Sài Gòn Tứ Quý

About Sài Gòn Tứ Quý

Sài Gòn Tứ Quý is a vibrant and flavorful dish originating from the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City, known as Sài Gòn. This dish is a harmonious combination of fresh ingredients, uniquely seasoned meats, and robust flavors that celebrate the culinary diversity of Vietnam. Often enjoyed during special occasions, this dish symbolizes prosperity and abundance, featuring four main components representing the four seasons.

The historical roots of Sài Gòn Tứ Quý can be traced back to the fusion of French and Vietnamese cuisines during the colonial period, where local chefs began to experiment with herbs, meats, and sauces, creating iconic dishes such as this one.

Ingredients

• Shrimp - 500g
• Chicken thighs - 4 pieces
• Pork belly - 300g
• Tofu - 200g
• Scallions - 2 stalks
• Garlic - 4 cloves
• Ginger - 2 inches
• Fish sauce - 4 tablespoons
• Soy sauce - 2 tablespoons
• Palm sugar - 2 tablespoons
• Lemongrass - 2 stalks
• Lime leaves - 5 leaves
• Red chilies - 3 pieces
• Mint - A handful
• Basil - A handful
• Rice - 2 cups
• Water - 2 1/2 cups
• Peanuts - 50g
• Cooking oil - 3 tablespoons

Preparation

Step 1: Marinade the Meats

Begin by preparing the shrimp, chicken thighs, and pork belly. In a large bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of fish sauce, 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, and 1 tablespoon of palm sugar. Finely chop the garlic and ginger, and add to the mixture. Add sliced lemongrass, roughly chopped lime leaves, and thinly sliced red chilies to enhance the aroma and flavor.

Marinate the shrimp, chicken thighs, and pork belly in this mixture for at least 1 hour. This will ensure the flavors deeply infuse into the meats, providing a rich and savory taste that defines the dish.

Step 2: Prepare the Tofu

While the meats are marinating, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes. In a shallow dish, mix 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and 1 tablespoon of fish sauce. Toss the tofu cubes in this mixture and let them sit for 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Heat 1 tablespoon of cooking oil in a pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the marinated tofu cubes and fry them until they are lightly golden and crisp on the outside. Remove from heat and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Cooking Process

Step 1: Cook the Meats

In a large wok or skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of cooking oil over medium-high heat. Add the marinated pork belly first, as it takes longer to cook. Sauté until the meat is browned and starting to crisp, about 8-10 minutes. Next, add the chicken thighs and continue cooking until they are fully cooked and nicely browned, approximately 7 minutes.

Add the shrimp last, since they cook quickly. Stir-fry the shrimp until they are pink and opaque, about 4 minutes. Ensure all components are cooked through, and the flavors have melded together.

Step 2: Prepare the Rice

Rinse the rice under cold water to remove excess starch. In a rice cooker or saucepan, combine the rinsed rice with 2 1/2 cups of water. Cook according to your rice cocker instructions, or until the rice is fluffy and tender.

Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork and keep warm until ready to serve.

Step 3: Assemble and Serve

To assemble Sài Gòn Tứ Quý, start by portioning the fragrant rice onto serving plates. Arrange a portion of the cooked pork belly, chicken thighs, and shrimp next to the rice. Add the fried tofu on the side. Garnish each plate with chopped scallions, mint, and basil. Sprinkle a handful of crunchy peanuts on top for added texture.

Time and Serving Suggestions

The entire process should take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours from preparation to serving. You can easily set a cooking timer to help manage the time efficiently.

Enjoy Sài Gòn Tứ Quý with family or friends during festive gatherings. Pair this delightful dish with a tangy papaya salad or a refreshing cucumber and carrot side dish to balance the flavors. A glass of chilled Vietnamese iced tea or a cold beer also complements the dish wonderfully.