Hu tieu noodle soup

hu_tieu_noodle_soup

Vietnamese cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors and delicate balance of sweet, salty, sour, and umami tastes. The country’s noodle dishes are some of the most popular, with pho being the most well-known. However, there is one noodle soup that is often overlooked but deserves equal attention - Hu tieu.

Hu tieu is a specialty from the southern region of Vietnam, particularly in the Mekong Delta area. It is a hearty noodle soup that is loaded with vibrant flavors and textures, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike. The dish is made with thin, translucent rice noodles, a savory broth, a variety of meats and seafood, and vegetables, and garnished with fragrant herbs and crispy fried garlic.

Hu Tieu is a versatile dish that can be made with a range of ingredients, depending on the cook’s preference or availability of ingredients. The soup can be made with pork, beef, chicken, or seafood or even with a combination of these proteins. The vegetables, too, can vary, but it typically includes sliced onions, carrots, and scallions, which add a sweet, crunchy texture to the soup.

The broth is the foundation of this dish, and it is simmered for hours to extract all the flavors from the bones and meat. The secret to a great hu tieu broth is the use of whole chicken carcass or pork bones and shrimp heads, which lend a deep, umami flavor and aroma to the soup. The broth is also infused with aromatic spices such as cinnamon, star anise, and cardamom, which adds a subtle sweetness to the soup.

One of the most exciting things about hu tieu is the toppings that accompany it. Thinly sliced pork, shrimp, squid, and quail eggs are finely arranged on top of the noodles, adding an explosion of textures and flavors in every bite. The meats are marinated in soy sauce, garlic, and sugar, giving them a deliciously savory-sweet flavor.

To serve Hu tieu, arrange the cooked noodles and toppings in a bowl and ladle the hot broth over the top. Finish it off with chopped herbs, scallions, and crispy fried garlic. The herbs are an essential part of this dish as it adds a light and fresh touch to the soup. Vietnamese basil, mint, and cilantro balance the richness of the soup and add a pop of color to the dish.

Hu tieu noodle soup is a comforting, satisfying, and nutritious meal that is perfect for any time of day. Whether you’re having it for lunch, dinner or as a midnight snack, this dish will warm your soul and tantalize your taste buds. It’s easy to make and relatively affordable, making it an excellent dish for families or large gatherings.

In conclusion, Hu tieu is a must-try Vietnamese noodle soup that is similar but distinct from its more famous cousin, pho. The complex blend of flavors and textures in this soup makes it an incredibly satisfying meal that is perfect for chilly evenings or any time you want something hearty, nutritious, and delicious. So why not give it a try now and experience the unique taste of this classic Vietnamese dish?

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb. beef or pork bones
  • 1 lb. pork shoulder or beef flank, thinly sliced
  • 1 lb. shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 package of dried Hu Tieu noodles (16 oz.)
  • 1 tbsp. vegetable oil
  • 1 tbsp. minced garlic
  • 1 tbsp. minced shallots
  • 1 tbsp. fish sauce
  • 1 tsp. sugar
  • 6 cups of water
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Optional toppings:

  • Bean sprouts
  • Chives
  • Lime
  • Hoisin sauce
  • Sriracha sauce
  • Sliced red chili pepper

Directions:

  1. Rinse the bones and pat them dry. In a large pot, bring 6 cups of water to a boil. Add the bones and let simmer for 1 hour.

  2. Remove the bones from the pot and discard. Add the sliced pork or beef to the pot and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until fully cooked.

  3. In a separate skillet or wok, add vegetable oil, garlic, and shallots. Saute for 2 minutes or until fragrant.

  4. Add the shrimp to the skillet and saute until they turn pink. Add fish sauce, sugar, salt, and pepper to the skillet.

  5. Cook the dried Hu Tieu noodles according to package instructions. Rinse and drain the noodles.

  6. Add the cooked noodles to the serving bowl. Pour the broth, meat, and shrimp over the top of the noodles.

  7. Garnish with bean sprouts, chives, lime, hoisin sauce, sriracha sauce, and sliced red chili pepper.

  8. Serve hot and enjoy!