Are you ready to dive into a delicious bowl of Banh Canh Hue, also known as Hue Udon Soup? This mouthwatering dish hails from the beautiful city of Hue in Vietnam, known for its rich history and vibrant culture. Banh Canh Hue is a unique blend of thick, chewy noodles and a flavorful broth, often garnished with fresh herbs and proteins like shrimp or pork. Its cultural significance comes from its origins in the royal cuisine of Hue, making it a special treat that reflects the region’s culinary heritage. The combination of textures and flavors makes Banh Canh Hue a popular choice for families and food lovers alike. Plus, it’s a comforting meal, perfect for any time of the year!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Rice flour | 2 cups |
| Water | 1.5 cups |
| Starch (tapioca or potato) | 1/2 cup |
| Pork (belly or shoulder) | 200 grams |
| Shrimp (peeled) | 200 grams |
| Fish sauce | 2 tablespoons |
| Onion (sliced) | 1 medium |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves |
| Green onions (chopped) | 1/4 cup |
| Cilantro (for garnish) | 1/4 cup |
*Note: You can substitute pork with chicken or tofu for a vegetarian version.*
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these easy steps to create your own bowl of Banh Canh Hue:
- Create the Noodles: In a mixing bowl, combine rice flour and starch. Gradually add water while stirring until you have a smooth batter. Let it rest for 30 minutes.
- Prepare the Broth: In a pot, heat a little oil and add the sliced onions and minced garlic. Sauté them until fragrant.
- Add the Pork: Cut the pork into small pieces and add it to the pot. Cook until it’s lightly browned.
- Cook the Shrimp: Add the peeled shrimp to the pot along with fish sauce. Stir well and cook until they turn pink.
- Add Water: Pour in about 4 cups of water and bring to a boil. Lower the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes.
- Make the Noodles (again): Use a steamer or a flat tray to steam the noodle batter for 10-15 minutes until cooked. Cut them into strips.
- Combine: Serve the noodles in bowls and ladle the hot broth over them. Top with chopped green onions and cilantro.
- Enjoy! Savor your homemade Banh Canh Hue with your favorite condiments!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (%) |
| Calories | 350 | 18% |
| Protein | 25g | 50% |
| Carbohydrates | 40g | 13% |
| Fats | 10g | 15% |
| Sodium | 800mg | 35% |
*Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portions.*
Tips and Tricks
– Customize Your Dish: Feel free to add vegetables like bok choy or mushrooms to enhance the flavor and nutrition.
– Store Leftovers: Keep any leftover broth and noodles separate in the fridge to maintain their texture.
– Avoid Overcooking: Be careful not to overcook the shrimp; they cook quickly and become rubbery if left too long.
– Use Fresh Herbs: Always use fresh herbs like cilantro and green onions to elevate your dish.
FAQs
What is Banh Canh Hue?
Banh Canh Hue is a type of thick noodle soup from Hue, Vietnam, made with rice flour and starch, often served with flavorful broth, shrimp, pork, and fresh herbs.
Can I make Banh Canh Hue vegetarian?
Yes! You can easily substitute the meat with tofu or vegetables to create a delicious vegetarian version.
How long does it take to prepare Banh Canh Hue?
It typically takes about 1 hour to prepare this dish, including cooking the noodles and broth.
What can I serve with Banh Canh Hue?
This soup can be served with lime wedges, chili sauce, or pickled vegetables to enhance its flavor.
Can I freeze Banh Canh Hue?
While the broth can be frozen, it’s best to store the noodles separately, as they may become mushy when thawed.
Where can I find ingredients for Banh Canh Hue?
Most of the ingredients can be found at Asian grocery stores or in the international aisle of your local supermarkets.
What type of noodles are used in Banh Canh Hue?
Banh Canh Hue uses thick, chewy noodles made primarily from rice flour and tapioca or potato starch.
Is Banh Canh Hue spicy?
The soup itself isn’t spicy, but you can add chili sauce or fresh chilis to spice it up to your liking!
Can I use instant noodles instead?
While instant noodles can be a quicker option, they will not have the same texture and flavor as traditional Banh Canh noodles.
How do I store leftover Banh Canh Hue?
Store the noodles and broth separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator, and consume within 2-3 days.
Now you have an engaging and delicious recipe for Banh Canh Hue! Get your ingredients ready, and enjoy making this tasty treat at home!
