Bun thang: A delicate and flavorful Vietnamese noodle soup
Bun thang is a traditional noodle soup from Hanoi, Vietnam that is known for its delicate flavor and beautiful presentation. The dish is typically served during the lunar new year and other special occasions, but it can be enjoyed year round at Vietnamese restaurants around the world.
The soup features thin rice vermicelli noodles in a flavorful chicken broth that is delicately seasoned with fish sauce and various aromatic herbs and spices. The broth is typically made by simmering chicken bones, pork bones, and dried shrimp, which infuses it with a rich umami flavor. It is then strained to remove any impurities and simmered with various herbs and spices like ginger, shallots, and coriander to add a complex depth of flavor.
The dish is then topped with a variety of thinly sliced ingredients, including chicken, pork, egg, and shiitake mushrooms, which are arranged in a decorative pattern in the bowl. The soup is then garnished with fresh herbs like cilantro, scallions, and Thai basil, as well as crispy shallots and shrimp floss, which add a crunchy texture and savory flavor to the dish.
One of the unique aspects of bun thang is its use of thinly sliced omelet. The omelet is made by whisking eggs with a little bit of fish sauce and cooking it in a non stick pan until it forms a thin sheet. The sheet is then rolled up and sliced into thin strips, which are added to the soup for a subtle flavor and delicate texture.
Bun thang is a beloved dish in Hanoi, and its delicate and nuanced flavors make it a favorite among Vietnamese food lovers around the world. Whether you are a seasoned fan of Vietnamese cuisine or just discovering it for the first time, bun thang is a must try dish that is sure to delight your taste buds