chạo tôm – vietnamese shrimp on sugarcane

Chạo Tôm is a Vietnamese appetizer made by wrapping a seasoned shrimp-and-pork paste around sugarcane sticks, then steaming and pan-frying the skewers until springy, juicy, and golden. The sugarcane adds a delicate sweetness, while the chilled shrimp paste creates the dish’s characteristic elastic texture. Serve Chạo Tôm hot with bánh hỏi, rice paper, lettuce, cucumber, Vietnamese herbs, and a tangy fish sauce dipping sauce. This recipe makes approximately 8–10 skewers and takes about 2 hours 30 minutes, including 2 hours of chilling.