Com Tam (Broken Rice)
Broken rice served with grilled pork chop, shredded pork skin, and a fried egg.
Nutrition Facts
* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
Com Tam, meaning 'broken rice,' originated as a resourceful way for farmers to utilize fragmented rice grains, a byproduct of the milling process. Initially a peasant dish, it gradually gained popularity and evolved into a beloved street food and restaurant staple throughout Vietnam, particularly in the South.
Com Tam is deeply ingrained in Vietnamese food culture, representing resourcefulness, communal eating, and the vibrant street food scene.
Street Food Staple
Com Tam is predominantly found as a popular street food, sold from carts and small eateries, especially during breakfast and lunch hours. It's a quick, affordable, and satisfying meal for many Vietnamese people.
Regional Variations
While the core components remain the same, regional variations exist in the specific marinade for the pork chop, the type of meatloaf, and the composition of the pickled vegetables and dipping sauce. These variations reflect local culinary preferences.
Communal Aspect
Although often eaten individually, Com Tam represents a shared culinary heritage and is often enjoyed in a casual setting, fostering a sense of community.
Com Tam boasts a delightful combination of savory, sweet, and umami flavors, enhanced by textures ranging from the soft rice to the crisp grilled pork.
The key flavors derive from the grilled pork chop (suon nuong), which is marinated in a sweet and savory sauce often containing fish sauce, sugar, garlic, and soy sauce. Shredded pork skin (bi) adds a unique textural element and subtle pork flavor. Meatloaf (cha trung) provides a rich, eggy taste. The accompanying nuoc cham dipping sauce, a blend of fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, and chili, offers a bright and tangy counterpoint to the richer components. Pickled vegetables provide a sour and crunchy element. The broken rice itself has a slightly different texture and flavor compared to whole grain rice.
Ordering Customizations
Don't hesitate to customize your order! You can ask for extra grilled pork, a larger portion of meatloaf, or specific pickled vegetables. Many vendors are accommodating to individual preferences.
Sauce Usage
Pour the nuoc cham liberally over the rice and other components. The sauce is essential for binding the flavors together and adding moisture.
Rice Quality
The best Com Tam uses freshly steamed broken rice. The grains should be slightly sticky but not mushy, with a distinct aroma.
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