Banh Canh Hue, also known as Hue Udon Soup, is a flavorful and hearty dish hailing from the central region of Vietnam, particularly the historic city of Hue. This unique soup features thick, chewy rice noodles that are typically served in a savory broth made from meat, often pork or crab, and is garnished with fresh herbs and vegetables. The dish is renowned for its robust flavors and comforting qualities, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike. As described by culinary enthusiasts, “Banh Canh Hue captures the essence of Vietnamese cuisine with its balance of taste and texture,” which contributes to its rising popularity across various dining settings, from street food stalls to upscale restaurants. With its rich cultural heritage and delicious taste, Banh Canh Hue continues to be a must-try for those exploring Vietnamese culinary delights.
Banh Canh Hue (Hue Udon Soup)
Banh Canh Hue, also known as Hue Udon Soup, is a traditional dish originating from Hue, Vietnam. This city is renowned for its rich culinary heritage, influenced by royal cuisine and local ingredients. Banh Canh Hue features thick, chewy noodles in a flavorful broth, often accompanied by a range of meats and fresh herbs. The soup is celebrated for its unique texture and taste, making it a beloved comfort food in Vietnamese cuisine.
Preparation
To make Banh Canh Hue, you’ll need to gather the necessary ingredients and follow a series of steps that involve preparing the broth, cooking the noodles, and assembling the soup. The preparation can be broken down into three main parts: the broth, the noodles, and the toppings.
History
The dish has roots in the royal cuisine of the Nguyen Dynasty, where it was often served at the imperial court. Over time, it became popular among locals, evolving to incorporate various regional flavors and ingredients. Banh Canh Hue showcases the unique culinary techniques of the region, including the use of thick tapioca noodles and aromatic herbs.
Ingredients
| Ingredients | Quantity |
| Thick tapioca noodles | 400 grams |
| Pork bones (for broth) | 500 grams |
| Pork shoulder or leg | 250 grams |
| Shrimp (shelled) | 200 grams |
| Fish sauce | 3 tablespoons |
| Shallots (sliced) | 3-4 |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | 1 teaspoon |
| Fresh herbs (coriander, green onions) | To taste |
| Red chili (sliced, optional) | To taste |
| Lime wedges | For serving |
Steps
- Prepare the Broth:
- In a large pot, add the pork bones and cover with water. Bring to a boil and let it simmer for 10 minutes. This process helps remove impurities.
- Drain the water and rinse the bones under cold water.
- Add the cleaned bones back to the pot along with fresh water (about 2 liters). Bring to a simmer.
- Add sliced shallots, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Simmer for at least 1.5 hours to extract flavors.
- Cook the Noodles:
- In another pot, boil water and cook the thick tapioca noodles according to package instructions until they are chewy and cooked through.
- Drain and rinse the noodles under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
- Add Meat and Shrimp:
- In the broth pot, add the pork shoulder, letting it cook for about 20-30 minutes or until tender.
- In the last 5 minutes of cooking, add the shrimp to the broth until they turn pink and are cooked through.
- Assemble the Soup:
- In serving bowls, place a generous portion of the cooked noodles.
- Using a slotted spoon, add the cooked pork and shrimp over the noodles.
- Pour the hot broth over the noodles and toppings.
- Garnish with fresh herbs, sliced chilies, and serve with lime wedges on the side.
Enjoy your homemade Banh Canh Hue as a hearty and satisfying meal!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Banh Canh Hue?
Banh Canh Hue is a traditional Vietnamese soup, originating from Hue, made with thick rice noodles and a savory broth, often featuring pork, shrimp, or crab.
What are the main ingredients in Banh Canh Hue?
The main ingredients include rice noodles, pork or seafood, and a rich broth flavored with spices, herbs, and chili.
How is the broth for Banh Canh Hue made?
The broth is typically made by simmering bones, meat, and spices for several hours to extract deep flavors.
Are Banh Canh noodles different from regular pho noodles?
Yes, Banh Canh noodles are thicker and chewier compared to the flat rice noodles used in pho.
Can Banh Canh Hue be made vegetarian?
Yes, a vegetarian version can be made by using vegetable broth and replacing meat with tofu and vegetables.
What is the typical serving style for Banh Canh Hue?
It is usually served hot with fresh herbs, lime, bean sprouts, and optional chili for added flavor.
Where can I find Banh Canh Hue?
You can find Banh Canh Hue at many Vietnamese restaurants, especially those specializing in dishes from Hue.
How does Banh Canh Hue compare to other Vietnamese soups?
Banh Canh Hue is distinct due to its thick noodles and unique flavor profile, setting it apart from soups like pho and bun.
Is Banh Canh Hue spicy?
It can be spicy depending on the amount of chili added, but the base soup itself is generally not spicy.
What toppings are popular with Banh Canh Hue?
Common toppings include fried shallots, coriander, and lime wedges.
Can Banh Canh Hue be frozen?
Frozen Banh Canh Hue can lose some texture, but the broth and noodles can be frozen separately for later use.
How many calories are in a bowl of Banh Canh Hue?
The calorie count can vary widely depending on ingredients, but a typical serving may contain around 400-600 calories.
Is Banh Canh Hue a popular dish in Vietnam?
Yes, Banh Canh Hue is a beloved specialty in Vietnam, particularly known in the central region.
What dishes pair well with Banh Canh Hue?
It pairs well with Vietnamese spring rolls and pickled vegetables for a complete meal.
