How to Make Vietnamese Fish and Shrimp Skewers

Vietnamese fish and shrimp skewers, known as "chả cá" and "mực nướng," are a delightful combination of flavors that will transport your taste buds to the bustling streets of Vietnam. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also packed with fresh ingredients that make it a healthy choice. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make these delicious skewers.

Ingredients

To create the perfect Vietnamese fish and shrimp skewers, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 lb of firm white fish (tilapia or catfish work well)
1 lb of large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 tablespoon of fresh ginger, minced
3 tablespoons of fish sauce
1 tablespoon of sugar
2 tablespoons of lime juice
1 teaspoon of black pepper
Skewers (wooden or metal)
Fresh herbs for garnish (mint, cilantro, or Thai basil)

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Fish and Shrimp

In a large bowl, combine the minced garlic, ginger, fish sauce, sugar, lime juice, and black pepper. Mix well to create a marinade. Add the fish and shrimp to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover the bowl and let the mixture marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 2: Prepare the Skewers

If you are using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill. For metal skewers, you can proceed directly to the next step.

Step 3: Assemble the Skewers

Once marinated, remove the fish and shrimp from the refrigerator. Thread pieces of fish and shrimp alternately onto the skewers. Make sure to leave some space between each piece to allow even cooking.

Step 4: Grill the Skewers

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, and the fish is flaked and cooked through. Be sure to keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a minute. Serve the skewers warm, garnished with fresh herbs and accompanied by a dipping sauce of your choice, such as nuoc cham (a Vietnamese dipping sauce made with fish sauce, lime juice, garlic, and chili).

Tips for Perfect Skewers

For added flavor, consider adding sliced bell peppers, onions, or cherry tomatoes to the skewers.
Adjust the marinade ingredients according to your taste preference; feel free to add more garlic or lime for a tangier flavor.
These skewers can also be baked in the oven if grilling is not an option. Preheat your oven to 400°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Vietnamese fish and shrimp skewers are a vibrant and flavorful dish that can be served as an appetizer or main course. With their fresh ingredients and aromatic marinade, they are sure to impress family and friends alike. Enjoy the taste of Vietnam in the comfort of your home!