Vietnamese Lemongrass Meatballs

01Method

1. 1

   Heat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.

2. 2

   In a large bowl, mix together the ground pork, panko crumbs, shallot, lemongrass paste, mint, fish sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and salt. Portion the mixture into meatballs using a small scoop and arrange them on the prepared baking sheet.

3. 3

   Bake until the meatballs are fully cooked through with no pink remaining in the center, about 15 minutes.

4. 4

   While the meatballs bake, stir together the water, fish sauce, lime juice, white sugar, rice vinegar, Thai chile, and garlic in a small bowl to make the dipping sauce.

5. 5

   Move an oven rack to about 6 inches below the broiler element and switch the oven to broil.

6. 6

   Broil the meatballs for about 2 minutes until the tops are lightly browned and slightly crisp. Serve alongside the dipping sauce.