Bún Bò Huế

Bún Bò Huế is a dish that holds a special place in my heart. I remember the first time I tried this remarkable Vietnamese beef noodle soup. It was a chilly evening, and the aroma wafting from the kitchen was utterly intoxicating. My friend, a culinary enthusiast, had invited me over to experience her family recipe. As I took my first spoonful of Bún Bò Huế, the rich, spicy broth danced on my palate. The tender slices of beef, perfectly paired with the fragrant herbs, made every bite a revelation. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth, comfort, and a sense of togetherness. Whether it’s a big family gathering or a quiet night in, Bún Bò Huế has a unique ability to create moments worth cherishing.

Ingredient List for Bún Bò Huế

Every ingredient in Bún Bò Huế is purposefully selected to contribute to the overall flavor and experience. The combination of rich beef, aromatic herbs, and spices creates a harmonious balance that is both satisfying and invigorating. The key players include the tender cuts of beef, which infuse the broth with flavor, and the fragrant lemongrass, which adds a refreshing zing.

• 2 pounds beef shank – This cut offers a rich, beefy flavor that becomes incredibly tender when simmered.
• 1 pound beef brisket – Brisket adds depth and a satisfying texture to the soup.
• 4 stalks lemongrass, bruised – This herb imparts a citrusy aroma and flavor, enhancing the soup’s brightness.
• 1 large onion, quartered – Onion provides a sweet base for the broth, enriching its overall taste.
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce – A staple in Vietnamese cuisine, it adds umami and saltiness to the broth.
• 1 tablespoon sugar – Balances the flavors and enhances the broth’s sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances all the other flavors in the dish.
• 2 tablespoons annatto seed oil – Adds a beautiful color to the broth and a subtle nutty flavor.
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic – Provides depth and warmth to the soup’s flavor profile.
• 1 tablespoon minced lemongrass – Intensifies the lemongrass flavor, adding freshness.
• 1 teaspoon chili flakes – Adds a kick of heat to the broth.
• 14 ounces thick rice vermicelli noodles – The perfect texture to soak up the flavorful broth.
• 1 bunch fresh cilantro, chopped – Adds freshness and a burst of flavor when used as a garnish.
• 1 bunch green onions, thinly sliced – Offers a crisp texture and a mild onion flavor.
• 1 lime, cut into wedges – A squeeze of lime enhances the soup’s flavor and adds brightness.
• Bean sprouts for garnish – Provides crunch and freshness when sprinkled on top.
• Fresh Thai basil leaves for garnish – Adds aromatic flavor and is traditional in Vietnamese cuisine.

Recipe Steps for Bún Bò Huế

Cooking Bún Bò Huế is a wonderful journey that transports you to the heart of Vietnam. Let’s dive into these steps that unfold the magic of this dish. You’ll be amazed by the rich aromas that fill your kitchen as you simmer the broth and prepare the flavorful ingredients.

1. In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water to a rolling boil. It’s crucial to get the water hot enough to extract all the flavors from the meat. Once boiling, add the beef shank and brisket. Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 2 hours. The goal is to achieve tender meat that practically melts in your mouth.
2. After two hours, carefully remove the meats from the pot and set them aside to cool. Once they are manageable, slice them thinly. This step is essential because it allows the beef to absorb the broth’s flavors when served.
3. Return any bones back to the pot to continue simmering. These bones enrich the broth, lending it a depth that is characteristic of Bún Bò Huế. Simmer for an additional hour to deepen the flavor profile.
4. Add the lemongrass, onion, fish sauce, sugar, and salt to the pot. Each ingredient plays its part in building the signature taste of this soup. Allow it to simmer for another hour, so the flavors meld beautifully.
5. While the broth is simmering, it’s time to prepare the aromatics. In a small pan, heat annatto seed oil over medium heat. As it heats, the oil will take on a beautiful reddish hue. Add the minced garlic, minced lemongrass, and chili flakes. Cook until fragrant, which should take about a minute or so.
6. Once aromatic, pour this flavorful mixture into the soup pot. Stir it in and let everything simmer together for a few more minutes. The smell will be heavenly!
7. Next, prepare the rice vermicelli noodles according to the package instructions. This usually involves boiling them briefly to achieve the right texture. You want them soft but still able to hold form in the soup.
8. Now comes the exciting part: assembly! In each bowl, place a portion of the cooked noodles. Top them generously with the sliced beef and ladle the hot broth over the top. The noodles will soak up the delicious flavors of the broth.
9. Finally, garnish each bowl of Bún Bò Huế with freshly chopped cilantro, green onions, a wedge of lime, bean sprouts, and Thai basil leaves. These garnishes not only add a pop of color but also enhance the dish’s freshness.

Substitutions and Tips

Cooking Bún Bò Huế opens a world of flavor and tradition, but it also invites creativity. Here are some tips and substitutions to help you make the most of your cooking experience.

• Storage: Leftover Bún Bò Huế can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the meat.
• Freezing: You can freeze the broth separately from the noodles and toppings. This allows you to enjoy Bún Bò Huế at a later date without losing flavor.
• Pairing: Serve Bún Bò Huế with fresh spring rolls or a light salad for a complete meal.
• Make it Vegetarian: Substitute beef with tofu and use vegetable broth. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning to maintain flavor.
• Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to add other garnishes, such as sliced jalapeños or additional herbs, according to your taste preference.

What Goes Well With This Bún Bò Huế

Pairing Bún Bò Huế with the right sides can elevate your meal. Here are some wonderful options to consider.

• Fresh Spring Rolls: These light and refreshing rolls complement the rich flavors of the soup beautifully.
• Crispy Fried Tofu: Serve alongside crispy tofu to add an extra layer of texture and flavor to your meal.
• Vietnamese Salad: A light salad with herbs and citrus dressing adds freshness and balances the richness of the broth.
• Rice: For a heartier meal, serve with jasmine rice or sticky rice as a side.
• Occasions: Bún Bò Huế is perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or even special occasions like Lunar New Year.
• Storage Tips: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container. Just remember to store the broth separately from the noodles for best results.
• Seasonal Pairings: While Bún Bò Huế is great all year round, serving it during colder months can provide extra warmth and comfort.

FAQ

Conclusion

Bún Bò Huế is not just a dish; it’s a culinary journey that encapsulates the essence of Vietnamese culture and flavors. With its aromatic broth, tender meat, and fresh herbs, it offers a unique experience that warms both the body and spirit. I encourage you to try making Bún Bò Huế at home; it’s a comforting meal perfect for sharing with family and friends. Your kitchen will be filled with delightful aromas, and you’ll create lasting memories around the table.

Bún Bò Huế

The ultimate comfort food, Bún Bò Huế offers a rich broth filled with tender beef and aromatic herbs. This Vietnamese noodle soup is a flavor explosion that warms the heart and soul. Perfect for any occasion, it's a must-try dish that brings families together.

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Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 3 hours hrs

Total Time 3 hours hrs 30 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine Vietnamese

Servings 6 servings

Calories 470 kcal

Equipment

• Large Pot
• Chef's Knife
• Saucepan
• Frying Pan

Ingredients

  

• 2 pounds beef shank
• 1 pound beef brisket
• 4 stalks lemongrass bruised
• 1 large onion quartered
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons annatto seed oil
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon minced lemongrass
• 1 teaspoon chili flakes
• 14 ounces thick rice vermicelli noodles
• 1 bunch fresh cilantro chopped
• 1 bunch green onions thinly sliced
• 1 lime lime cut into wedges
• 1 serving Bean sprouts for garnish
• 1 serving Fresh Thai basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

 

• In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water to a boil. Add beef shank and brisket, and simmer for 2 hours until meat is tender.
• Remove the meats from the pot, let cool, then slice thinly. Return the bones to the pot to continue simmering.
• Add lemongrass, onion, fish sauce, sugar, and salt to the pot. Simmer for another hour.
• In a small pan, heat annatto seed oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic, minced lemongrass, and chili flakes. Cook until fragrant, then add to the soup pot.
• Prepare rice vermicelli noodles according to package instructions.
• Assemble the soup by placing a portion of noodles in each bowl, topping with sliced beef, and ladling hot broth over the top.
• Garnish with cilantro, green onions, a wedge of lime, bean sprouts, and Thai basil leaves.

Notes

• Storage: Leftover Bún Bò Huế can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the meat.
• Freezing: You can freeze the broth separately from the noodles and toppings. This allows you to enjoy Bún Bò Huế at a later date without losing flavor.
• Pairing: Serve Bún Bò Huế with fresh spring rolls or a light salad for a complete meal.
• Make it Vegetarian: Substitute beef with tofu and use vegetable broth. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning to maintain flavor.
• Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to add other garnishes, such as sliced jalapeños or additional herbs, according to your taste preference.

Keyword authentic Vietnamese soup, Bún Bò Huế recipe, spicy noodle soup, Vietnamese beef noodle soup