Noodle Soup with Pork & Shrimp: Vietnamese Pho Suon Tom
When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats a steaming bowl of noodle soup. And when that noodle soup is a flavorful blend of pork, shrimp, and aromatic spices, you know you’re in for a treat. Vietnamese Pho Suon Tom is a classic dish that combines the best of both worlds – the rich, hearty flavors of pork and the delicate sweetness of shrimp.
Pho Suon Tom starts with a slow-simmered broth made from a combination of beef bones, onions, ginger, and an array of spices like star anise, cinnamon, and cloves. This broth forms the perfect base for the addition of tender slices of pork and plump, juicy shrimp.
The noodles in Pho Suon Tom are just as important as the protein. Traditionally, thin rice noodles are used, providing a light and delicate texture that complements the richness of the broth. Fresh herbs like Thai basil, cilantro, and mint are added to the bowl, along with bean sprouts and lime wedges for a burst of freshness.
The History of Pho Suon Tom
Pho Suon Tom is a dish that has its roots in the street food culture of Vietnam. Originally a humble breakfast dish, it has since become a popular meal at any time of day. The word “pho” actually refers to the noodles used in the soup, while “suon” means pork and “tom” means shrimp in Vietnamese.
- Pho Suon Tom can be found in restaurants all over Vietnam, from bustling street stalls to high-end eateries.
- It is a dish that is beloved for its satisfying combination of flavors and textures, as well as its ability to warm you up on a cold day.
- Each region of Vietnam has its own variation of Pho Suon Tom, with different ingredients and cooking techniques used.
How to Make Pho Suon Tom at Home
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can try making Pho Suon Tom at home. While it may seem like a daunting task, with a bit of time and patience, you can recreate this delicious dish in your own kitchen. Here’s a basic recipe to get you started:
Ingredients:
- Beef bones
- Onions
- Ginger
- Star anise
- Cinnamon
- Cloves
- Pork slices
- Shrimp
- Rice noodles
- Bean sprouts
- Thai basil
- Cilantro
- Mint
- Lime wedges
Instructions:
- Start by simmering beef bones, onions, and ginger in a large pot of water for several hours to make the broth.
- Add star anise, cinnamon, and cloves to the broth for flavor.
- Strain the broth and return it to the pot.
- Add pork slices and shrimp to the broth and simmer until cooked through.
- Cook rice noodles according to package instructions and divide them among bowls.
- Ladle the broth, pork, and shrimp over the noodles.
- Top with bean sprouts, Thai basil, cilantro, mint, and a squeeze of lime.
And there you have it – a steaming bowl of homemade Pho Suon Tom that rivals any you can find in a restaurant. So why not give it a try and bring the flavors of Vietnam into your own kitchen?
Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, Pho Suon Tom is a dish that will never disappoint. Its comforting blend of pork, shrimp, noodles, and herbs is sure to warm both your body and soul. So why not treat yourself to a bowl today?
Leave a Reply