Dive into the vibrant world of Vietnamese cuisine with our mouthwatering Pork Noodle Bowls! This delightful dish combines savory ground pork with fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs, creating a symphony of flavors that will transport your taste buds straight to the bustling streets of Hanoi. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends. Ready to impress your loved ones with a dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Vietnamese
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground pork
- 2 tbsp fish sauce
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 8 oz rice noodles
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup cucumber, sliced
- Fresh herbs (mint, cilantro, basil)
- Peanuts for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking, then set aside.
- In a medium bowl, mix ground pork with fish sauce and sugar. Allow to marinate for 10 minutes at room temperature to enhance flavor absorption.
- Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated ground pork and cook, breaking it into small crumbles, until fully browned and no pink remains (approximately 7-8 minutes).
- While the pork cooks, prepare the fresh vegetables: julienne the cucumber, shred the carrots, and roughly chop the fresh herbs (mint, cilantro, and basil).
- Assemble the noodle bowls by dividing the cooked rice noodles evenly among four serving bowls.
- Top each bowl with the cooked ground pork, distributing it evenly.
- Garnish each bowl with shredded carrots, cucumber slices, and a generous handful of mixed fresh herbs.
- Sprinkle chopped peanuts over the top for added crunch and texture.
- Serve immediately while the pork is still warm, allowing diners to mix the ingredients together before eating.
Tips
- Marinate for Flavor: Don’t skip the marination step! Allowing the ground pork to soak in the fish sauce and sugar for just 10 minutes will enhance its flavor and make your dish even more delicious.
- Perfectly Cooked Noodles: Follow the package instructions for the rice noodles carefully to ensure they are cooked al dente. Rinsing them in cold water afterward prevents them from sticking together.
- Fresh Herbs are Key: Use a generous mix of fresh herbs like mint, cilantro, and basil for the best flavor. Feel free to experiment with other herbs you enjoy!
- Crunch Factor: For an extra layer of texture, toast the peanuts lightly in a dry skillet before garnishing your bowls. This will enhance their flavor and crunch.
- Customize Your Bowl: Don’t hesitate to add your favorite vegetables or toppings! Sliced bell peppers, bean sprouts, or even a drizzle of chili sauce can elevate your noodle bowls to the next level.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 85mg
