Súp Nui Sườn, or Vietnamese Ribs Pasta Soup, is a comforting and nostalgic dish that evokes memories of home-cooked meals and family gatherings. This hearty soup, brimming with tender pork ribs, chewy pasta, and a flavorful broth, is a beloved classic in Vietnamese cuisine. The rich, savory broth is infused with aromatic spices and herbs, creating a complex and satisfying taste that’s both familiar and uniquely delicious. Beyond the simple ingredients, it’s the simmering process that unlocks the full depth of flavor, resulting in a soup that’s incredibly rewarding to both prepare and enjoy.
The perfect balance of textures and tastes makes Súp Nui Sườn a true culinary delight. From the tender fall-off-the-bone ribs to the satisfying chewiness of the pasta and the vibrant freshness of the herbs, each element plays a crucial role in creating a harmonious and unforgettable dish. Ready to experience the magic of this Vietnamese comfort food? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions below and recreate this heartwarming soup in your own kitchen.
Tools Needed
- Large pot
- Strainer
- Knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- Pork spare ribs (riblets preferred)
- Pasta (macaroni or pastina)
- Carrots
- Shallots
- Fish sauce
- Bouillon
- Green onions
- Cilantro
- Culantro
- Salt: a couple of teaspoons
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Broth and Ribs
- Cut pork riblets into individual pieces and parboil in cold water with salt for 2-3 minutes to remove impurities. Strain and rinse well.
- Return ribs to a clean pot, add water, peeled shallots, and bouillon. Bring to a boil, skimming impurities. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for at least 30 minutes (preferably 50).
- Season broth with bouillon and fish sauce to taste.
Step 2. Cook Vegetables and Pasta
- cut into flower shapes).
- Cook pasta according to package directions, drain, and rinse with cold water.
- Add sliced carrots to the simmering broth and cook until tender (7-10 minutes).
Step 3. Prepare Garnishes
- Chop green onions (separate white and green parts). Chop other herbs (cilantro, culantro, etc.) for serving.
Step 4. Assemble and Serve
- To serve, add pasta to bowls (use a noodle basket to warm it in the broth). Divide ribs and carrots between bowls. Ladle broth over. Top with herbs and serve.
Read more: Vietnamese Sweet & Sour Fish Soup: A Delicious Comfort Food Recipe
Tips
- Use Vietnamese-made Nui pasta for best results; they are thinner, bouncier, and less likely to fall apart than regular pasta.
- This soup is a great make-ahead recipe. You can make a large batch and store it in the fridge.
- Riblets are easier to eat than full ribs and fit better in bowls.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 400-500
- Fat: 20-30gg
- Carbs: 40-50gg
- Protein: 25-35gg
FAQs
1. Can I use different types of pasta in Súp Nui Sườn?
Yes! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can experiment with other small pasta shapes like ditalini, small shells, or even broken spaghetti. Just ensure they're small enough to easily cook in the soup.
2. How can I make the broth richer and more flavorful?
To deepen the flavor, roast the pork ribs before adding them to the soup. You can also add a tablespoon of fish sauce or a chicken bouillon cube for extra umami.
Súp Nui Sườn, with its comforting warmth and delicious flavors, is more than just a recipe; it's a journey back to cherished memories. This versatile dish allows for personal touches and variations, making it a perfect canvas for your culinary creativity. So gather your ingredients, embrace the process, and enjoy the heartwarming reward of a perfectly crafted bowl of Vietnamese Ribs Pasta Soup.