Hu Tieu (Vietnamese Noodle Soup)

Ingredients

• Pork bones (500 grams)
• Chicken breast (200 grams, diced)
• Shrimp (200 grams, peeled and deveined)
• Rice noodles (200 grams)
• Bean sprouts (1 cup)
• Cilantro (1/4 cup, chopped)
• Green onions (1/4 cup, chopped)
• Ginger (1 tablespoon, grated)
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
• Fish sauce (2 tablespoons)
• Soy sauce (1 tablespoon)
• Ground black pepper (1/2 teaspoon)
• Lime (1, cut into wedges)

Instructions

1. In a large pot, add the pork bones and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 30 minutes to create a rich broth.
2. While the broth is simmering, prepare the chicken and shrimp. In a separate pot of boiling water, cook the shrimp and diced chicken breast until cooked through, approximately 5 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. Cook the rice noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and rinse under cold water to prevent sticking, then set aside.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the fish sauce, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, and ground black pepper to create a flavorful dipping sauce.
5. Once the broth is ready, strain it to remove the pork bones and return the clear broth to the pot. Bring it back to a gentle simmer.
6. To serve, divide the cooked rice noodles among bowls. Top each bowl with the cooked shrimp, chicken, bean sprouts, green onions, and chopped cilantro.
7. Ladle the hot broth over the noodles and toppings in each bowl, ensuring everything is well-covered.
8. Serve immediately with lime wedges and the prepared dipping sauce on the side for an extra burst of flavor.