Crispy Noodle Salad: A Twist on Banh Canh

When it comes to Vietnamese cuisine, Banh Canh is a traditional favorite that many people love. This hearty noodle soup is typically made with thick, chewy noodles and a savory broth that is full of flavor. However, if you’re looking for a fresh and crunchy alternative to this classic dish, then you’ll want to try making a Crispy Noodle Salad.

This salad takes the key ingredients of Banh Canh – noodles, herbs, and a delicious dressing – and puts a unique spin on them to create a dish that is both light and satisfying. Perfect for a warm summer day or as a refreshing side to a main course, this Crispy Noodle Salad is sure to become a new favorite in your repertoire.

Ingredients

For the salad:

• 1 package of rice vermicelli noodles
• 1 cucumber, julienned
• 1 carrot, julienned
• 1/2 cup of bean sprouts
• 1/4 cup of chopped fresh herbs (cilantro, mint, Thai basil)
• 1/4 cup of crushed peanuts

For the dressing:

• 3 tablespoons of fish sauce
• 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon of sugar
• 1 clove of garlic, minced
• 1 Thai chili, minced

Instructions

To make this Crispy Noodle Salad, start by cooking the rice vermicelli noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, rinse the noodles under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent them from sticking together. Drain well and set aside.

In a large bowl, combine the julienned cucumber, carrot, bean sprouts, and fresh herbs. Toss to mix well.

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the fish sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, minced garlic, and Thai chili to make the dressing. Adjust the seasonings to taste, adding more sugar or fish sauce if needed.

Add the cooked noodles to the bowl of vegetables and herbs, then pour the dressing over the top. Toss everything together until well combined, making sure the noodles are evenly coated with the dressing.

Before serving, sprinkle the crushed peanuts over the top of the salad for an extra crunch. You can also garnish with additional fresh herbs for a burst of color and flavor.

This Crispy Noodle Salad can be served as a light and refreshing main dish or as a flavorful side to grilled meats or seafood. The combination of textures and flavors in this dish is sure to impress your family and friends, making it a perfect choice for your next gathering or potluck.

Conclusion

With its crunchy noodles, fresh vegetables, and zesty dressing, this Crispy Noodle Salad is a delicious twist on the traditional Banh Canh that you won’t want to miss. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a taste of Vietnam right in your own home.