Craving a vibrant and flavourful Vietnamese dish that packs a punch? Look no further than Spicy Rib Vermicelli, a culinary adventure combining tender, spice-rubbed pork ribs with the refreshing coolness of vermicelli noodles. This recipe elevates the classic dish with the unexpected warmth of cinnamon leaves, adding a depth of flavour that will tantalize your taste buds. Imagine succulent ribs, infused with fragrant spices, nestled amongst a bed of slippery noodles, all tossed in a vibrant, slightly sweet and tangy sauce. The contrasting textures and exciting blend of sweet, savory, and spicy elements create a truly unforgettable dining experience.
This recipe is surprisingly easy to master, even for home cooks. From perfectly marinating the ribs to achieving the ideal balance of flavors in the sauce, we'll guide you through every step. Ready to embark on this delicious journey? Let's dive into the detailed, step-by-step process of creating your own Spicy Rib Vermicelli with Cinnamon Leaves.
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Stove
- Hand blender
- Knife
- Bowl
- Pan
Ingredients
- Spare ribs
- Young bamboo shoots: 1 kg
- Cinnamon leaves
- Pineapple: 1
- Onion
- Tomatoes: 2-3
- Chili peppers
- Garlic
- Salt
- Fish sauce: 2 tablespoons
- Seasoning powder: 2 tablespoons
- Rock sugar: 1-1.5 tablespoons
- Oil: 1-2 tablespoons
- Water: 3-4 liters
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Ribs and Broth
- Boil spare ribs for 1-2 minutes to remove impurities. Wash thoroughly.
- Blend onions, garlic, and chili peppers in a hand blender.
- Stir-fry the blended mixture until fragrant and golden brown.
- Add spare ribs, fish sauce, seasoning powder, and rock sugar to the pot. Stir-fry until spices are absorbed.
- Add water (3-4 liters), onions, pineapple, and tomatoes. Simmer for 20-25 minutes on low heat until ribs are tender and broth is clear.
- Season the soup with seasoning powder, rock sugar, salt, and fish sauce to taste.
Step 2. Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables
- Stir-fry pineapple and tomatoes separately until they are a vibrant color.
Step 3. Combine and Simmer
- Add the stir-fried pineapple and tomatoes to the simmering broth.
Step 4. Serve and Garnish
- Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with chopped green onions and cinnamon leaves.
Read more: Authentic Vietnamese Fish Noodle Soup (Bun Ca Nuc) Recipe
Tips
- Soaking chopped green onions in water will make them appear greener and more appealing.
- Adjust the amount of tomatoes and pineapple to control the sourness of the broth.
- The amount of cinnamon leaves is up to personal preference. Add more for a stronger flavor.
Nutrition
- Calories: 600-800
- Fat: 20-30g
- Carbs: 70-90g
- Protein: 30-40g
FAQs
1. Can I substitute the pork ribs with another type of meat?
Yes! Chicken thighs or even beef short ribs would work well, just adjust the cooking time accordingly. Remember to adjust the marinade to suit the different protein.
2. Where can I find cinnamon leaves?
While not as common as cinnamon sticks, you can often find cinnamon leaves at Asian grocery stores, online retailers specializing in Asian ingredients, or sometimes in well-stocked spice sections of larger supermarkets.
This Spicy Rib Vermicelli recipe offers a delightful fusion of textures and flavors, showcasing the versatility of Vietnamese cuisine. From the tender ribs to the refreshing noodles and aromatic cinnamon, each bite is a satisfying experience. Enjoy this delicious and relatively simple dish, and impress your friends and family with your newfound culinary skills!