Banh Canh Cua, or Vietnamese Crab Thick Rice Noodle Soup, is a culinary masterpiece that showcases the vibrant flavors of Vietnamese cuisine. This hearty and comforting dish features thick, chewy rice noodles swimming in a rich, savory broth infused with the sweet and subtle essence of crab. The broth itself is a work of art, a complex blend of spices and aromatics that create a symphony of tastes on the palate. Garnished with fresh herbs, crunchy vegetables, and succulent crab meat, Banh Canh Cua is a truly satisfying and unforgettable experience. It's a dish that balances textures and tastes beautifully, leaving you wanting more.
Beyond its delightful flavor profile, Banh Canh Cua represents a significant part of Vietnamese culinary heritage. Each spoonful tells a story, a testament to generations of culinary tradition and innovation. Ready to embark on a culinary journey and create this delicious soup yourself? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions to make your own authentic Banh Canh Cua.
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Mortar and pestle
- Pan
Ingredients
- Water
- Kosher salt: 1 teaspoon
- Pork bones: 2 lbs
- Dried squid: 1
- Turnip: 1
- Onion: 1
- Crab: 1
- Oil: 1 tbsp
- Chopped shallots: 1 teaspoon
- Minced garlic: 1 teaspoon
- Ano seed oil: 2 tbsp
- Shrimp: 1 pound
- Tapioca starch: 1 teaspoon
- KRA salt: 1/8 teaspoon
- Sugar: 1/2 teaspoon
- Black pepper
- Thick rice noodles
- Green onions
- Cilantro
- Chili pepper
- Lime
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Rich Broth
- Fill a pot with water, add 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, 2 lbs of pork bones, and blanch the bones. Rinse and set aside.
- Roast one dried squid and set aside. Cut one turnip into small pieces and peel one onion.
- Fill a large pot with 14-16 cups of water, add 1 teaspoon of salt, and the blanched pork bones. Bring to a simmer and add the roasted dried squid. Simmer for 15 minutes, skimming the broth.
- After 15 minutes, add the peeled onion and turnip. Simmer for 1 hour and 30 minutes.
- While the broth cooks, steam one crab, let it cool, and remove the crab meat (about 1-1.5 cups). Set aside.
- After 1 hour and 30 minutes, remove the pork bones, dried squid, turnip, and onion from the broth. Season the broth to taste and add the cooked crab meat.
Step 2. Create the Aromatic Crab Meat
- In a pan, add 1 tbsp of oil, 1 teaspoon of chopped shallots, and 1 teaspoon of minced garlic. Sauté for a few seconds. Add 2 tbsp of ano seed oil and the crab meat. Stir for 2-3 minutes and remove from heat.
Step 3. Make and Finish the Shrimp Paste
- Add 1 pound of shrimp, 1 teaspoon of tapioca starch, 1 teaspoon of minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of chopped shallots, 1/8 teaspoon of KRA salt, 1/2 teaspoon of sugar, some black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of ano seed oil to a mortar. Pound until it becomes a paste.
- Fry the shrimp paste in oil until golden brown. Remove and place on paper towels to remove excess oil. Set aside.
Step 4. Assemble and Serve the Banh Canh Cua
- Boil thick rice noodles, drain, rinse, and add to the soup. Add the white portion of some cut green onions.
- Mix tapioca starch with water. Bring the soup to a high simmer, pour in the mixture to thicken, and add the shrimp paste.
- Serve with boiled shrimp (optional), chopped cilantro, chili pepper, fried shallots, and lime for garnish.
Read more: Authentic Vietnamese Fish Noodle Soup (Bun Ca Nuc) Recipe
Tips
Nutrition
- Calories: 600-700
- Fat: 25-35gg
- Carbs: 70-80gg
- Protein: 35-45gg
FAQs
1. Where can I find Banh Canh Cua ingredients?
Most Asian grocery stores carry the specialized ingredients like thick rice noodles and fish sauce. You can often find crab at your local seafood market or even in the frozen section of larger supermarkets.
2. Can I substitute ingredients if I can't find some?
Yes, you can! Chicken or shrimp can replace crab. Regular rice noodles can be used, though the texture will differ. Adjust the broth seasoning to your taste if needed.
With its rich broth, chewy noodles, and delightful crab flavor, Banh Canh Cua is a truly rewarding dish to prepare and share. This recipe offers a delicious introduction to Vietnamese cuisine, perfect for a cozy weeknight meal or a special occasion. Now go forth and enjoy the fruits of your labor – a steaming bowl of authentic Banh Canh Cua!