Vietnamese sweat chili shrimp salad recipes

## 1. The "Gỏi Tôm" (Traditional Shredded Salad)

This is the classic version often served at Vietnamese celebrations. It’s crunchy, colorful, and refreshing.

### **The Shrimp & Glaze**

* **The Shrimp:** 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined).

* **The Glaze:** Sauté the shrimp in a hot pan with 2 tbsp **Vietnamese Sweet Chili Sauce**, a splash of fish sauce, and a squeeze of lime until pink and caramelized.

### **The Salad Base**

* **Vegetables:** Shredded green cabbage, julienned carrots, and thinly sliced red bell peppers.

* **The Fruit (The Secret):** Freshly sliced **green mango or papaya** (adds a tart, firm crunch).

* **The Herbs:** Vietnamese coriander (Rau Răm), mint, and Thai basil.

* **Toppings:** Crushed roasted peanuts and **shrimp crackers** (bánh phồng tôm) on the side for scooping.

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## 2. The Sweet Chili "Vermicelli Bliss" Bowl

A more substantial version that works perfectly as a main course lunch.

### **The Build**

* **Base:** Chilled rice vermicelli noodles.

* **Veggies:** Sliced cucumbers, bean sprouts, and pickled radish.

* **The Protein:** Sweet chili glazed shrimp, served warm over the cold noodles.

* **The Dressing:** A lightened version of the sweet chili sauce mixed with a bit of rice vinegar and ginger.

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## Chef’s Secrets for Plating Art

* **The Herb Crown:** Don't just mix the herbs in. Save the most beautiful sprigs of mint and basil to place right on top of the shrimp for a pop of fresh green.

* **The Drip Effect:** When plating, drizzle the extra sweet chili glaze from the pan over the shrimp at the very end so it glistens under the light.

* **Shrimp Placement:** Place the shrimp in a circular pattern or "stack" them in the center to give the dish height.

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### Flavor Profile Overview

| Element | Traditional Shredded | Vermicelli Bowl |

| --- | --- | --- |

| **Main Texture** | Ultra-Crunchy | Soft & Slurpable |

| **Sweetness** | High (Mango/Papaya) | Balanced (Noodles) |

| **Spicy Level** | Zesty & Sharp | Mild & Sweet |

| **Vibe** | Light & Festive | Hearty & Satisfying |