Bún thịt luộc mắm nêm, or Boiled Pork Vermicelli with Fermented Shrimp Paste, is a Vietnamese culinary gem that perfectly balances savory, sweet, and umami flavors. This deceptively simple dish showcases the magic of Vietnamese cuisine, where fresh ingredients and a carefully crafted sauce elevate the everyday to extraordinary. The tender, succulent boiled pork is the star, its richness complemented by the bright, refreshing vermicelli noodles and an array of vibrant herbs. The pungent yet addictive mắm nêm, a fermented shrimp paste, provides a unique depth of flavor that is both challenging and rewarding to the palate. This recipe offers a delicious introduction to the complexities and delights of Vietnamese cooking.
Beyond the seemingly simple preparation lies a symphony of textures and tastes. The key to a truly exceptional Bún thịt luộc mắm nêm lies in understanding the delicate balance of ingredients and the art of creating the perfect mắm nêm dipping sauce. Ready to embark on a flavorful journey? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions to create your own bowl of this unforgettable Vietnamese delight.
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Chopsticks
- Blender
Ingredients
- Pork belly: 800g
- Fish sauce: 120ml
- Chili (hot & horn): 2 tbsp, minced
- Garlic: 1 tbsp, minced
- Sugar: 5 tbsp
- MSG: 1/3 tsp
- Pineapple: 100g
- Fried onions
- Roasted peanuts
- Vermicelli noodles
- Cucumber
- Lettuce
- Basil
- Herbs
- Water
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients and Boil Pork
- pork belly, fish sauce, chili, garlic, sugar, MSG, pineapple, fried onions, roasted peanuts, vermicelli noodles, cucumber, lettuce, basil, herbs.
- Add pork belly, cut in half if large, to boiling water with salt. Skim off foam. Boil for 35 minutes, or until a chopstick inserted comes out clean.
Step 2. Make the Flavorful Fish Sauce
- Blend pineapple. Mix fish sauce, water, blended pineapple, MSG, sugar, chili, and garlic. Let it sit for 15 minutes.
Step 3. Assemble the Vermicelli Bowl
- Cut the cooled pork belly into thin slices.
- Arrange vermicelli, cucumber, lettuce, and other vegetables in a bowl. Add fried onions and roasted peanuts.
- Add sliced pork belly and pour fish sauce over the vermicelli.
Step 4. Serve and Enjoy!
- Mix well and enjoy!
Read more: Authentic Vietnamese Fish Noodle Soup (Bun Ca Nuc) Recipe
Tips
- Adjust the amount of meat according to your preference.
- Use a good quality fish sauce for the best flavor.
- The type of cucumber used is called a barie cucumber, known for its crispiness, softness, sweetness, and fragrance.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I substitute the fish sauce?
While traditional, you can experiment with other sauces like soy sauce or a reduced fish sauce for a less pungent flavor. However, the authentic taste relies heavily on the fish sauce's unique umami.
2. What kind of vermicelli noodles should I use?
Use dried or fresh rice vermicelli noodles. Dried noodles need to be soaked in warm water until soft before serving.
3. How do I adjust the spiciness?
Add sliced chili peppers to your liking, either in the sauce or directly on top of the finished dish. Start with a small amount and add more to taste.
This simple yet satisfying Bún Thịt Luộc Mắm Nêm recipe is a testament to the beauty of Vietnamese cuisine. Enjoy the delightful combination of textures and flavors, and don't hesitate to experiment with additions to personalize your bowl. Now go forth and savor the delicious results of your culinary adventure!