Chả lụa

Chả lụa is a traditional Vietnamese pork sausage, known for its smooth texture and delightful flavor, often enjoyed as a healthy appetizer. This version is lower in fat and uses fresh herbs to enhance its taste and nutritional profile.

Ingredients

• Lean pork shoulder - 300 grams
• Fish sauce - 2 tablespoons
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Sugar - 1 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon
• Tapioca starch - 2 tablespoons
• Ice water - 50 ml
• Fresh cilantro - 2 tablespoons, chopped
• Banana leaves - for wrapping (optional)

Steps

1. Start by cutting the lean pork shoulder into small chunks and place them in a food processor.
2. Add fish sauce, minced garlic, sugar, black pepper, and tapioca starch to the pork in the food processor.
3. Blend until the mixture is smooth, adding ice water gradually to achieve a paste-like consistency.
4. Fold in the chopped cilantro gently into the mixture.
5. If using banana leaves, briefly pass them over an open flame to make them pliable.
6. Spoon the mixture onto a sheet of banana leaf, shape it into a log, and wrap tightly, securing the ends.
7. Repeat the wrapping process with the remaining mixture.
8. Bring a pot of water to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and gently place the wrapped logs in the pot.
9. Steam for about 30-40 minutes, ensuring the logs are cooked through.
10. Remove from water, let them cool slightly, then unwrap and slice into rounds for serving.

Nutrition

• Calories: 180
• Protein: 25 g
• Carbs: 6 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 560 mg
• Cholesterol: 70 mg
• Total Fat: 6 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
• Water: 0.05 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in protein, supporting muscle growth and repair.
• Contains essential vitamins and minerals from fresh herbs.

Tags