Vietnamese Apple and Shrimp Sauce

Mam nem is certainly one of the more exotic dipping sauces in the Vietnamese culinary repertoire. Despite the odd-sounding combination of flavors—shrimp and apple—it’s extremely tasty and easy to make. I first sampled this sauce in Saigon, where it was made with pureed pineapple. I like the no-fuss sweetness of applesauce. Serve mam nem with any sort of grilled fish or pork.