Bac Lieu, a coastal province in Vietnam, boasts a rich culinary heritage, and its stir-fried noodle soup (Bún xào) stands as a testament to this. This vibrant dish is a delightful fusion of savory and sweet, featuring a unique blend of flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds. Unlike its northern counterparts, Bac Lieu's Bún xào offers a distinct character, showcasing the region's fresh seafood and local ingredients. The noodles, typically thin rice vermicelli, are tossed in a fragrant sauce, often incorporating shrimp paste, fish sauce, and a touch of sweetness from palm sugar. A variety of proteins and vegetables add depth and complexity to this already flavorful masterpiece.
This recipe will guide you through the process of creating authentic Bac Lieu Stir-fried Noodle Soup, step by step. We'll explore the essential ingredients, the art of crafting the perfect sauce, and the techniques for achieving that signature smoky char and delicate balance of flavors. Get ready to embark on a culinary journey to the southern coast of Vietnam, where the aroma of sizzling noodles and the taste of fresh seafood await.
Tools Needed
- Pan
- Knife
- Chopping board
Ingredients
- Noodles (soft noodles/pho noodles): 500g
- Bean sprouts
- Carrot
- Chives: 200g
- Green onions
- Pork: 150g
- Eggs: 2
- Shallots
- Garlic
- Seasoning powder: 2 tsp
- MSG: a little
- Sugar: 2 tsp
- Oyster sauce: 0.5 tbsp
- Pepper: a little
- Fish sauce: 1 tsp
- Cooking oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients and Sauté Aromatics
- Wash and drain bean sprouts. Chop carrots, chives, and green onions.
- Heat cooking oil in a pan. Add minced garlic and shallots and fry until fragrant.
Step 2. Stir-fry Meat and Vegetables
- Remove some of the fragrant garlic and shallots for later use. Add pork to the pan and stir-fry until cooked.
- Add seasoning powder, MSG, sugar, oyster sauce, and pepper to the pan. Stir-fry until well combined.
- Add carrots and stir-fry until cooked. Then, add bean sprouts and chives. Stir-fry for about a minute.
- Turn off the stove. Set aside.
Step 3. Cook the Noodles
- In a separate pan, heat a little cooking oil. Add the remaining fried garlic and shallots.
- Add noodles to the pan and stir-fry. Add the stir-fried vegetable and meat mixture, along with some of the cooking liquid.
- Add fish sauce and stir well to combine.
- Stir-fry the noodles until heated through. Be careful not to overcook.
Step 4. Add Fried Eggs
- In another pan, add a little cooking oil. Add eggs and stir-fry until cooked.
Read more: Crispy Tofu with Onions: A Delicious Vietnamese Beer Snack
Tips
- To make the noodles easier to stir-fry, loosen them before cooking.
- Don't overcook the vegetables, especially the bean sprouts and chives.
- For serving, you can wrap the noodles in rice paper and serve with sweet and sour fish sauce.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. What kind of noodles are used in Bac Lieu Stir-fried Noodles?
Thin rice vermicelli noodles are traditionally used. They hold the sauce well and have a delicate texture.
2. Can I substitute the seafood? I'm allergic to shrimp.
Absolutely! You can easily substitute the shrimp with chicken, pork, tofu, or even more vegetables for a vegetarian version.
3. What makes Bac Lieu Stir-fried Noodles different from other stir-fried noodle dishes?
The unique flavor profile comes from the combination of shrimp paste, fish sauce, palm sugar, and the specific blend of local herbs and spices used in the sauce. The cooking method also contributes to a distinct smoky char.
With its vibrant flavors and relatively simple preparation, Bac Lieu stir-fried noodles are a delightful dish to both make and share. This recipe offers a delicious taste of Vietnamese coastal cuisine, easily adaptable to your preferences and available ingredients. Enjoy the satisfying experience of creating this authentic and flavorful noodle dish!