Bun Rieu Scratch Recipe

Hey there, noodle lovers! Today, we’re taking our taste buds on a wild ride with a simmering bowl of bun rieu—this ain’t your average noodle soup. Imagine a rich, aromatic broth bursting with flavors of crab and pork, with a tangle of rice noodles that are just begging to be slurped. Add some fresh herbs, a squeeze of lime, and you’ve got a heartwarming dish that’ll transport you straight to the bustling streets of Vietnam. Let’s dive in and make your kitchen smell like a dream!

One of the Vietnamese soups I like best is Bun Rieu Scratch, which is a rich, protein-packed, very flavorful soup. I love starting it with fresh crab meat and ground pork to create a truly hearty base.

Crab paste with soybean oil and fish sauce add an unctuous umami depth that makes the broth sing; plus, the inclusion of fresh tomatoes gives it this really refreshing, well-rounded flavor. The simmering broth, accented with annatto oil, is then served with fresh herbs and lime wedges.

To me, the rice noodles really make this dish, especially when you top it with bean sprouts, fresh herbs, and sliced scallions.

Bun Rieu Scratch Recipe Ingredients

• Crab Meat: High in protein, low in fat, adds a sweet, succulent flavor.
• Ground Pork: Provides richness and depth, high in protein and essential fats.
• Tomatoes: Offers a tangy sweetness, rich in vitamins A and C, antioxidants.
• Crab Paste: Intensifies seafood flavors, includes umami and salty notes.
• Fish Sauce: Adds umami, salty depth, essential in Vietnamese cuisine.
• Rice Vermicelli: Provides carbohydrates, light and delicate texture in soups.
• Fresh Herbs: Adds brightness, aroma, and freshness, rich in antioxidants.
• Lime Wedges: Adds acidity, enhances flavors, rich in vitamin C.

Bun Rieu Scratch Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 1 lb (450 g) crab meat
• 1 lb (450 g) ground pork
• 4 large tomatoes, quartered
• 1 can (14 oz) of crab paste with soybean oil
• 4 cups (1 liter) chicken or pork broth
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 4 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons annatto oil
• 1 package (14 oz) rice vermicelli noodles
• Fresh herbs for garnish: perilla leaves, cilantro, Thai basil
• Lime wedges
• Bean sprouts
• Sliced scallions
• Sliced chili peppers (optional)
• Shrimp paste (optional, for serving)

How to Make this Bun Rieu Scratch Recipe

1. Prepare the Noodles:
Prepare the rice vermicelli noodles as the package directs. Drain and set aside.

2. Make the Tomato Broth:
In a large saucepan, warm the annatto oil over medium heat. Toss in the quartered tomatoes and cook them down until they are soft and slightly broken apart, about 5 to 7 minutes.

3. Add the Broth:
Add the chicken or pork broth, bringing it to a gentle boil.

4. Mix the Crab and Pork:
In another bowl, combine the crab meat, ground pork, crab paste, eggs, fish sauce, sugar, and salt. Mix until everything is well combined.

5. Cook the Crab Mixture:
Diligently spoon the crab and pork mixture into the boiling broth to form small meatballs. Let them cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until they seem buoyant.

6. Adjust Seasoning:
Savor the broth and change its flavor by adding more fish sauce or salt if you feel it needs anything at all.

7. Cook the Soup Further:
Allow the flavors to meld by letting the soup simmer gently for an additional 5-10 minutes.

8. Assemble the Bowls:
Distribute the cooked noodles into individual serving bowls. Pour the hot broth and crab meat mixture over the noodles.

9. Garnish:
Add fresh herbs of your choice to each bowl. Good options include perilla leaves, cilantro, and Thai basil. Next, add some sliced scallions and bean sprouts.

10. Serve: On the side, place lime wedges, sliced chili peppers, and shrimp paste so that each person can customize his or her soup. Then dig into the aromatic, umami-packed bun rieu!

Bun Rieu Scratch Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Large saucepan
2. Medium-sized mixing bowl
3. Large pot or additional saucepan (for noodles)
4. Strainer or colander (for draining noodles)
5. Cooking spoon
6. Tongs (or utensils for serving noodles)
7. Knife
8. Cutting board
9. Measuring spoons
10. Ladle (for serving soup)

FAQ

• What is Bun Rieu?
  Bun Rieu is a traditional Vietnamese soup made with crab, pork, and tomatoes, often served with rice vermicelli noodles and a medley of fresh herbs.
• Can I use a different type of broth?
  Yes, you can substitute chicken or pork broth with vegetable broth if you prefer a vegetarian option, although the flavor profile might differ slightly.
• How do I make annatto oil?
  Heat cooking oil over medium heat, add annatto seeds, and stir for 3-5 minutes until the oil turns dark red. Strain out the seeds and use the oil as desired.
• Is there an alternative to crab paste with soybean oil?
  If you cannot find crab paste with soybean oil, you can make a substitute using minced fresh crab mixed with a bit of oil and a splash of fish sauce.
• How long should I cook the vermicelli noodles?
  Typically, rice vermicelli noodles need to be cooked in boiling water for about 3-5 minutes until tender. Rinse under cold water after cooking to stop further cooking.
• Can Bun Rieu be frozen for later?
  While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the broth and meat mixture, but prepare fresh noodles and herbs when serving after thawing.

Bun Rieu Scratch Recipe Substitutions and Variations

Canned tuna or minced shrimp can be used in place of crab meat to provide a different flavor from seafood.
Ground pork may be swapped out for ground chicken or turkey in a lighter version.
Shrimp paste can be used instead of crab paste with soybean oil for a similar depth of umami.
Canned diced tomatoes can be used instead of fresh tomatoes in this recipe. If you have ripe tomatoes, however, this dish is better served with them.
Wheat noodles or glass noodles can be used as an alternative to rice vermicelli noodles.

Pro Tips

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for the freshest crab meat you can find for maximum flavor and texture. If possible, pick fresh tomatoes as well, which can make a noticeable difference in the taste of your broth.