Nems
Fried spring rolls
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.
THE CUP Rice & Noodle
Nems, also known as Cha Gio in Southern Vietnam, have evolved over centuries, likely influenced by Chinese spring roll traditions. The use of rice paper wrappers is a distinctly Vietnamese innovation, differentiating them from wheat-based spring rolls found elsewhere in Asia. The dish reflects Vietnam's agricultural abundance and culinary creativity.
Nems hold a special place in Vietnamese cuisine, often served during festive occasions and family gatherings, symbolizing prosperity and good fortune.
Tet Holiday Tradition
Nems are an essential dish during Tet (Vietnamese Lunar New Year), representing a time of celebration, family reunion, and hope for the coming year. Preparing nems together is a cherished family activity.
Family Gatherings
Nems are frequently served at family meals and celebrations, symbolizing togetherness and hospitality. They are a delicious and easily shareable dish that brings people together.
Regional Variations
While universally recognized, the ingredients and preparation methods for nems can vary slightly between different regions of Vietnam, reflecting local culinary preferences and available ingredients.
Nems offer a delightful combination of savory, umami, and aromatic flavors, balanced by a crispy exterior and fresh herbs served alongside.
The filling typically consists of ground pork (or sometimes chicken, shrimp, or crab), finely chopped vegetables like carrots, wood ear mushrooms, bean sprouts, and glass noodles. Fish sauce (nuoc mam) provides a salty umami base, while onions, garlic, and sometimes shallots contribute aromatic depth. Black pepper is a common seasoning. The rice paper wrapper, when fried, provides a delicate crispness.
Rice Paper Preparation
Moisten the rice paper wrappers evenly with water – too much will make them sticky and prone to tearing, too little and they won't soften properly. A damp cloth or shallow dish of water works well.
Filling Consistency
Ensure the filling is not too wet, as this can lead to soggy nems. Squeeze out excess moisture from the vegetables if necessary.
Frying Temperature
Maintain a consistent frying temperature (around 325-350°F or 160-175°C) to ensure even cooking and crispy results. Too low and the nems will absorb too much oil; too high and they will burn.
Double Frying Technique
For extra crispiness, consider double-frying the nems. Fry them once at a lower temperature to cook them through, then a second time at a slightly higher temperature to achieve a golden-brown and extra-crispy exterior.
Serving and Dipping Sauce
Serve nems immediately after frying with a side of nuoc cham (Vietnamese dipping sauce) – a blend of fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, water, and chili peppers. Fresh herbs like mint, cilantro, and lettuce leaves are also essential for wrapping and enhancing the flavor.
Explore additional Asian dishes and restaurants
Explore AsianDiscover top dining spots and culinary experiences in Montpellier.
Explore MontpellierLearn more about the food culture, restaurant scene, and culinary heritage of France.
Explore France