Pronunciation: [nˈɛmz] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "Nems" is unusual, as it does not follow typical English spelling rules. According to the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA), "Nems" is pronounced as /nɛmz/, with a short "e" sound followed by the letter "m" and ending with a "z" sound. The origin of the word and its spelling is unclear, but it may be related to the Vietnamese dish "nem," which is a type of spring roll.
Nems is a noun that refers to a type of Vietnamese dish popular in Southeast Asian cuisine. It is also known as "spring rolls" or "fresh rolls" in English. The term "nems" is the French pronunciation of the Vietnamese word "nem", which means "a roll".
Nems are made by filling a thin rice paper roll with various ingredients, typically including cooked or raw vegetables, rice noodles, fresh herbs like mint and cilantro, and a protein such as shrimp, chicken, or pork. The filling is neatly wrapped in the rice paper, resulting in a tubular or cylindrical shape. The rolls are usually served fresh and uncooked, although they may be deep-fried in some variations.
The word "nems" can also encompass different variations of this dish, as its fillings and ingredients can vary depending on regional and personal preferences. In addition to the specific ingredients, the flavor is often enhanced by dipping the nems into a savory sauce, such as nuoc cham or hoisin sauce.
Nems are commonly enjoyed as appetizers or snacks, and they are known for their light and refreshing taste. They offer a delightful combination of textures, with the crispness of the vegetables and the softness of the rice paper. Nems are favored for their versatility, allowing for endless possibilities when it comes to variations and experimentation with fillings.
The word "Nems" is derived from the Vietnamese term "nem" (pronounced like "nuhm"). "Nem" in Vietnamese refers to a type of spring roll that is typically filled with minced pork or shrimp and various vegetables, wrapped in rice paper, and then deep-fried until crispy. It is a popular dish in Vietnamese cuisine. The word "Nems" likely originated from the French culinary influence in Vietnam during the colonial period. Over time, the term "nem" was adapted and transformed into "Nems" to accommodate the French phonetic system. Today, "Nems" is commonly used to refer to these Vietnamese-style spring rolls in many French-speaking regions.
