Vietnamese Banh Canh Thick Noodles Soup Recipe

When I first encountered Vietnamese Banh Canh, it felt like stumbling upon a hidden treasure in a bustling market. Just as one might pair a fine wine with a rich dish, Banh Canh is best complemented with a side of fresh herbs, lime wedges, and perhaps a splash of chili for those who crave a bit of heat. 

I often enjoy it alongside simple pickled vegetables, which add a refreshing crunch. Trust me; it’s a match made in culinary heaven.

Vietnamese cuisine offers a plethora of dishes, each with its unique history and character. Among them, Banh Canh thick noodle soup captures attention for its comfort and depth of flavor. 

This dish is much more than a meal; it is an experience that transports you straight to the bustling streets of Vietnam. As I dug deeper into the cultural significance and the joys of crafting this soup, I became more than just a fan; I became a devotee.

You Might Also Like These Recipes!

• Hash Brown Potato Soup Recipe
• Short Rib Soup
• Egg Rolls

What is Vietnamese Banh Canh Thick Noodles Soup?

Banh Canh is a traditional Vietnamese noodle soup featuring thick, chewy noodles. These noodles are made from a combination of rice flour and tapioca starch, giving them that delightful texture. 

The broth is typically rich and savory, often crafted from a base of pork hocks simmered for hours with fragrant aromatics. Shrimp or other meats are often added, rounding out the dish and making it a hearty choice for any meal.

Now, why is it that we often call this dish “comfort food”? Perhaps it’s the aroma wafting through the house as the broth simmers or the way the thick noodles cling to the rich sauce. Each bowl serves as a warm embrace, making it a favorite during cool evenings or family gatherings.

What Is The Flavor Profile of This Dish?

Imagine your taste buds embarking on a delightful journey. Banh Canh offers a harmonious blend of flavors. The broth is deeply savory with umami notes contributed by the pork and shrimp. 

There’s a slight sweetness from the sugar that tempers the saltiness of the fish sauce. Fresh herbs like cilantro and green onions add brightness, and a hint of heat from chili elevates it further. Every spoonful brings warmth and diverse flavors that speak to the heart of Vietnamese cooking.

Why You’ll Love This?

You may wonder why this dish stands out in a sea of Asian cuisines. First off, the versatility of Banh Canh speaks to its broad appeal. Whether you prefer a broth loaded with shrimp, or a more meat-forward version with pork hocks, you can customize it to your liking. 

The dish is not just filling but is also a canvas for fresh ingredients, offering endless possibilities for creativity. Plus, cooking it at home gives you the freedom to adjust seasoning to your personal preference.

Ingredients

Let’s talk about what you need for this hearty soup.

• Pork Hocks: 2 lbs (ask your butcher to slice into ½-inch thick pieces)
• Water: 8 cups of filtered water
• Yellow Onion: 1, halved and peeled
• Kosher Salt: 2 tablespoons, divided
• Granulated Sugar: 1 tablespoon
• Shrimp: 6 to 10 medium-to-large, peeled and deveined
• Fresh Bánh Canh Noodles: 2 packs (about 15 oz each)
• Fish Sauce: 1 tablespoon (for that savory kick)
• Freshly Cracked White Pepper: 1 teaspoon
• Green Onions: 1 bunch, sliced roughly
• Fresh Cilantro: 1 bunch, roughly chopped
• Crispy Fried Shallots: 4 tablespoons (for texture and crunch)

Step by Step Instructions

Let’s dive right into crafting our Banh Canh. Follow these steps for a culinary adventure.

Step 1: Prepare the Broth

Start with the aromatic base.

• In a large pot, bring the 8 cups of filtered water to a boil.
• Add the pork hocks and halved yellow onion.
• Season with 1 tablespoon of kosher salt and the sugar.
• Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, skimming off any foam that rises to the surface.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

While the broth is doing its thing, let’s focus on the shrimp.

• In a bowl, lightly season the peeled shrimp with fine salt and granulated sugar.
• In a separate pan, add a bit of oil and cook the shrimp until they are turning pink and opaque—about 2-3 minutes. Set aside.

Step 3: Boil the Noodles

Bring another pot of water to a boil, just for the noodles.

• Add the fresh bánh canh noodles to the boiling water.
• Cook according to the package instructions, usually about 5-7 minutes, or until they are tender but still create that signature chewiness.
• Drain the noodles and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.

Step 4: Assemble Your Bowl

Now comes the fun part—building your bowl!

• In soup bowls, add a portion of the cooked noodles.
• Carefully ladle the hot broth over the noodles, ensuring some pork hocks make their way into the bowl.
• Top with the cooked shrimp and generous sprinkles of chopped green onions, cilantro, and crispy fried shallots.
• Season with a drizzle of fish sauce and a sprinkle of freshly cracked white pepper.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Grab a spoon—or better yet, chopsticks.

• Serve hot and enjoy this comforting dish at its finest.
• Don’t forget to provide lime wedges and chili on the side for those who want to add extra flavor.

Tips & Tricks

Here are some practical tips to ensure your Banh Canh is a hit.

Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh ingredients will elevate the dish to new heights.
Simmer Broth Longer: The longer you simmer, the richer the flavor. Don’t rush this step!
Adjusting Saltiness: Balance the saltiness with a little sugar; it creates a pleasant contrast.
Leftover Broth: You can use leftover broth as a base for other soups or stews.
Make Ahead: Both the broth and the noodles can be prepared ahead of time for quick assembly when you’re ready to eat.

Nutrition Information

While enjoying a hearty meal like Banh Canh, it’s essential to be mindful of nutrition. Each serving provides protein from the meat and shrimp, along with carbohydrates from the noodles. Topped with fresh herbs, it contributes vitamins and minerals crucial for health. On average, a serving will deliver:

How Can You Store This Vietnamese Banh Canh Thick Noodles Soup?

If you’re making a large batch, you might wonder how best to store it. Here’s what I recommend:

Refrigeration: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can last in the fridge for up to three days.
Freezing: You can freeze the broth separately from the noodles. Use a freezer-safe container. It might last up to three months in the freezer. Just remember to label it!
Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, simply reheat the broth and add freshly cooked noodles to retain that wonderful texture.

Alternative Choices

Sometimes, certain ingredients may be hard to find. Here are some alternatives you can consider:

Pork Shoulder Instead of Pork Hocks: If your butcher doesn’t have pork hocks, pork shoulder will work beautifully. It also adds richness to the broth.
Substitute Different Noodles: If you can’t find bánh canh noodles, try thick rice vermicelli or even udon noodles. They won’t be identical, but they’ll still create a delicious dish.
Shrimp Alternatives: If you have a shellfish allergy or dislike shrimp, consider using chicken or beef. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.

Conclusion

As I reflect on my journey with Vietnamese Banh Canh, I can confidently say that it is more than just a dish; it embodies a story filled with tradition, flavors, and personal touches. This recipe invites you to explore, create, and savor the complexities of Vietnamese cuisine right from your kitchen. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet evening or hosting friends, there’s nothing more satisfying than serving a warm bowl of Banh Canh. Embrace the experience, delight in the flavors, and let this dish become a new favorite in your culinary repertoire. So go ahead, gather the ingredients, and dive into making this magical soup that encapsulates both comfort and adventure. Happy cooking!

You Might Also Like These Latest Recipes!

• Cucumber Tomato Salad
• Air Fryer Egg Rolls Recipe
• Sugar-Free Keto Low-Carb Granola Bars