Homemade Combination Rice Noodle Soup Recipe

Introduction:

Combination Rice Noodle Soup, also known as “Bun Rieu,” is a popular Vietnamese dish known for its flavorful broth and a mix of seafood and protein. This hearty soup is both comforting and satisfying. Here’s how to make Combination Rice Noodle Soup at home.

Ingredients:

For the Broth:

• 8 cups chicken broth (homemade or store-bought)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon shrimp paste (optional)
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Crab Cake (Rieu):

• 8 oz (225g) crab meat (canned or fresh)
• 1/2 cup cooked ground pork
• 1/4 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/4 cup minced shallots
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving:

• 8 oz (225g) thin rice vermicelli noodles (bun)
• Fresh bean sprouts
• Fresh herbs (mint, Thai basil)
• Lime wedges
• Chili sauce or sliced fresh chilies (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Crab Cake (Rieu):

• In a bowl, combine the crab meat, cooked ground pork, diced tomatoes, minced shallots, egg, fish sauce, sugar, salt, and pepper.
• Mix everything together until well combined.

2. Form Crab Cakes:

• Shape the mixture into small crab cakes or patties.

3. Cook the Crab Cakes:

• Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat.
• Fry the crab cakes until they are golden brown and cooked through. Set them aside.

4. Prepare the Broth:

• In a large pot, heat vegetable oil over medium heat.
• Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant and translucent.
• Stir in the crushed tomatoes and shrimp paste (if using).
• Add chicken broth, sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes.

5. Add Crab Cakes and Simmer:

• Gently add the cooked crab cakes to the simmering broth.
• Let the soup simmer for another 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

6. Cook Rice Vermicelli:

• Cook the rice vermicelli noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

7. Serve:

• To serve, place a portion of cooked rice vermicelli noodles in a bowl.
• Ladle the hot crab cake and broth mixture over the noodles.
• Serve with fresh bean sprouts, herbs, lime wedges, and chili sauce or sliced chilies if you like.

8. Enjoy:

• Enjoy your homemade Combination Rice Noodle Soup, a hearty and flavorful Vietnamese dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

Conclusion: Combination Rice Noodle Soup (Bun Rieu) is a delightful Vietnamese soup that combines the savory goodness of crab cakes with a flavorful tomato-based broth. Customize your bowl with fresh herbs and condiments to suit your taste and savor the comforting flavors of this homemade dish.