The Best Vietnamese Seafood for Summer Barbecues

As the summer heat rolls in, there's nothing quite like a vibrant barbecue featuring fresh and flavorful seafood. Vietnamese cuisine offers a fantastic array of seafood dishes that are perfect for outdoor grilling. From juicy shrimp to succulent fish, these options will elevate your summer barbecues and impress your guests.

1. Grilled Shrimp with Tamarind Sauce

Grilled shrimp are a classic addition to any summer barbecue. In Vietnamese cuisine, they're often marinated in a tangy tamarind sauce that enhances their natural sweetness. To make this dish, simply marinate large shrimp in a mixture of tamarind paste, sugar, garlic, and fish sauce for about 30 minutes. Skewer them on sticks and grill until they're perfectly charred and juicy. Serve with fresh lime wedges for an extra burst of flavor.

2. BBQ Fish with Ginger and Scallions

Barbecuing whole fish is a popular practice in Vietnam, and it's a show-stopping dish for any summer gathering. A whole fish, like tilapia or snapper, can be stuffed with a blend of ginger, scallions, and garlic. Season the outside with salt and pepper, then wrap it in banana leaves for grilling. This technique helps to keep the fish moist and infuses it with the aromatic flavors of the herbs. Grill until the skin is crispy and the flesh is flaky.

3. Vietnamese Grilled Squid

Grilled squid, or mực nướng, makes for a delightful barbecue dish. When prepared right, it offers a unique smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with dipping sauces. For this dish, marinate cleaned squid in a blend of fish sauce, lime juice, garlic, and chili. After marinating, grill over high heat for just a few minutes on each side, ensuring it doesn’t become rubbery. Serve with a spicy dipping sauce for an added kick.

4. Lemongrass Beef Skewers

While not seafood, no Vietnamese barbecue is complete without marinated beef skewers. Use minced beef mixed with chopped lemongrass, garlic, and fish sauce. Skewer the mixture and grill until charred and delicious. These skewers are a perfect complement to the seafood offerings and will add a variety of flavors to your summer feast.

5. Seafood Spring Rolls

For a refreshing appetizer, consider making seafood spring rolls. Fill rice paper wrappers with a mix of cooked shrimp, crab meat, and fresh vegetables like lettuce, mint, and cilantro. Serve with a homemade peanut or hoisin dipping sauce. These light and flavorful rolls are perfect for a hot summer day and will have your guests coming back for more.

6. Grilled Clams with Garlic Butter

Grilled clams are another delicious and easy option for summer barbecues. Simply clean them and place them on the grill until they open. Once opened, brush with a mixture of butter, garlic, and herbs, then return them to the grill for an added smoky flavor. The combination of garlic and butter with the briny taste of the clams creates an irresistible treat.

Conclusion

This summer, bring the vibrant flavors of Vietnam to your backyard barbecue with these seafood dishes. Whether you're grilling shrimp, fish, or clams, each option is sure to delight your guests while providing a taste of coastal Vietnam. So fire up the grill, gather your friends, and enjoy a feast filled with fresh seafood and aromatic herbs!