Bun Bo Hue is a vibrant and aromatic Vietnamese dish, known for its bold flavors and hearty ingredients. Originating from the city of Hue, located in central Vietnam, this soup has a rich history deeply rooted in Vietnamese culinary heritage.

The recipe features tender slices of beef, often including cuts like brisket, shank, and oxtail, simmered in a flavorful broth infused with lemongrass, shrimp paste, and a blend of spices such as chili, garlic, and shallots. The broth's depth and complexity come from hours of slow cooking, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Traditionally, Bun Bo Hue is served with round rice noodles, adding a delightful chewiness to each spoonful. Accompaniments like fresh herbs (such as mint, cilantro, and basil), bean sprouts, lime wedges, and thinly sliced banana blossom or cabbage are commonly provided, allowing diners to customize their bowls to taste.

The history of Bun Bo Hue traces back to the imperial cuisine of Hue, where it was originally enjoyed as a royal dish. Over time, it evolved into a beloved street food enjoyed by people across Vietnam and beyond, gaining popularity for its bold flavors and comforting warmth.

Today, Bun Bo Hue is not only a staple in Vietnamese cuisine but also a celebrated dish internationally, cherished for its robust flavors and cultural significance.

Ingredients:

- 1 lb beef (brisket, shank, or oxtail), thinly sliced

- 8 cups beef broth

- 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised and chopped

- 3 tablespoons shrimp paste

- 3 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 onion, sliced

- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

- 2 tablespoons fish sauce

- 1 tablespoon sugar

- 1 tablespoon chili paste (optional)

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Rice vermicelli noodles

- Fresh herbs (mint, cilantro, basil)

- Bean sprouts

- Lime wedges

- Thinly sliced banana blossom or cabbage

Method of Preparation:

1. In a pot, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sliced onions, sauté until fragrant.

2. Add sliced beef to the pot and cook until browned.

3. Pour in beef broth and add lemongrass, shrimp paste, fish sauce, sugar, chili paste (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to develop.

4. While the soup simmers, prepare the rice vermicelli noodles according to package instructions. Rinse under cold water and set aside.

5. Once the soup is ready, assemble the bowls by placing a serving of noodles in each bowl.

6. Ladle the hot soup over the noodles, ensuring each bowl gets a generous amount of beef and broth.

7. Serve hot with fresh herbs, bean sprouts, lime wedges, and thinly sliced banana blossom or cabbage on the side for garnish and extra flavor. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Nutrition Value:

1. Beef (1 lb, brisket, shank, or oxtail, thinly sliced):

  - Calories: Approximately 840 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

  - Protein: Approximately 98g

  - Fat: Approximately 50g

  - Sodium: Varies based on broth used

  - Cholesterol: Approximately 300mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: High in iron, zinc, and B vitamins. Provides essential proteins for muscle building and repair.

2. Beef Broth (8 cups):

  - Calories: Approximately 40 kcal (depending on preparation)

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

  - Protein: Approximately 5g

  - Fat: Approximately 2g

  - Sodium: Varies based on preparation

  - Cholesterol: Varies based on preparation

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Contains nutrients like potassium, phosphorus, and collagen. Supports bone health and provides hydration.

3. Lemongrass (2 stalks, bruised and chopped):

  - Calories: Approximately 10 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 2g

  - Protein: Approximately 0g

  - Fat: Approximately 0g

  - Sodium: Varies

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Rich in vitamins A, C, and antioxidants. Has antibacterial properties and aids digestion.

4. Shrimp Paste (3 tablespoons):

  - Calories: Approximately 60 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 3g

  - Protein: Approximately 4g

  - Fat: Approximately 3g

  - Sodium: Approximately 900mg

  - Cholesterol: Approximately 100mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Contains calcium, iron, and magnesium. Adds umami flavor and boosts protein content.

5. Garlic (3 cloves, minced):

  - Calories: Approximately 15 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 3g

  - Protein: Approximately 1g

  - Fat: Approximately 0g

  - Sodium: Approximately 1mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: High in vitamin C, manganese, and antioxidants. Supports immune function and heart health.

6. Onion (1, sliced):

  - Calories: Approximately 45 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 11g

  - Protein: Approximately 1g

  - Fat: Approximately 0g

  - Sodium: Approximately 5mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Contains vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. Supports digestion and provides flavor.

7. Vegetable Oil (2 tablespoons):

  - Calories: Approximately 240 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: Approximately 28g

  - Sodium: 0mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Contains vitamin E and healthy fats. Provides energy and aids in nutrient absorption.

8. Fish Sauce (2 tablespoons):

  - Calories: Approximately 20 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 0g

  - Protein: Approximately 2g

  - Fat: Approximately 1g

  - Sodium: Approximately 2400mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Source of iodine and essential amino acids. Adds depth of flavor and umami.

9. Sugar (1 tablespoon):

  - Calories: Approximately 50 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 13g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Sodium: 0mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Provides quick energy. Enhances sweetness in the dish.

10. Chili Paste (optional, 1 tablespoon):

  - Calories: Approximately 20 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 4g

  - Protein: Approximately 1g

  - Fat: Approximately 0g

  - Sodium: Approximately 100mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Contains capsaicin for heat and may boost metabolism.

11. Rice Vermicelli Noodles:

  - Calories: Approximately 210 kcal (per cup cooked)

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 46g

  - Protein: Approximately 4g

  - Fat: 0.5g

  - Sodium: 10mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Contains iron, thiamine, and folate. Provides energy and a gluten-free option.

12. Fresh Herbs (mint, cilantro, basil):

  - Calories: Varies (negligible)

  - Carbohydrates: Varies (negligible)

  - Protein: Varies (negligible)

  - Fat: Varies (negligible)

  - Sodium: Varies (negligible)

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: High in vitamin K, vitamin C, and antioxidants. Adds freshness and flavor.

13. Bean Sprouts:

  - Calories: Approximately 31 kcal (per cup)

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 6g

  - Protein: Approximately 3g

  - Fat: 0.5g

  - Sodium: 6mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Contains vitamin C, folate, and potassium. Adds crunch and nutrients.

14. Lime Wedges:

  - Calories: Approximately 3 kcal (per wedge)

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 1g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Sodium: 0mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: High in vitamin C. Adds acidity and enhances flavor.

15. Thinly Sliced Banana Blossom or Cabbage:

  - Calories: Approximately 30 kcal (per cup)

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 7g

  - Protein: Approximately 1g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Sodium: 15mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Contains vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. Adds texture and nutrients.