Nems (Fried Stuffed Pastries)
Description
These Nems are the ultimate Vietnamese comfort food, featuring a delicate, paper-thin wrapper filled with a savory mixture of ground pork, crab meat, mushrooms, and vermicelli noodles. The filling is seasoned with fresh aromatics and wrapped tightly before being deep-fried to a golden, shattering crisp. Each bite offers a delightful contrast between the crunchy exterior and the tender, juicy interior. They are perfect as an appetizer for parties or paired with a dipping sauce for a light meal. While traditional recipes often use store-bought rice paper wrappers, this version includes a homemade dough option for a unique pastry-like texture. Serve hot with nuoc cham for the authentic experience.Directions
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Sift the flour and 1/2 teaspoon of salt into a large mixing bowl.
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Cut the shortening into the flour mixture using a pastry blender or two knives until it resembles coarse crumbs.
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Beat the egg yolk with the water, then add to the flour mixture. Toss lightly until a cohesive ball of dough forms.
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Cover the dough and chill in the refrigerator for one hour.
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Finely chop the cooked pork, mushrooms, crab meat, vermicelli noodles, and hard-cooked egg together.
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Combine the chopped ingredients in a bowl with the remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt and black pepper, mixing well.
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On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to a thickness of 1/4 inch.
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Cut the dough into 6-inch circles using a round cutter or glass.
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Place a spoonful of the filling on one end of each dough circle.
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Fold the sides over the filling and roll up tightly like a jelly roll.
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Moisten the edges with egg white or water to seal the rolls securely.
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Heat the frying fat to 365°F (185°C).
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Fry 2-3 rolls at a time for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, turning occasionally.
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Remove from oil and drain on paper towels. Keep warm while frying the remaining rolls.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4 servings
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 855kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 42.1 gg65%
- Saturated Fat 13.8 gg69%
- Cholesterol 294 mgmg98%
- Sodium 9785 mgmg408%
- Total Carbohydrate 92.1 gg31%
- Dietary Fiber 3.2 gg13%
- Sugars 1.3 gg
- Protein 24.1 gg49%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
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