Bún bò Hu

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  Bún bò Hu_ served in a bowl

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  Bún bò Hu_ served in a bowl

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  Close-up of Bún bò Hu_

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  Pot of Bún bò Hu_

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  Bún bò Hu_ at Dakao Hoang

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  Bún bò Hu_ at Dakao Hoang

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  Close-up of Bún bò Hu_ at Dakao Hoang

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  Pot of Bún bò Hu_

Bún bò Hu_

Bún bò Hu_ is a popular Vietnamese soup containing rice vermicelli (bún) and beef (bò). It is a specialty of Hu_, a city in central Vietnam, and is known for its balance of spicy, sour, salty, and umami flavors. The dish is often served with a variety of fresh herbs and vegetables.

History

Bún bò Hu_ originated in the former imperial capital of Hu_, which is known for its sophisticated cuisine. The dish reflects the culinary traditions of the region, which often include complex flavors and the use of fresh ingredients. Over time, bún bò Hu_ has become popular throughout Vietnam and internationally.

Ingredients

The main ingredients of bún bò Hu_ include:

• Broth: The broth is typically made by simmering beef bones and pork bones for several hours, which gives it a rich and hearty flavor. Lemongrass, fermented shrimp paste (m_m ru_c), and chili oil are added to enhance the taste.
• Meat: The soup usually contains thin slices of beef shank, oxtail, and sometimes pork knuckles. It may also include cubes of congealed pig's blood.
• Noodles: The dish uses thick rice vermicelli noodles, which are more substantial than the thin noodles used in other Vietnamese soups like Ph_.
• Garnishes: Common garnishes include lime wedges, sliced onions, chopped green onions, cilantro, banana blossoms, mint, and bean sprouts. Chili paste and fish sauce are often provided on the side.

Preparation

The preparation of bún bò Hu_ involves several steps: 1. Broth Preparation: Beef and pork bones are boiled and then simmered with lemongrass, shrimp paste, and spices to create a flavorful broth. 2. Meat Cooking: The beef and pork are cooked in the broth until tender. The meat is then sliced thinly. 3. Noodle Cooking: The rice vermicelli noodles are cooked separately and then rinsed in cold water to prevent sticking. 4. Assembly: The noodles are placed in a bowl, topped with slices of meat, and then covered with the hot broth. Garnishes are added according to taste.

Cultural Significance

Bún bò Hu_ is more than just a dish; it is a representation of the culinary heritage of Hu_. The city is known for its royal cuisine, and bún bò Hu_ reflects the complexity and depth of flavors that are characteristic of the region's food. It is often enjoyed as a breakfast dish but can be eaten at any time of the day.

Related pages

• Vietnamese cuisine
• Ph_
• Hu_
• Rice vermicelli