Chao Tom (Vietnamese Grilled Shrimp on Sugarcane)

Chao Tom (Vietnamese Grilled Shrimp on Sugarcane)

Chao Tom is a classic Vietnamese dish that effortlessly combines the sweetness of fresh shrimp with the unique, caramel-like flavor of grilled sugarcane. This dish has been enjoyed by locals and tourists alike since the royal era in the central Vietnamese city of Hue. The shrimp is carefully ground and seasoned, then expertly wrapped around sugarcane skewers, before being grilled to a perfect char. Served with fresh herbs, crisp lettuce, and tangy dipping sauce all wrapped in delicate rice paper, each bite of Chao Tom is a burst of exotic flavors that will transport you to the vibrant streets of Vietnam.

Servings: 4

Ingredients

  • Shrimp (500g, peeled and deveined)
  • Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
  • Fish sauce (2 tablespoons)
  • Sugar (1 teaspoon)
  • Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon)
  • Cornstarch (2 tablespoons)
  • Sugarcane skewers (10-12)
  • Lettuce leaves (as needed)
  • Rice paper (as needed)
  • Fresh herbs (mint, cilantro, basil) (as needed)
  • Dipping sauce (Nuoc Cham) (as needed)
  • For Nuoc Cham Dipping Sauce: Lime (1, juiced)
  • For Nuoc Cham Dipping Sauce: Fish sauce (2 tablespoons)
  • For Nuoc Cham Dipping Sauce: Sugar (2 tablespoons)
  • For Nuoc Cham Dipping Sauce: Garlic (1 clove, minced)
  • For Nuoc Cham Dipping Sauce: Red chili (1, chopped)

Instructions

  1. In a food processor, blend the shrimp, garlic, fish sauce, sugar, black pepper, and cornstarch until well combined.
  2. Take a small portion of the shrimp mixture and wrap it around a sugarcane skewer, forming a cylindrical shape. Repeat this step until all the shrimp mixture is used.
  3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
  4. Grill the shrimp skewers for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they turn opaque and are slightly charred. Be sure to turn them frequently to prevent burning.
  5. While the shrimp skewers are cooking, prepare the Nuoc Cham dipping sauce. In a bowl, combine lime juice, fish sauce, sugar, minced garlic, and chopped red chili. Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved.
  6. To serve, place a lettuce leaf on a rice paper sheet. Add a grilled shrimp skewer, a handful of fresh herbs, and then roll it up tightly.
  7. Serve the rolls with the Nuoc Cham dipping sauce on the side. Enjoy this taste of Vietnam's culinary heritage!

Dietary Information

Servings: 4 • Dish Type: Main Course • Prep Time: 20 minutes • Cook Time: 10 minutes • Calories: 250 • Fat: 1g • Carbs: 30g • Protein: 25g • Sodium: 900mg • Sugar: 5g