Mì Quảng
Mì Quảng is a signature noodle dish from the Quang Nam province of Central Vietnam. It features chewy turmeric-infused rice noodles served with a rich, savory broth, tender slices of pork and shrimp, and a vibrant array of fresh herbs and crunchy toppings. Unlike many noodle soups, Mì Quảng is characterized by its minimal, concentrated broth, allowing the flavors of the ingredients to shine.
🧂 Ingredients
- 300 g Pork belly or shoulder
- 200 g Large shrimp
- 500 g Turmeric rice noodles (Mì Quảng noodles)(Fresh or dried. If using dried, prepare according to package directions.)
- 500 g Chicken or pork bones(For making the broth)
- 2 medium Shallots
- 3 cloves Garlic
- 1 inch piece Fresh turmeric
- 1 tbsp Annatto seeds(For color, optional)
- 2 tbsp Fish sauce
- 1 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 1/2 tsp Black pepper
- 1.5 liters Water or chicken broth(for the broth)
- 1/2 cup Roasted peanuts
- for serving Fresh herbs(e.g., mint, basil, cilantro, perilla leaves)
- for serving Banana flower
- for serving Lime wedges
- for serving Chili peppers
- for serving Rice crackers (Bánh Đa)(Crispy, large, round crackers)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the broth: Rinse the pork or chicken bones thoroughly. Place them in a large pot with 2 liters of water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer gently for at least 1 hour, skimming off any scum that rises to the surface. This will create a clean, flavorful base.
⏱️ 1 hour 15 minutes - 2
Infuse oil with color: In a small saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of neutral oil over medium-low heat. Add the annatto seeds (if using) and cook for about 5 minutes until the oil turns a vibrant red-orange. Strain the oil and discard the seeds. This step is for color and adds a subtle flavor.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 3
Sauté aromatics: In a separate large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of the infused annatto oil (or plain oil if not using annatto) over medium heat. Add the minced shallots and garlic and sauté until fragrant and softened, about 2-3 minutes. Add the grated fresh turmeric (or ground turmeric) and cook for another minute until fragrant.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 4
Cook the pork: Add the bite-sized pork pieces to the pot with the aromatics. Stir-fry until the pork is lightly browned on all sides. Season with 1 tablespoon of fish sauce, salt, and black pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the pork is no longer pink.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 5
Combine broth and pork: Strain the simmered bone broth into the pot with the pork, discarding the bones. You should have about 1.5 liters of broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Taste and adjust seasoning with more fish sauce, salt, or pepper as needed. Let it simmer gently for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
⏱️ 30 minutes - 6
Cook the shrimp: During the last 5 minutes of the broth simmering, add the prepared shrimp to the pot. Cook just until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, about 3-5 minutes. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 7
Prepare noodles and toppings: If using dried noodles, cook them according to package instructions. Drain well. If using fresh noodles, they may just need a quick blanch or rinse. Prepare your serving bowls by placing a generous portion of noodles in each. Arrange the cooked pork and shrimp over the noodles.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 8
Assemble and serve: Ladle a small amount of the hot, flavorful broth over the noodles, pork, and shrimp – Mì Quảng is known for its minimal broth. Garnish generously with chopped roasted peanuts, fresh herbs, thinly sliced banana flower, and optional sliced chili. Serve immediately with lime wedges and crispy rice crackers on the side for dipping and crumbling.
⏱️ 5 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The key to Mì Quảng is the concentrated, flavorful broth. Don't drown the noodles in it; it should be just enough to coat them and add moisture.
- ✓Fresh turmeric provides the most vibrant color and authentic flavor. If using ground turmeric, add it with the aromatics.
- ✓The crispy rice crackers (Bánh Đa) are essential for texture. They are meant to be broken and added to the bowl or used for scooping.
- ✓Prepare the banana flower ahead of time by slicing it thinly and soaking it in cold water with a splash of vinegar to prevent browning and reduce bitterness.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Use chicken thighs or breast instead of pork.
- Add crab meat or small pieces of fish for a seafood variation.
- Incorporate other vegetables like daikon radish or carrots into the broth for added flavor and texture.