Ingredients

1 lb ham hock
6 stalks lemongrass , crushed and sliced thin
2 tablespoons nuoc nam
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon sea salt
2 teaspoons shrimp paste ( mam ruoc )
1 teaspoon black pepper
4 ounces boneless sirloin
4 ounces boneless pork loin
16 ounces rice noodles , cooked
1 cup bean sprouts
4 sprigs Thai holy basil ( regular basil ok )
4 sprigs of fresh mint
4 sprigs fresh cilantro
4 teaspoons sambal oelek or 4 teaspoons hot chili sauce
4 -8 fresh Thai red chili peppers ( optional )
1 lime , cut into quarters
Bun Bo Hue is a popular noodle soup in Vietnam, originating from the central city of Hue. This soup is known for its spicy and aromatic broth, which is made with lemongrass, shrimp paste, and fresh herbs. The noodles used in this dish are thicker than traditional pho noodles, and the dish is usually served with slices of beef, pork, and other meat toppings. Bun Bo Hue is a hearty and comforting meal that is perfect for warming up on cool evenings or when you need some extra comfort.

Instructions

1.In a large pot, place the ham hock, lemongrass, nuoc nam, sugar, sea salt, shrimp paste, and black pepper. Pour in 12 cups of water and bring to a boil. Skim off any foam that forms on top of the broth with a slotted spoon.
2.Reduce the heat to low. Simmer, partially covered, for 1.5 hours.
3.In a separate pot of boiling water, cook the sirloin and pork loin until just cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, slice the beef and pork into thin pieces and set aside.
4.Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions.
5.Assemble the soup bowls. Divide the cooked rice noodles among four bowls. Top each bowl with slices of beef, pork, and bean sprouts. Ladle the hot broth over the top of the noodles and meat.
6.Garnish each bowl with basil, mint, cilantro, sambal oelek, and fresh chili peppers, if desired. Serve the soup hot with quarters of lime to squeeze over each bowl.

PROS

Bun Bo Hue is a delicious and filling noodle soup that is perfect for cold weather or when you need a comforting meal.

The lemongrass and other fresh herbs in this soup add a bright and flavorful kick to every bite.

CONS

This soup can be time-consuming to make, and some ingredients may be harder to find depending on your location.
Additionally, the shrimp paste used in the recipe may not be to everyone’s taste.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Bun Bo Hue contains lots of fresh herbs and vegetables that are high in vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy meal option.
Additionally, the lemongrass in this soup has been linked to aiding digestion, reducing inflammation, and fighting infections.

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