Ingredients

2 tablespoons soy sauce
4 cloves garlic , minced , or more to taste
2 teaspoons Chinese five-spice powder
2 teaspoons white sugar
1 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon chicken bouillon granules
1 1/2 pounds pork tenderloin , cut into cubes
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 tablespoons water
2 pounds fresh thick Vietnamese-style rice noodles
2 cups bean sprouts
1 cup torn lettuce leaves
1 bunch green onions , chopped
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
1/4 cup crispy chow mein noodles , or more to taste
Cao Lau is a famous dish from the central Vietnamese city of Hoi An. Legend has it that the dish dates back to the 17th century when it was prepared by Chinese traders who settled in the region. It is a unique dish that combines influences from different cultures, including the Japanese soba noodles, the Chinese five-spice powder, and the Vietnamese herbs and vegetables. Cao Lau is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a light lunch, dinner, or even breakfast. It is traditionally served with fresh herbs, bean sprouts, and crispy chow mein noodles, making it a delicious and nutritious meal that can be enjoyed by everyone in the family.

Instructions

1.In a large bowl, mix together soy sauce, garlic, Chinese five-spice powder, white sugar, paprika, and chicken bouillon granules.
2.Add pork cubes into the bowl and mix well.
3.In a pan, heat vegetable oil and add the mixture. Cook until the pork turns brown.
4.Add 2 tablespoons of water and cook for 2-3 minutes.
5.Boil the fresh thick Vietnamese-style rice noodles for 3-4 minutes.
6.In a serving bowl, add cooked noodles, bean sprouts, lettuce leaves, green onions, fresh basil leaves, and fresh cilantro leaves. Mix well.
7.Add the pork on top and sprinkle the crispy chow mein noodles over it. Serve hot.

PROS

Cao Lau is a flavorful, healthy, and balanced meal.

It is high in proteins, fibers, and essential vitamins and minerals like Vitamin B-12, Vitamin D, and iron.

The ingredients used in this recipe have immense health benefits, including improving digestion and boosting immunity.

The recipe is easy to make and can be customized with your favorite vegetables.

CONS

This recipe can be high in sodium if not prepared with low-sodium soy sauce or chicken bouillon granules.

It requires many ingredients that may not be easily available in every pantry or grocery store.

The preparation may take some time, especially if the fresh thick Vietnamese-style rice noodles are not readily available.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Cao Lau is a nutritious and delicious Vietnamese dish that combines fresh vegetables, protein, and carbs in one meal.
It is a great source of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals like Vitamin B-12, Vitamin D, and iron.
The garlic and herbs used in the recipe have numerous health benefits, including improving digestion, boosting immunity, and promoting heart health.
Bean sprouts are known to reduce cholesterol, blood sugar, and inflammation while helping to maintain a healthy weight. The fresh vegetables used in the recipe provide antioxidants that can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases like cancer and heart disease.

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