This versatile Vietnamese-style marinade packs a powerful punch of umami and aromatics into a simple mixture. By combining the salty depth of nuoc mam with fresh minced shallots and crushed garlic, you create a flavorful base that tenderizes and seasons ingredients perfectly. The touch of sugar balances the saltiness, while peanut oil adds richness and helps carry the flavors into the food. It is ideal for quickly marinating pork chops, chicken thighs, or firm white fish before grilling or pan-searing. This sauce comes together in minutes, making it a reliable weeknight staple that elevates ordinary proteins into restaurant-quality dishes with minimal effort.
Tangy Vietnamese-Style Marinade
Description
This versatile Vietnamese-style marinade packs a powerful punch of umami and aromatics into a simple mixture. By combining the salty depth of nuoc mam with fresh minced shallots and crushed garlic, you create a flavorful base that tenderizes and seasons ingredients perfectly. The touch of sugar balances the saltiness, while peanut oil adds richness and helps carry the flavors into the food. It is ideal for quickly marinating pork chops, chicken thighs, or firm white fish before grilling or pan-searing. This sauce comes together in minutes, making it a reliable weeknight staple that elevates ordinary proteins into restaurant-quality dishes with minimal effort.Ingredients
Directions
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In a small bowl, combine the crushed garlic cloves and minced shallots.
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Add the peanut oil, nuoc mam sauce, sugar, bouillon powder, and freshly ground pepper to the bowl.
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Whisk vigorously until the sugar and bouillon powder are completely dissolved and the mixture is emulsified.
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Use immediately to marinate meat or seafood, or store in an airtight container for later use.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 1
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 145.4kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 15.0g24%
- Saturated Fat 2.7g14%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 18.0mg1%
- Total Carbohydrate 3.2g2%
- Dietary Fiber 0.1g1%
- Sugars 3.0g
- Protein 0.1g1%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
This marinade yields approximately 3/4 cup.
Store any unused marinade in a sealed jar in the refrigerator for up to one week. The flavors will meld and improve over time.
For a vegan version, ensure your bouillon powder is mushroom-based or vegetable-based, and verify that your nuoc mam is vegan-friendly (some brands use fish bones in processing).
If the mixture separates, simply whisk it again before using.
