How to Make Mezes at Home Inspired by Vietnam

Mezes, a selection of small dishes served as appetizers, are a delightful way to experience the rich flavors of Vietnamese cuisine. Making mezes at home not only introduces you to unique flavors but also allows you to engage with the art of cooking. Here’s how to create delicious Vietnamese-inspired mezes that will impress your family and friends.

1. Fresh Vegetable Spring Rolls

Fresh vegetable spring rolls, also known as Gỏi cuốn, are a colorful and healthy choice for a Vietnamese meze. To make them, gather ingredients such as rice paper, fresh herbs (mint, cilantro, basil), lettuce, and julienned vegetables (carrots, cucumber, bell peppers).

Instructions:

• Soak rice paper in warm water for about 15-30 seconds until it softens.
• Lay the rice paper on a flat surface and place a few lettuce leaves, herbs, and vegetables in the center.
• Fold the sides over the filling and roll tightly from the bottom up.
• Serve with a side of hoisin or peanut sauce for dipping.

2. Vietnamese Chicken Salad (Gỏi Gà)

This refreshing chicken salad is a perfect addition to your meze spread. It combines shredded chicken with fresh herbs and a tangy dressing.

Ingredients:

• Shredded cooked chicken
• Shredded cabbage
• Carrots, grated
• Fresh herbs (mint, cilantro)
• Chili pepper, sliced
• Fish sauce, lime juice, and sugar for dressing

Instructions:

• In a large bowl, combine the chicken, cabbage, carrots, herbs, and chili pepper.
• In a separate bowl, mix fish sauce, lime juice, and sugar to create the dressing.
• Toss the salad with the dressing just before serving to maintain freshness.

3. Baked Pork Meatballs (Nem Nướng)

These flavorful meatballs are surprisingly easy to make and are perfect for sharing. Ground pork mixed with spices and herbs creates a savory bite-sized treat.

Ingredients:

• Ground pork
• Garlic, minced
• Shallots, minced
• Fish sauce
• Sugar
• Black pepper

Instructions:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• In a bowl, combine ground pork, minced garlic, shallots, fish sauce, sugar, and black pepper.
• Form small meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
• Serve with a dipping sauce made from vinegar, garlic, and chili.

4. Fried Tofu with Sweet Chili Sauce

This simple yet delicious dish will be a hit among your mezes. Tofu is a staple in Vietnamese cuisine and is perfect for any gathering.

Ingredients:

• Firm tofu, cubed
• Vegetable oil for frying
• Sweet chili sauce

Instructions:

• Heat oil in a pan over medium heat and fry the tofu cubes until golden brown and crispy.
• Drain excess oil on paper towels.
• Serve hot with sweet chili sauce for dipping.

5. Coconut Rice Cakes (Bánh Bò Nước Dừa)

For a sweet end to your Vietnamese mezes, try making these delightful coconut rice cakes.

Ingredients:

• Rice flour
• Coconut milk
• Sugar
• Yeast
• Salt

Instructions: