Vietnamese-Inspired Cá Kho Tàu Protein Clay Pot Bowls with Crispy Rice Paper

Pinterest trends show massive growth for Vietnamese-inspired, texture-forward protein bowls featuring unique cooking methods like clay pot braising. This recipe modernizes the classic Cá Kho Tàu (caramel fish) into a quick, high-protein power bowl. The crispy rice paper 'crust' adds an irresistible crunchy element trending on foodie boards right now. It's a complete meal that's surprisingly simple to make at home.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes

Total Time 35 minutes

Servings 4 servings

Ingredients

• 1 lb cod fillets, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 tbsp fish sauce
• 3 tbsp coconut sugar
• 1 tbsp minced ginger
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 Thai chili peppers, sliced (optional)
• 1 shallot, thinly sliced
• 4 oz shiitake mushrooms, stemmed & sliced
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 1 tbsp avocado oil
• 4 sheets rice paper (22cm)
• 1 cup cooked jasmine rice
• 1 cup bean sprouts
• Fresh cilantro & mint for garnish
• Lime wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Marinate cod pieces in fish sauce, coconut sugar, ginger, and garlic for 10 minutes.
2. Heat avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shallot and shiitake mushrooms, sauté until golden (4-5 minutes).
3. Push veggies to one side. Add marinated fish and caramel liquid to the skillet. Cook for 2 minutes without stirring to develop color.
4. Gently flip fish pieces. Add Thai chilies if using. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5-6 minutes until sauce thickens.
5. While fish cooks, prepare crispy rice paper: brush each sheet lightly with water using your fingers, just enough to make pliable but not soggy.
6. Heat a separate non-stick pan over medium heat. Add rice paper sheets one at a time, cooking for 45-60 seconds per side until bubbled and crispy.
7. Break crispy rice paper into large shards. Divide cooked jasmine rice among bowls.
8. Top rice with bean sprouts, caramel fish & mushrooms, and crispy rice paper shards.
9. Garnish generously with green onions, cilantro, mint, and lime wedges.
10. Serve immediately, drizzling extra caramel sauce from the pan over the bowls.

Chef's Note

For ultra-crispy rice paper, brush with just a drop of water—too much will make it gummy. The key is a hot pan and minimal moisture.

Make-Ahead Tips

Marinate fish up to 2 hours ahead. Crispy rice paper is best made fresh. Keep components separate until assembly.

Substitutions

Use salmon or shrimp instead of cod. Swap coconut sugar with brown sugar. Oyster mushrooms work instead of shiitake.