Vietnamese Lemongrass Pork Wraps

Instructions

1. Prepare the marinade
   In a large bowl, combine the minced lemongrass, garlic, fish sauce, brown sugar, and black pepper. Mix well until the sugar is dissolved and the ingredients are fully incorporated.
2. Marinate the pork
   Add the ground pork to the bowl with the marinade. Using your hands or a spoon, mix thoroughly to ensure the pork is evenly coated with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
3. Cook the pork mixture
   Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated pork mixture and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until the pork is browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
4. Prepare the dipping sauce
   While the pork is cooking, make the dipping sauce by combining water, fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, minced garlic, and sliced chili (if using) in a small bowl. Stir until the sugar is dissolved. Adjust the taste to your preference by adding more lime juice, sugar, or fish sauce.
5. Prepare the vegetables
   Arrange the lettuce leaves, julienned cucumber, julienned carrot, and fresh herbs on a serving platter. Place the crushed peanuts in a small bowl for garnishing.
6. Assemble the wraps
   To serve, let each person take a lettuce leaf, add a spoonful of the cooked lemongrass pork, top with vegetables and herbs, sprinkle with crushed peanuts, and drizzle with the dipping sauce. Fold the lettuce around the filling and enjoy immediately.