Authentic Vietnamese Noodle Soup Recipe – Deliciously Savory
My dear readers, imagine a warm bowl of flavorful and aromatic soup, ready to comfort you on those chilly evenings. Vietnamese Noodle Soup is a dish that has captivated foodies around the world, with its rich broth, tender meats, and fresh ingredients. This soup recipe is a versatile and delicious meal that can be quickly adapted for every taste preference, whether you’re looking for a simple chicken version, a beefy one, or a thick vegetarian option.
Fresh herbs such as cilantro, mint, and scallions add color and aroma to this famous Vietnamese dish while peanuts and bean sprouts give it a delightful crunch. The rice noodles are cooked perfectly until they have just the right texture to absorb all the savory flavors of this soup. But what sets this recipe apart is its broth made with star anise, cinnamon stick, and fresh ginger; alongside soy sauce and shiitake mushrooms – the ultimate taste sensation.
If you’re a Pho Vietnamese noodle soup lover like I am, then this is one recipe you should not overlook. Sure enough, Pho is more widely known in Western countries. But beyond Pho lies many amazing Vietnamese soups with noodle varieties that go beyond the basic beefy broth recipes. And I’m here to assure you that once you understand how to make homemade Pho Vietnamese noodle soup properly – from the perfect broth to the perfect toppings – you’ll never turn back.
I invite you to join me as we explore the ingredients, techniques and tips involved in making the best Vietnamese noodle soup imaginable! Whether you’ve been craving Pho for days or simply yearn for a warm bowl of something delicious on a chilly evening – this Vietnamese noodle soup recipe will keep you warm and satisfied all through the night!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
My dear readers, allow me to share with you the reasons why you will absolutely love this Vietnamese Noodle Soup recipe.
First and foremost, this soup is one of the most famous Vietnamese dishes and it goes beyond the well-known Pho. This soup features a perfect blend of flavors that satisfy your taste buds, leaving you feeling satisfied and content. With ingredients like fresh cilantro, scallions, bean sprouts, peanuts, and nam vang rice noodles, every bite you take will be a complete culinary delight.
Secondly, this recipe is incredibly versatile. It can be made with simple beef or chicken for meat lovers or thick vegetarian broth for those who prefer plant-based dishes. The choice is yours. Furthermore, the spice combination of cinnamon stick and star anise gives it a unique flavor that elevates the soup to a whole new level.
Lastly, this noodle soup includes several other healthy ingredients like bok choy and carrots that are both nutritious and flavorful. The taste and aroma of the freshly grated ginger will fill your senses with pure bliss.
By making this dish at home using my step-by-step instructions, you can enjoy yourself in the comfort of your own kitchen rather than dining out in a restaurant. Not only will it satisfy your cravings but also your wallet with how affordable and easy-to-make it is.
So what are you waiting for? I highly recommend that you give this Vietnamese Noodle Soup recipe a try and be wowed by how perfect it tastes all in one bowl of soup.
Ingredient List
Here are the ingredients you will need to make this delicious Vietnamese noodle soup:
Broth:
- 3 cinnamon sticks
- 3-star anise
- 3-inch of fresh ginger, sliced
- 1 small onion, peeled and halved
- 1 tablespoon coriander seeds
- 8 cups water
Soup:
- Rice noodles (about 1/2 pound or according to your preference)
- Beef chuck roast (about 1 pound), sliced into thin pieces for beef pho OR chicken breast (about 1 pound) for chicken pho OR mushrooms for vegetarian pho
- Salt (adjust to taste)
- Soy sauce (low sodium, if available)
- Scallions, chopped
- Bean sprouts
- Bok choy, chopped into bite-size pieces
- Carrots, julienned or thinly sliced
- Cilantro leaves and/or fresh mint leaves
- Lime wedges
- Roasted peanuts, chopped
These ingredients are easily available in any grocery store but if you can’t find them there, you can always look in an Asian supermarket. Don’t worry about finding the exact same ingredients as substitutions can be made according to your preferred taste.
The Recipe How-To
Step 1: Making the Broth
To make the flavorful broth, start by toasting a cinnamon stick and star anise in a pot for 1-2 minutes until aromatic. Then, add fresh ginger slices, coriander seeds, and a small peeled onion. Toast them for another 1-2 minutes.
Pour 3 cups of water and bring it to a boil. Add 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it simmer for at least 30 minutes, but ideally three hours or more. The longer you let it simmer, the more concentrated the flavors will be. If your broth reduces too much, add more water.
Optionally add in beef, chicken or mushroom for variation.
Step 2: Preparing the Noodles
In a separate pot, cook rice noodles according to package instructions until al dente.
Rinse cooked noodles under cold water to stop from cooking further.
If not serving immediately, store in a bowl drizzled with oil to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Assembling the Soup Bowls
Fill each soup bowl with plenty of cooked noodles, shredded meat/mushrooms (if using), blanched fresh vegetables such as bok choy, carrots, and bean sprouts.
Ladle hot broth over the top and sprinkle generously with fresh herbs like cilantro, scallions, and preferably at least some fresh mint leaves.
Add crushed peanuts on top before serving for an added crunch. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.
And that’s it! You have made yourself a piping hot bowl of delicious Vietnamese noodle soup, also known as pho. Its thick and aromatic broth is sure to satisfy your cravings while being healthy as well.
Substitutions and Variations
Allow me, dear reader, to impart some of my culinary knowledge and suggest a few substitutions and variations for this exquisite Vietnamese noodle soup recipe.
Firstly, for those of you that may be vegetarians, fret not. You may substitute the beef broth with a vegetable broth or mushroom broth for a meatless version. Simply swap the beef bones with shiitake mushrooms to produce a satisfying umami flavor.
Looking for a simpler approach? Use chicken instead of beef. The soup will still acquire incredible flavor without as much intensive work. The chicken used in Vietnamese recipes often comes in the form of a whole cut-up chicken and is simmered for at least an hour.
For those who appreciate the heat, substitute sriracha sauce for soy sauce for some added spice. Additionally, you may replace the cinnamon stick with a few dashes of cinnamon powder or use ground ginger instead of fresh ginger.
Be adventurous with your toppings! Try adding some sautéd bok choy, steamed carrots or scallions into your bowl of noodle soup pho. Or, add some crushed peanuts or bean sprouts as a tasty bonus.
So go ahead and experiment with these ingredients and create your own personalized version of this famous Vietnamese soup recipe. One thing to note – regardless of any substitution or variation, always make certain to use low sodium products, especially the soy sauce.
Serving and Pairing
After spending time in the kitchen creating a bowl of homemade Vietnamese noodle soup, the only thing left to do is enjoy it! A hearty bowl of this soup can be served as a meal on its own or paired with other dishes for a full spread of Vietnamese cuisine.
When serving, gather your favorite toppings such as peanuts, bean sprouts, scallions, and fresh herbs like mint or cilantro. Add some sliced carrots, tender bok choy leaves and a squeeze of lime juice for extra flavor. Serve alongside some crusty bread or steamed rice noodles to create a satisfying meal.
If you prefer higher protein in your meal, consider adding cooked chicken or beef to your bowl of soup. Vegetarians can switch out the meat by adding shiitake mushrooms for added texture and flavor.
When it comes to pairing, Vietnamese noodle soup goes well with other popular Vietnamese dishes like spring rolls or fried rice. Try pairing it with nam vang – one of my favorite Vietnamese Chinese noodle soups. This noodle soup recipe is perfect if you are looking for a thick soup with simple ingredients.
Overall, there are many options for pairings that will perfectly suit your taste or food preferences. Give this delicious homemade Pho Vietnamese noodle soup recipe a try and enjoy the flexibility that comes with serving and pairing it!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
One of the best things about this Vietnamese noodle soup recipe is that it can be made in advance, stored, and reheated for future delicious meals. Whether you need to prepare for a busy week or want to savor your favorite soup anytime, this recipe has got you covered.
To make ahead, simply cook the noodle soup according to the recipe instructions and let it cool at room temperature. Once cooled, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze for up to two months. When ready to serve, thaw if necessary and reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through.
Storing this soup couldn’t be easier, but there are some things to keep in mind. Firstly, separate the broth and the noodles before storing them because they will absorb too much liquid otherwise. Secondly, refrigerate leftover soup in an airtight container immediately after serving because its thick consistency makes it vulnerable to bacteria growth.
Reheating Vietnamese noodle soup is simple too! Heat it up on medium heat in a pot on the stove while stirring occasionally until everything is heated through evenly. If it’s too thick, add some water or broth to thin it out.
So don’t hesitate to make enough of this delicious bowl of hearty soup as you can now store and reheat easily for later use any time your taste buds cry out for that classic flavor reminiscent of Vietnam’s pho street stalls.
Tips for Perfect Results
Now that you have all the necessary ingredients prepped and ready to go, it’s time to focus on some key tips that will ensure your Vietnamese noodle soup turns out perfectly. As an experienced chef who specializes in Asian cuisine, I have come up with a list of helpful tips that will make your homemade pho taste like it was made in a restaurant.
Tip #1: Make a Flavorful Broth
The broth is the backbone of the Vietnamese noodle soup, and a flavorful broth is essential in making an outstanding pho. To achieve this, I recommend simmering the broth on low heat for at least a couple of hours so that all the flavors from the spices and chicken or beef bones can meld together. Use fresh ginger and star anise to bring out the natural sweetness of the broth. Remove any impurities that rise to the top of the broth with a ladle for a clearer and cleaner taste. Additionally, it’s important to season just right – use low-sodium soy sauce and taste constantly as you go along.
Tip #2: Use Fresh Ingredients
Fresh ingredients make all the difference in Vietnamese noodle soup recipes! Avoid using wilted vegetables or herbs near their expiry date because they may ruin the flavour of the overall dish. Use bok choy, bean sprouts and shredded carrots for added crunch and nutrition. Fresh cilantro, scallions, peanuts and mint are also traditional toppings used in Vietnam which add a burst of flavor.
Tip #3: Cook Noodles Right Before Serving
For optimal texture, cook your rice noodles right before serving, ensuring they are al dente. This way, they retain their chewiness and do not become too mushy while soaking up some of the soup’s delicious broth.
Tip #4: Experiment with Toppings
While traditional toppings for Vietnamese noodle soup include beef or chicken that has been marinated or slow-cooked, mushrooms, and herbs, don’t be afraid to experiment with other toppings like tofu or seafood for a vegetarian or pescatarian twist. Customize your noodle soup dish based on your dietary preferences and creativity.
In summary, follow these tips to make a perfect bowl of Vietnamese noodle soup: start with a flavorful broth, use fresh ingredients, cook noodles right before serving, and experiment with toppings! With these tips, you’ll have a delicious bowl of homemade pho that tastes like it was made by a professional chef.
FAQ
As cooking Vietnamese dishes can be a new experience for some, you might have questions or concerns about preparing Vietnamese noodle soup Pho. In this FAQ section, I will address some commonly asked questions and provide helpful tips to ensure your homemade pho is a success. Read on to find out more about this Vietnamese noodle soup dish!
What is the traditional noodle soup of Vietnam?
Vietnamese cuisine offers a delightful noodle soup called Pho, which is served with a plethora of delicious toppings such as bean sprouts, basil, and chilies.
What is the most famous Vietnamese noodle soup?
One of the most well-known Vietnamese soups that many foreign tourists are familiar with is called Pho Bo, also known as Pho for short. This dish originated in Nam Dinh province located in the northern region of Vietnam and eventually became popular in the city of Hanoi.
Is Vietnamese noodle soup the same as pho?
Vietnamese pho and Japanese ramen are two popular noodle soup dishes with diverse origins and unique characteristics. Pho emerged in northern Vietnam through the fusion of Chinese and French culinary influences, while ramen has deep roots in Japanese culture.
Are Vietnamese noodle soups healthy?
Pho has the potential to provide various health benefits due to its wholesome ingredients and protein-rich nature, such as reducing inflammation and enhancing joint health. However, it should be noted that it can be calorie-dense and contain high levels of sodium, necessitating careful portion control. All things considered, pho can serve as a healthy component of a balanced diet.
Bottom Line
Thus, my dear readers, I hope you will be inspired to try out this delicious and versatile recipe! Whether you prefer chicken, beef, or vegetarian options, this Vietnamese noodle soup can easily be customized to your liking. The aroma of star anise and cinnamon stick will fill your kitchen and transport you to the bustling streets of Vietnam.
But don’t let the exotic ingredients intimidate you! With just a few simple steps and quality ingredients, you can make an authentic and aromatic bowl of Vietnamese noodle soup that will impress even the most discerning palate.
So why not add a new twist to your soup repertoire with this noodle soup dish? From pho to nam vang, Vietnamese soups go beyond pho and are becoming increasingly popular throughout the world. I believe that once you’ve tried this flavorful soup recipe, it will become a new favorite in your household.
Remember to experiment with different variations of this recipe, including different types of noodles and vegetables. And don’t forget to serve with fresh herbs such scallions, cilantro, mint and bean sprouts which add depth and color to the dish.
In conclusion, let’s toast to simplicity and versatility―to bowls of homemade Vietnamese noodle soup bringing warmth and comfort on cold days or any day for that matter. I hope this recipe article has inspired you to experience the flavors of Vietnam in your own cooking!
Vietnamese Noodle Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 cups chicken stock
- 2 slices fresh ginger
- 1 star anise
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 cups bok choy, chopped
- 1 cup carrot, grated
- 2 cups rice noodles, cooked and cooled
TOPPINGS
- 1 lb steak, cooked and thinly sliced
- 4 tablespoons scallions, chopped
- fresh cilantro
- of fresh mint
- 2 cups bean sprouts
- 4 tablespoons chopped peanuts
Instructions
- In a meduim saucepan, bring the chicken stock, ginger, star anise, cinnamon stick, soy sauce, bok choy, and carrots to a simmer. Cook about 8 to 10 minutes. Remove spices with tongs.
- Divide broth among 4 large soup bowls. Place 1/2 cup of the cooked rice noodles into each bowl.
- Divide the remaining ingredients into 4 portions and place them on a plate next to each bowl. Diners can add these to their bowls as desired.
Add Your Own Notes
Nutrition
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