) “Satisfy Your Cravings with Vietnamese Cold Noodles
Welcome to my recipe article for Vietnamese Cold Noodles with Shrimp recipe! As a chef specializing in Vietnamese and Asian cuisine, I’m excited to share this delicious and refreshing dish with you. This Vietnamese shrimp noodle salad is one of my personal favorites, and it’s not hard to see why.
Perfect for hot summer days or anytime you’re in the mood for a light and healthy meal, this Vietnamese noodle salad is served cold, making it both incredibly satisfying and refreshing. The combination of rice noodles, fresh herbs, crisp vegetables, succulent shrimp, and a tangy fish sauce-based dressing results in a dish that’s packed with flavor and texture.
So if you’re looking for a simple yet tasty dish that’ll transport your taste buds straight to the streets of Vietnam, then this recipe is for you. Follow me through this article as I guide you through creating your own delicious bowl of Vietnamese Cold Noodles with Shrimp.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Vietnamese cuisine is known for its flavorful and healthy dishes and this Vietnamese Cold Noodles with Shrimp Recipe is no exception. As someone who loves cooking and eating delicious food, I can assure you that this dish will leave you craving for more. Here are some reasons why you’ll absolutely love this recipe:
Firstly, the combination of the fresh herbs and vegetables, succulent shrimp, and tangy sauce makes it a refreshing meal perfect for a hot summer day. The cold noodles provide a satisfying texture while the ingredients add different layers of flavors to create an explosion of taste in your mouth.
Secondly, this recipe is versatile and customizable to fit your preferences. You can switch up the protein by using grilled pork or lemongrass shrimp instead. You can also add more heat by increasing the amount of red chilies or hot chili pepper in your sauce.
Lastly, this recipe is easy to make and requires minimal prep work. With basic ingredients that reflect the essence of Vietnamese cuisine, such as fish sauce, garlic, and lime juice, it’s a dish that’s both authentic and accessible. Moreover, with tips on substitutions and variations, anyone can put their own twist on the dish.
Overall, you’ll love this dish for its wholesome goodness, versatility and ease of preparation – all topped off by an undeniable appeal that will have you coming back for seconds (or thirds). So gather up the ingredients from your kitchen pantry and let’s get started!
Ingredient List
Let’s start gathering the ingredients for this Vietnamese cold noodle with shrimp recipe! Here are the eight main ingredients that you will need:
Rice Noodles
- 8 oz vermicelli rice noodles, or your preferred Vietnamese style noodles
- 4 cups of water
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Shrimp
- 1 pound small shrimp, peeled and deveined
Sauce
- Fish sauce: 1/4 cup fish sauce, 3 tbsp white sugar, 3 tbsp fresh lime juice, and 2/3 cup water
- Juice from 2 limes
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 hot chili pepper or red chili pepper, seeded and minced
- 1 tbsp vinegar
Toppings
- Lettuce, fresh bean sprouts, fresh cilantro leaves, fresh mint leaves, chives, and green onion, all finely chopped. You can also add roasted peanuts for crunch.
These ingredients can be found at your local Asian market or in the international section of the supermarket. Make sure to get the freshest produce possible for maximum flavor!
The Recipe How-To
- Cook the noodles according to the package instructions until they are tender but still firm to bite. Drain and rinse under cold water. Set aside.
- Prep the shrimp: Peel and devein 1 pound of large shrimp. Rinse and drain well.
- Marinate the shrimp with 2 tablespoons of fish sauce, 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil, 1 tablespoon of white sugar and 1 tablespoon of minced garlic. Mix well to combine, then marinate for at least 20 minutes.
Making the Sauce
- In a small mixing bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of fish sauce; juice from 2 fresh lime, 1 tablespoon of white sugar, 2 cloves minced garlic, and 2 tablespoons of sesame oil divided.
Assembling the Cold Noodles with Shrimp
- Divide the cooked noodles evenly among the serving bowls.
- Top each bowl with some shredded lettuce, fresh herbs (cilantro, mint leaves and chives), bean sprouts and grilled shrimp
- Drizzle each bowl with some sauce that you’ve made earlier
- Garnish each bowl with some fresh sliced red chilies, chopped roasted peanuts
- Enjoy this delicious Vietnamese cold noodles shrimp salad recipe!
For more flavorful variations try adding vermicelli noodles or glass noodles in place of rice noodles, beef or grilled pork instead of shrimp or spicy Thai shrimp or lemongrass prawn salad.
Substitutions and Variations
Looking to switch things up in your Vietnamese cold noodle salad? There are plenty of options to consider when it comes to variations and substitutions.
One popular substitution is to use tofu instead of shrimp for a vegetarian version of this dish. You can even marinate the tofu in a similar sauce to the shrimp for added flavor.
If you want to add some more vegetables to your salad, try adding sliced cucumber or shredded carrot for some extra crunch. Bean sprouts and shredded lettuce are also common additions in traditional Vietnamese cuisine.
For those who like their food with a bit of kick, try adding some sliced jalapeños or Thai chilies to the mix. These peppers will add a spicy element that pairs well with the sweet and tangy flavors found in the dish.
Another option is to switch up the protein altogether. Grilled pork or lemongrass shrimp are popular variations that can bring new life to this classic Vietnamese dish.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of noodles either! While rice noodles are commonly used in this recipe, you can also try using glass noodles, vermicelli, or even udon noodles for some added texture and flavor.
No matter how you choose to customize your Vietnamese cold noodle salad, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Get creative with your ingredients and see what unique combinations you can come up with!
Serving and Pairing
Now that we have prepared a delicious bowl of Vietnamese Cold Noodles with Shrimp, it’s time to talk about how to serve and pair this mouthwatering dish.
First things first, it’s important to note that this noodle salad is served cold, making it perfect for those hot summer days or when you’re craving a refreshing meal. I recommend serving it in a large bowl, so everyone can mix and match their toppings according to their preferences.
Now, let’s talk about what pairs well with this dish. Since the noodles and shrimp are the main ingredients, it’s essential to pair them with fresh herbs and vegetables. I suggest adding some lettuce, fresh bean sprouts, chives, green onions, and slices of red chilies to your bowl. You can also top your salad with roasted peanuts for some crunch.
For even more flavor and texture, you can serve your cold noodle salad with a side of grilled pork or lemongrass shrimp. If you’re feeling spicy, try pairing it with a Thai shrimp or prawn salad.
A traditional Vietnamese vermicelli bowl always comes with a side of fish sauce. You can drizzle some over your cold noodle salad as well for added flavor. Or try adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar, 1 tablespoon of white sugar, 3 tablespoons of fresh lime juice and 2 minced garlic cloves to make sauce 2.
So whether you’re having guests over or simply enjoying a meal by yourself, serving Vietnamese Cold Noodles with Shrimp is sure to impress. This dish is versatile and customizable according to your preference- trust me when I say that it’s a dish hard to mess up!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
As with many cold noodle salads, this Vietnamese Cold Noodles with Shrimp Recipe benefits from being made in advance, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify. While it can be served right away, it’s best to make the salad at least an hour or two before eating.
To make-ahead, simply prepare the salad according to recipe directions, then cover tightly and refrigerate until ready to serve. If you’re prepping ingredients in advance, keep the herbs and vegetables separate until just before serving to ensure they stay fresh and crisp.
If you have leftovers, don’t worry – this salad can also be stored for a few days in the refrigerator. Just keep in mind that the noodles may become slightly softer as they absorb more of the sauce over time. To reheat the salad, take it out of the fridge and allow it to come to room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Overall, this Vietnamese Cold Noodles with Shrimp recipe is perfect for those who like meal prep or want a dish that can be enjoyed later on. With some planning ahead of time, you’ll be able to have a delicious and refreshing meal ready to go whenever you need it!
Tips for Perfect Results
Preparing Vietnamese Cold Noodles with Shrimp may be a little bit intimidating, but don’t worry, I’ve got some tips to help you achieve perfect results every time.
First of all, I recommend cooking the rice noodles according to the package instructions. Overcooked noodles will result in an unappetizing, gummy texture, while undercooked noodles will be too hard and chewy. To test if the noodles are ready, taste a few strands. The noodles should be soft but still slightly firm to the bite.
When making the sauce for your shrimp noodle bowl, it’s essential to balance the flavors of sour, salty, sweet, and spicy. Adjust the amount of fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, and chili pepper that you use based on your taste preferences. Keep in mind that it’s better to start with less and add more gradually as needed than to make the sauce too overpowering at first.
The next tip is to use fresh herbs for the best flavor. Fresh cilantro, mint leaves, chives or green onions give bright herbal notes that are crucial elements in Vietnamese cuisine. Be sure to wash them well before using them and chop them finely so that they distribute evenly throughout your dish.
If you have extra time in your hands, try grilling your shrimp before adding them to your noodle salad. You can also add other grilled ingredients like pork or chicken to your vermicelli bowl for extra flavor and protein.
Finally, don’t forget about presentation! Serve your Vietnamese cold noodles with shrimp in a beautiful noodle bowl and garnish with peanuts, bean sprouts or slices of red chili pepper. This dish is not only delicious but also visually stunning.
By following these simple tips, you’ll be able to prepare a perfect shrimp noodle bowl with Vietnamese style noodles anytime you want. Bon appétit!
FAQ
As with any recipe, there may be some questions that come up while preparing your Vietnamese Cold Noodles with Shrimp meal. In this section, I answer some of the most frequently asked questions to help ensure you have the best experience possible while cooking and enjoying this flavorful dish. Let’s dive into some common concerns and queries that you might have about this shrimp noodle bowl recipe, which will help you cook Vietnamese-inspired dishes like a pro in no time!
What is the Vietnamese cold noodle dish called?
Looking for a light and flavorful Vietnamese dish to enjoy during any time of the day? Look no further than bun cha gio – a simple noodle salad packed with fragrant herbs and refreshing flavors. Whether it’s for a mid-day lunch or a relaxing dinner, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings while keeping you cool on warm summer days.
What are the thin Vietnamese noodles called?
The Vietnamese culture has a specific name for thin wheat noodles, they call it Mì. It’s customary to mix the noodles with egg yolk to add a yellow tint to them, and they can be served dried or cooked al dente in hot soups.
Are Vietnamese noodle bowls served cold?
Get ready for a mouth-watering, savory Vietnamese noodle salad! It’s dressed in a tangy and deliciously flavorful marinade and served cold, making it the perfect addition to your Asian cuisine. This salad is packed with crispy vegetables and fresh herbs, giving it a light and refreshing taste. Not only is it a fantastic accompaniment to any Asian dish, but it can also be enjoyed as a main course.
What noodles are used in Vietnamese cooking?
There are several types of noodles used in Vietnamese and Asian cuisine. One of the most popular is known as cellophane noodles, which are made from dzong starch and have a thin and glassy appearance. Another common noodle variety is rice noodles, which are used in many different dishes. Rice vermicelli is another favorite, while mì is a type of noodle made from egg or wheat flour. Lastly, there is hoành thánh, which is similar to Chinese wonton and a staple in many traditional Vietnamese dishes.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, if you want to experience the rich and diverse flavors of Vietnamese cuisine in one dish, then the Vietnamese Cold Noodles with Shrimp recipe is a must-try. This recipe combines the subtle taste of shrimp with the tangy flavors of herbs and spices to produce a scrumptious and healthy meal that is perfect for any occasion.
With the tips, instructions, and substitutions provided in this article, you can easily make this dish in your own kitchen, even if you’re new to Vietnamese cooking. It is also versatile, allowing for various ingredient substitutions and variations according to your dietary needs or preferences.
So go ahead, try out this shrimp noodle bowl recipe and explore the richness of Vietnamese cuisine. You won’t be disappointed! Bon appétit!
Vietnamese Cold Noodles with Shrimp Recipe
Ingredients
- 8 ounces rice noodles (mai fun)
- 2 lbs cooked small shrimp
- 2 cups fresh bean sprouts
- 2 cups shredded lettuce
- 1 cup snipped chives or 1 cup green onion
- 1 cup snipped fresh mint leaves
- 1 cup fresh cilantro
- 1 cup roasted peanuts, chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh hot chili pepper
Nuoc Cham
- 1 cup fish sauce
- 1 cup water
- 1/3 cup fresh lime juice
- 1/4 cup white sugar
- 4 fresh red chilies, seeded
- 4 cloves garlic, peeled
Instructions
- (Nuoc Cham: puree these 5 ingredients to smooth. Will keep up to 2 weeks in the fridge.) Cook rice sticks according to package directions.
- Drain well and rinse in cold water.
- Drain well.
- Place on a large serving platter surrounded by remaining ingredients in small bowls.