Bun Rieu, a vibrant and intensely flavorful Vietnamese crab noodle soup, is a culinary masterpiece that transcends mere sustenance. Its rich, reddish-brown broth, brimming with the essence of crab, shrimp paste, and tomatoes, is a testament to Vietnamese culinary ingenuity. The combination of textures – springy rice vermicelli, succulent crab meat (or imitation crab for accessibility), and crisp fresh herbs – creates a symphony of tastes and sensations that will tantalize your taste buds. This iconic dish is a staple across Vietnam, each region boasting its own subtle variations and cherished family recipes.
This authentic Bun Rieu recipe will guide you through the process of crafting this delicious soup, from preparing the flavorful broth to assembling the perfect bowl. Get ready to embark on a culinary journey as we delve into the step-by-step instructions, unlocking the secrets to creating this beloved Vietnamese classic in your own kitchen.
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Food processor
Ingredients
- Onion: 1 big
- Pork bone: 500g
- Salt: 1 tbsp
- Sugar: 1 tbsp
- MSG: 1 tbsp
- Water: 3 liters
- Dry shrimp: 1/2 cup
- Shrimp: 500g
- Minced pork: 200g
- Bún riêu paste: 1 can
- Eggs: 2
- Pepper: 1 tsp
- Bouillon paste: 1 can
- Tomato puree: 1 can
- Fish sauce: 1/2 cup
- Tomatoes
- Noodles
- Vegetables
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Rich Broth and Seasonings
- Combine onion, pork bone, salt, sugar, MSG, and water. Cook for about 1 hour, removing foam for a clear broth.
- Add dry shrimp to the broth.
- Add bouillon paste and tomato puree to the broth.
- Add fish sauce and diced tomatoes to the soup.
Step 2. Create the Shrimp Meatballs
- Blend shrimp, minced pork, bún riêu paste, eggs, salt, and pepper in a food processor until thick.
Step 3. Cook the Meatballs and Noodles
- Cook the shrimp meatballs in the broth.
- Cook the noodles separately until tender (15-20 minutes). Rinse with cold water.
Step 4. Assemble and Serve the Bun Rieu
- Add cooked noodles to bowls, top with the shrimp meatballs and broth, and garnish with vegetables.
Read more: Authentic Vietnamese Fish Noodle Soup (Bun Ca Nuc) Recipe
Tips
- Remove foam from the broth to get a clear result.
- Dice tomatoes bigger to prevent overcooking.
- Pinch the noodles to check if they are cooked; they should break easily.
- Rinse cooked noodles with cold water to prevent sticking.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 1800-2200
- Fat: 70-90gg
- Carbs: 150-200gg
- Protein: 70-90gg
FAQs
1. Can I substitute crab paste for shrimp paste?
While traditional Bun Rieu uses shrimp paste, crab paste can be used as a substitute for a slightly different, but still delicious, flavor profile. Adjust the amount to your taste.
2. Where can I find all the ingredients?
Many Asian grocery stores will carry all the ingredients. For harder-to-find items like dried shrimp and crab paste, you might need to check online retailers specializing in Asian food.
With this authentic Bun Rieu recipe, you've unlocked the secrets to a truly memorable Vietnamese culinary experience. Enjoy the rich flavors and satisfying textures of this iconic soup, and don't hesitate to experiment with your own additions and variations. Now go forth and impress your friends and family with your newfound Bun Rieu expertise!