Delicious Vietnamese Pork Noodle Bowl Recipe
Vietnamese cuisine is known for its fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and wholesome noodle dishes, all of which have gained popularity in world cuisine. Today, I’m excited to share with you this simple Vietnamese pork noodle bowl recipe that is easy to make, customizable and packed with flavor. If you’re a fan of authentic Vietnamese cuisine or just looking for a new flavorful and filling meal option, then you’re in for a treat.
This dish features the quintessential flavors of grilled pork (thịt nướng), vermicelli noodles (bún thịt nướng), fresh vegetables and herbs, and a delightful nuoc cham sauce. It’s the perfect combination of sweet and savory with refreshing lime juice, fresh basil leaves, tender pork slices, and noodles making it a comforting dish that adapts to your taste preferences.
As a chef specializing in Vietnamese and Asian cuisine, I believe in creating recipes that are approachable, use easy-to-find ingredients, and can be prepared by anyone regardless of their culinary expertise. This recipe does just that; it requires only a few simple steps to create an outstanding meal that you’ll love.
So put on your apron, grab your bowl and chopsticks, let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Are you looking to try out something new and flavorful? Then look no further than this simple Vietnamese Pork Noodle Bowl recipe. This dish is not only a staple of the traditional Vietnamese cuisine but also a delicious and nutritious meal for all to enjoy.
Why should you choose this recipe over other noodle bowl recipes out there? For starters, it is incredibly easy to make with readily available ingredients like fresh basil, lime, vermicelli noodles, and pork tenderloin. What’s more, it can be personalized to your liking by adjusting the ingredients or making substitutions.
One of the reasons why you’ll love this recipe is that it features pork tenderloin instead of pork shoulder, which is typically used in other Vietnamese pork noodle bowl recipes. Pork tenderloin is leaner and healthier, without compromising the flavor of the dish. It is also perfect because you can cut it into thin slices or cubes which cook up quickly and provide that perfect char texture to the grilled meat.
Another reason why this should be on your menu tonight is that it includes nuoc cham – a savory Vietnamese dipping sauce made with fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, chili pepper flakes as well as garlic and ginger for depth of flavor. The dressing has an umami taste that ties everything together in one bowl quintessential to enjoying all the flavors.
Lastly, this recipe can be paired with your favorite salads or spring rolls for a complete meal bringing restaurant quality into your own kitchen. You do not have to go out every time you crave some authentic Vietnamese dish!
So, if you want something delicious and different on your dinner table, then give this recipe a try. Your taste buds will thank you for being adventurous!
Ingredient List
The ingredient list for this simple Vietnamese pork noodle bowl recipe may seem long, but don’t be intimidated! You probably already have many of these items in your pantry, and the rest can be easily found at your local grocery store or Asian market. These ingredients are key to achieving the authentic Vietnamese flavors that make this dish so special. Here is what you will need:
For the pork:
- 1 pound pork tenderloin, trimmed and cut into 1/4 inch slices
- 1 tablespoon canola oil
- 1 tablespoon reduced sodium soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons brown sugar
- 1 clove garlic, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
For the noodles:
- 12 ounces rice vermicelli noodles
- 4 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
For the nuoc cham dressing:
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 clove garlic, finely diced
- 1 red chili, seeded and finely chopped (optional)
For the toppings:
- 4 cups coleslaw mix
- 1 red onion, thinly sliced
- Fresh basil or lime leaves, chopped or whole, for garnish
Most of these ingredients should be easy to find in your local grocery store. Don’t worry if you’re not familiar with some of them yet – the instructions will explain how to use each one properly. Once you have all the ingredients prepared, it’s time to move on to the recipe how-to.
The Recipe How-To
Are you ready to dive into this simple Vietnamese pork noodle bowl recipe that surely will whet your appetite? Let’s get started.
Grilled Pork
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Preparation: You will need 1/4 cup of reduced-sodium soy sauce, 1/4 cup of fish sauce, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, 1 tablespoon of canola oil and 1 tablespoon of garlic-ginger paste. Mix these ingredients and marinate 1 ¼ pounds of pork tenderloin, trimmed and cut into 1/4 inch slices for at least an hour in the refrigerator.
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Grilling: Heat the grill over high heat. Remove the pork from the marinade and grill the pork tenderloin slices for about 2-3 minutes per side until they turn slightly charred and cooked through.
Vermicelli Noodles
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Boil the noodles: Cook 12 ounces of rice vermicelli noodles according to package instructions for approximately 2-3 minutes until tender, then drain.
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Prepare a salad mixture: In a large bowl, combine 4 cups of coleslaw mix, sliced red onions, and finely diced fresh basil leaves.
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Toss noodles with salad mix: Add cooled vermicelli noodles to the salad mixture, then toss to combine everything thoroughly.
Nuoc Cham Sauce
This spicy dipping sauce is a staple condiment for many Vietnamese dishes. To make it, whisk together:
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 small chilies, chopped
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 1/4 cup fish sauce
- 1/2 cup water
Mix all ingredients in a bowl and set aside for serving.
Assembling the Noodle Bowl
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Prepare individual serving bowls.
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Add vermicelli noodle and salad mixture to the bowl.
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Place grilled pork on top of salad mixture.
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Drizzle nuoc cham sauce over the top of everything or serve it on the side.
Bon Appétit!
This Vietnamese pork noodle bowl recipe is a perfect lunch or dinner option that will add vibrant flavors to your meal without taking much time to prepare, especially if you have leftover grilled pork from last night. You could also try variations, such as using chicken or ground pork instead of grilled pork, adding sliced cucumbers or bean sprouts to the salad mix, or using different herbs like mint, cilantro or parsley. Enjoy!
Substitutions and Variations
We all know that sometimes we might be missing an ingredient or two in our pantry. But no need to fret! Here are some substitutions and variations you can try for this simple Vietnamese pork noodle bowl recipe.
Firstly, if you prefer not to use pork, you can try using grilled chicken or beef instead. You can also swap out the regular vermicelli noodles for soba noodles, rice stick noodles, or even zucchini noodles for a lighter and healthier option.
For those who are vegetarian, you can easily swap the pork for tofu or tempeh. You can also add more vegetables such as bok choy, bean sprouts, julienned carrots, snap peas, bell peppers or edamame to suit your tastes and preferences.
Now let’s talk about the nuoc cham sauce. If you don’t have lime juice on hand, you can substitute it with lemon juice or rice vinegar. And if you want to make it spicier or more pungent, simply add in a bit more garlic or chili sauce.
Another interesting variation is adding some fresh herbs to the mix. Mint, cilantro, and Thai basil are great options that will give an extra kick of flavor to your dish.
Lastly, if you want a crunchy texture in your noodle bowl, try topping it with crushed peanuts or fried shallots.
Overall, don’t be afraid to experiment and make changes to suit your own taste buds. After all, half the fun of cooking is trying new things and making it your own!
Serving and Pairing
Ah, the moment of truth has arrived. The moment you take a big scoop of Vietnamese Pork Noodle Bowl and devour it. But wait, you don’t want to ruin the perfect dish by pairing it up with bland drinks or sides, do you?
The best way to serve this dish is by adding a slice of lime and fresh basil on top. A spritz of lime adds a sour and tangy flavour that beautifully contrasts the savoury pork, while fresh basil adds an earthy and sweet aroma.
As for sides, I recommend crispy spring rolls or salad made from coleslaw mix and finely diced red onion. These sides add a refreshing crunchiness that perfectly complements the soft texture of noodles and juicy meat.
When it comes to drinks, I recommend a light and refreshing beverage like iced green tea or soda. Alcohol-wise, a crisp white wine or light beer would be great options as well.
One important tip to keep in mind is that since the dish has bold flavours, you should avoid pairing it with heavy or spicy items like buffalo wings or chilli fries. These strong tastes can compete with the subtle flavours of the dish and take away from its refined charm.
By following these simple serving and pairing tips, you can elevate your dining experience and make every bite feel like an adventure in your mouth. Enjoy!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
What better way to keep enjoying the delicious flavors of this Vietnamese pork noodle bowl recipe than by being able to make it ahead of time, store it and then reheat it? Doing so helps you save time, and also preserves the flavors of this dish.
Firstly, if you plan on making this dish ahead of time, I recommend that you cook the grilled pork separately and keep it in an airtight container in the fridge. Similarly, cook the rice noodles or vermicelli noodles according to package instructions and store them in a separate container. Keep the other prepared ingredients like the salad greens, red onions, basil leaves, and lime wedges separately as well.
When it is time to serve, remove everything from the fridge and let it sit out for about 20-30 minutes at room temperature. Then, rewarm the grilled pork by reheating it in a pan or oven until heated through. You can also reheat it in a microwave using a microwave safe bowl.
Assemble your bowl by placing rice noodles or vermicelli noodles in the bottom of each bowl. Then add chopped lettuce or coleslaw mix along with sliced red onions over it. Pour some Nuoc Cham sauce over this for added flavor. Top off each bowl with grilled pork slices and fresh basil leaves before squeezing some lime juice over everything.
If you have any leftovers, remove all ingredients from the bowl and store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be careful not to include any acidic elements such as lime as they can quickly spoil food when left sitting around for too long.
To reheat leftovers, simply warm everything up separately in a microwave-safe dish or on the stove before combining everything back into a bowl to eat. Remember, this dish makes wonderful leftovers that are just as good as when served fresh!
Tips for Perfect Results
When it comes to preparing Vietnamese cuisine, there are a few crucial tips that can take your dish from good to great. Here are some tips for perfecting this Vietnamese Pork Noodle Bowl recipe and making the most of its flavors and textures.
First off, make sure to use fresh ingredients whenever possible. This includes herbs like fresh basil and lime juice, as well as protein like grilled pork or ground pork. Using fresh ingredients will maximize the flavor of your dish and elevate the experience for your taste buds.
Next, pay attention to the cooking times suggested in the recipe. Overcooking can result in rubbery meat or soggy noodles, so it’s important to pay close attention to these details. It may also be helpful to slice your meat thinly to ensure even cooking throughout.
Additionally, don’t forget about the importance of presentation in Vietnamese cuisine. Consider using a variety of colorful vegetables and garnishes like sliced red onion or coleslaw mix to add texture and visual appeal to your dish.
Another key aspect of Vietnamese dishes is the balance of flavors. Make sure to taste as you go, adjusting the levels of saltiness, sourness, sweetness and umami according to your personal preference. For example, you may want to adjust the amount of fish sauce or sugar used in the recipe.
Finally, don’t be afraid to get creative with your substitutions and variations. This recipe is versatile enough that you can experiment with different proteins like pork tenderloin or even chicken. You could also try using rice vermicelli noodles instead of standard rice noodles for a slightly different texture.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to create an authentic and flavorful Vietnamese Pork Noodle Bowl that’s sure to impress any guest at your dining table.
FAQ
As you prepare this Simple Vietnamese Pork Noodle Bowl Recipe, you might encounter some questions, especially if you are not that familiar with Vietnamese cuisine. To help you out, here are some frequently asked questions and their corresponding answers.
Are Vietnamese noodle bowls healthy?
Vietnamese Vermicelli Bowls are a healthy meal choice that offers a variety of fresh and nutritious ingredients. These bowls can easily be customized to your liking.
What are Vietnamese noodle bowls called?
This recipe article is all about preparing a delicious and authentic Vietnamese dish called Bun Thit Nuong Cha Gio, which is essentially a noodle bowl with grilled pork and crispy spring rolls.
What is the Vietnamese dish of grilled pork and noodle?
One of the most popular dishes in Southern Vietnam is bún thịt nướng, a delightful noodle bowl consisting of grilled pork, vermicelli noodles, pickled vegetables, roasted peanuts, and various herbs, all crowned with a zesty nuoc cham sauce.
What is Bun Cha broth made from?
When creating the perfect Bun Cha dish, the sauce is a crucial component that shouldn’t be overlooked. The sauce typically consists of a blend of fish sauce, rice wine vinegar, zesty lime juice, sweet sugar, and aromatic garlic. If you enjoy a bit of heat, you can add some spicy chili peppers to the mix, or skip them altogether. To achieve a thin, broth-like consistency, we recommend diluting the sauce with water.
Bottom Line
Now that you have read through this Simple Vietnamese Pork Noodle Bowl recipe, it is time to put your culinary skills to the test and create something truly delicious. With its flavorful mix of pork and vermicelli noodles, this dish is sure to delight your taste buds and impress your family and friends.
So what are you waiting for? Get started on this easy-to-follow recipe today and experience the true essence of Vietnamese cuisine. With a few simple ingredients and a bit of patience, you can create a dish that will transport you straight to the streets of Vietnam.
Whether you are looking for a quick dinner fix or planning a party for your loved ones, this simple Vietnamese Pork Noodle Bowl Recipe is an excellent choice. Trust me; it’s hard not to love it.
So go ahead and give the recipe a try! And as always, remember that cooking is an art, so feel free to add your unique touch to the dish. Keep experimenting, keep learning, and soon you’ll be serving up some fantastic Vietnamese dishes like a pro.
Simple Vietnamese Pork Noodle Bowl Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 lbs pork tenderloin, trimmed and cut into 1/4-inch slices
- 12 ounces rice noodles
- 4 cups prepared coleslaw mix
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 4 1/2 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
- 4 1/2 teaspoons fish sauce
- 1 teaspoon reduced sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons canola oil or 2 tablespoons other neutral-flavored oil
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced fresh basil, leaves
- 1 lime, cut into 6 wedges
Instructions
- Prepare noodles according to package directions. Arrange noodles in 6 serving bowls. Top with slaw mix and onion; set aside.
- While noodles are cooking, combine chicken broth, fish sauce and soy sauce in a medium saucepan and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to low and keep broth just below a simmer. In a very large skillet over medium-high heat, warm oil. Add pork and cook until browned and internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F., 1 to 2 min., per side. You may have to do this in batches. Remove pork and rest for 3 min., and arrange pork on top of noodle bowls. Ladle in broth, garnish with basil and lime wedges, and serve.