Craving a vibrant, flavorful meal that transports you to the bustling streets of Saigon? Look no further than this Lemongrass Chicken Vermicelli Bowl, a recipe inspired by the iconic flavors of Vietnamese cuisine. This dish is a delightful blend of fragrant lemongrass, tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and vermicelli noodles, all tossed in a light yet incredibly satisfying sauce. It's the perfect weeknight meal – quick to prepare, bursting with flavor, and incredibly adaptable to your preferred spice level and ingredients.
This recipe captures the essence of a classic Vietnamese street food experience, bringing the bold tastes of Southeast Asia right to your kitchen table. From the aromatic lemongrass marinade to the perfectly balanced sauce, each element works in harmony to create a culinary masterpiece. Ready to embark on a culinary journey? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions to create your own delicious Lemongrass Chicken Vermicelli Bowl.
Tools Needed
- food processor
- ziploc bag
- wok
- mixing bowls
- sieve
Ingredients
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Marinade and Chicken
- In a food processor, combine crushed garlic, sliced lemongrass, lime juice, fish sauce, soy sauce, and brown sugar. Pulse until a paste forms.
- Add the chicken thighs to a ziploc bag with the marinade. Shake to combine and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2. Cook the Noodles and Prepare the Vegetables
- Julienne the carrots and cucumbers (remove seeds from cucumbers). Wash the bean sprouts and lettuce.
- Soak vermicelli rice noodles in boiling water for 5 minutes until tender. Drain immediately.
Step 3. Cook and Slice the Chicken
- Remove large lemongrass pieces from the marinated chicken. Heat peanut oil in a wok. Sear chicken thighs until fully cooked (165°F internal temperature). Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Step 4. Assemble the Lemongrass Chicken Vermicelli Bowl
- Combine sliced Thai chili, minced garlic, lime juice (strained), fish sauce, water, and brown sugar in a bowl.
- Layer noodles, lettuce, carrots, cucumbers, bean sprouts, sliced chicken, and nuoc cham in a bowl.
Read more: Authentic Vietnamese Fish Noodle Soup (Bun Ca Nuc) Recipe
Tips
- Use fresh ingredients, especially for the raw vegetables.
- Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to allow the lemongrass flavor to infuse.
- Don't cut the chicken immediately after searing; let it rest to retain juices.
- Feel free to get creative with the vegetables; the possibilities are endless!
Nutrition
- Calories: 600
- Fat: 20g
- Carbs: 70g
- Protein: 40g
FAQs
1. Can I substitute the chicken?
Absolutely! Shrimp, tofu, or even beef would work well. Adjust cooking time as needed for different proteins.
2. Where can I find lemongrass?
Lemongrass is usually found in Asian grocery stores or the international aisle of larger supermarkets. You can also often find it online.
3. How can I make this dish spicier?
Add a chopped chili pepper (like a serrano or Thai chili) to the marinade or sauce. Alternatively, use a spicier chili garlic sauce.
This Lemongrass Chicken Vermicelli Bowl is a testament to the vibrant flavors of Vietnamese cuisine, offering a quick, delicious, and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the fragrant aromas and the delightful balance of sweet, savory, and tangy notes in every bite. Now go ahead and impress your friends and family with this easy-to-make, yet restaurant-quality dish!