Nems
Vietnamese spring rolls, typically deep-fried and filled with ground meat, vegetables, and noodles. Served with a dipping sauce.
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.
Cambodian cuisine has been heavily influenced by neighboring countries like Vietnam and Thailand, as well as by French colonialism. Nems, similar to Vietnamese spring rolls, reflect this influence, adapting regional ingredients and techniques to create a distinct Cambodian version.
Nems are a popular dish in Cambodia, often served during celebrations, family gatherings, and special occasions. They represent hospitality and are shared as a symbol of togetherness.
Celebratory Food
Nems are frequently prepared and enjoyed during festivals like Khmer New Year and weddings, reflecting their importance in Cambodian celebrations.
Family Recipe Tradition
Many Cambodian families have their own unique recipes for nems, passed down through generations, making each version slightly different and special.
Communal Eating
Nems are often served as part of a larger spread of dishes, encouraging communal eating and sharing among family and friends.
Nems offer a balance of savory, sweet, and herbaceous flavors, often enhanced by a tangy dipping sauce.
The filling typically includes ground pork, shrimp, glass noodles, carrots, mushrooms, and bean sprouts, seasoned with fish sauce, garlic, and pepper. Fresh herbs like mint and basil add aromatic complexity. The crispy rice paper wrapper provides a textural contrast. The dipping sauce, usually a sweet and sour fish sauce-based sauce, balances the richness of the filling.
Rice Paper Hydration
Dip the rice paper in warm water for just a few seconds until it's pliable but not too soft. Over-soaked rice paper will tear easily.
Filling Preparation
Ensure the filling ingredients are finely chopped and well-seasoned for a balanced flavor in each bite.
Crispy Wrapper
Fry the nems in hot oil until golden brown and crispy, turning them occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Dipping Sauce Matters
The dipping sauce is crucial! Experiment with different ratios of fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, garlic, and chili to find your perfect balance.
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