Step 1

For the dressing, place the sugar, fish sauce, water and vinegar in a small saucepan over high heat. Simmer for 2 minutes or until sugar dissolves.

Step 2

De-seed and finely chop chilli. Add to the saucepan with the garlic and lime juice. Stir to combine. Transfer mixture into 4 small individual sauce bowls.

Step 3

For the patties, combine pork, garlic, egg, shallot, chopped mint, fish sauce and pepper in a bowl. Roll into 16 small balls. Gently pat to flatten into patties.

Step 4

Heat the oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Cook the patties in 2 batches for 3 minutes on each side or until golden and cooked through.

Step 5

Meanwhile, place vermicelli in a heatproof bowl. Cover with boiling water and stand for 2 minutes or until tender. Drain well.

Step 6

Arrange the noodles, mint leaves, coriander, bean sprouts and patties on a serving platter. Divide the dressing among 4 individual serving bowls.