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Bun Bo Hue

Bun Bo Hue: Dive into Authentic Spicy Beef Noodle Bliss

Experience the rich and vibrant flavors of Bun Bo Hue, a traditional Vietnamese spicy beef noodle soup.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 4 bowls
Course: Beef
Cuisine: Vietnamese
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Broth
  • 3 pounds Pork Bones Essential base for rich flavor.
  • 2 pounds Brisket Can substitute with flank steak.
  • 7 quarts Water Use filtered water for optimal results.
  • 1 large White Onion Always use fresh.
  • 1 thumb-sized Ginger Galangal can be substituted.
  • 2 stalks Lemongrass Use fresh or frozen.
  • 6 cloves Garlic Opt for fresh.
  • 1 stick Cinnamon Stick Avoid using ground cinnamon.
  • 4 whole Cloves Using whole spices preferred.
For the Seasoning
  • 3 tablespoons Sesame Oil Can substitute with peanut oil.
  • 2 tablespoons Annatto Seeds Omit only if unavailable.
  • 6 pieces Shallots Can replace with onions.
  • 1 tablespoon Red Pepper Flakes Adjust to preference.
  • 2 tablespoons Shrimp Paste Can swap with fish sauce.
  • 2 cubes Chicken Bouillon Homemade stock preferred.
  • to taste Kosher Salt Adjust to taste.
  • to taste Fish Sauce Adjust to taste.
For the Protein and Noodles
  • 1 pound Beef Tenderloin Can substitute with other beef cuts.
  • 10 ounces Premium Hue Noodles Rice noodles can be used if needed.
For Garnishes
  • to taste Vegetables (Water Spinach, Banana Flower, Bean Sprout, Fresh Oregano Leaves, Lime Wedges, Red Cabbage) Include as many as desired.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • small pan
  • strainer

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Bun Bo Hue
  1. Boil the pork bones in a large pot of water for 10 minutes, then rinse to ensure a clear broth.
  2. Add the rinsed pork bones back in and introduce brisket pieces. Bring to a boil for 5 minutes, then set brisket aside.
  3. Toast the spices (cinnamon sticks, ginger, lemongrass, garlic, and whole cloves) in a small pan until fragrant.
  4. Add 7 quarts of filtered water to the pot with pork bones and brisket, bring to a gentle boil, lower heat, and simmer for 1 hour.
  5. Add the white onion after 45 minutes and continue to simmer for an additional 45 minutes, skimming impurities as needed.
  6. Toast the annatto seeds in sesame oil until they release color, then strain and set aside. Sauté garlic and shallots.
  7. Combine sautéed garlic and shallots with toasted spices, shrimp paste, bouillon, and any remaining spices. Stir into simmering broth.
  8. Remove brisket once softened, rest on a cutting board, and add hot water and oil mixture to the broth.
  9. Serve noodles in bowls, topped with sliced brisket, beef tenderloin, aromatic broth, and garnishes.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 30gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 1200mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 4mgIron: 20mg

Notes

Regularly skim impurities for clarity and taste as you proceed; use fresh ingredients for authentic flavor.

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