Recipe for Sup Nui (Vietnamese Macaroni Soup)

Sup Nui Recipe Step-by-step

Ingredients:

– For the Broth:

• 500g pork bones (or chicken bones)
• 2 liters water
• 1 onion (peeled and halved)
• 1 piece of ginger (sliced)
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar

– For the Soup:

• 200g macaroni (nui)
• 200g ground pork (or chicken or beef)
• 1 carrot (thinly sliced)
• 100g mushrooms (optional, sliced)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 bunch of cilantro (roughly chopped)
• Green onions (finely chopped)
• Fried shallots (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

Step 1. Prepare the Broth:

• Blanch the pork bones: Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the pork bones and cook for 3-5 minutes to remove impurities. Drain and rinse the bones under cold water.
• Make the broth: In a clean pot, add the blanched bones, 2 liters of water, onion, ginger, and salt. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for 1-2 hours to extract all the flavors. Skim off any foam that rises to the top for a clearer broth.
• Season: After simmering, remove the bones and vegetables from the broth. Season with fish sauce, sugar, and additional salt to taste. Keep the broth warm on low heat.

Step 2. Cook the Macaroni:

• Boil the macaroni: Bring a large pot of water to a boil, add a pinch of salt, and cook the macaroni until just al dente according to the package instructions (usually 7-9 minutes). Drain and set aside.

Step 3. Cook the Meat and Vegetables:

• Sauté the meat: In a pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the ground pork (or chicken or beef) and cook until browned. Season with soy sauce, sugar, salt, and pepper to taste.
• Add vegetables: Add sliced carrots and mushrooms (if using) to the pan and sauté until the vegetables are slightly softened.

Step 4. Assemble the Soup:

• Combine everything: Add the cooked meat and vegetables to the broth and let them simmer together for about 10 minutes so that the flavors meld.
• Add the macaroni: Just before serving, add the cooked macaroni to the soup pot and stir gently to combine. Cook for another 2-3 minutes so the macaroni absorbs some of the broth.

Step 5. Garnish and Serve:

• Serve: Ladle the hot macaroni soup into bowls. Top with chopped cilantro, green onions, and a sprinkle of fried shallots for extra flavor and crunch.
• Enjoy: Serve with lime wedges and chili if you prefer a bit of tanginess and spice.

Tips:

• Broth options: For a richer broth, you can also use chicken or beef bones instead of pork.
• Vegetable variations: You can customize the vegetables by adding broccoli, bok choy, or zucchini.
• Protein options: Shrimp or tofu can be used for a lighter version, or substitute ground pork with sliced sausage or ham.

Sup Nui Variations

1. Sup Nui with Pork

• Description: The most traditional and common version of Sup Nui. It uses a rich pork broth, with sliced pork as the main protein, often accompanied by carrots, mushrooms, and other vegetables.
• Flavor: Savory and rich, with the tender pork complementing the light, flavorful broth.
• Garnishes: Green onions, cilantro, and fried shallots.

2. Sup Nui with Chicken

• Description: This version uses a chicken broth base, with shredded or sliced chicken as the primary protein. It’s a lighter option compared to the pork version.
• Flavor: Light and comforting, with the chicken adding a delicate flavor to the soup.
• Garnishes: Lime wedges, fresh herbs, and chili for added zest.

3. Sup Nui with Seafood

• Description: This variation includes seafood such as shrimp, squid, or fish fillets in the broth, providing a fresh and slightly sweet flavor.
• Flavor: The natural sweetness of the seafood infuses the broth, making it a lighter yet flavorful soup.
• Garnishes: Fresh cilantro, lime juice, and chili flakes.

4. Sup Nui with Beef

• Description: Made with a beef broth and slices of tender beef, this variation is heartier and more robust in flavor compared to the chicken or pork versions.
• Flavor: Rich and full-bodied with a strong beefy taste.
• Garnishes: Lime wedges, Thai basil, and fried garlic.

5. Vegetarian Sup Nui

• Description: This version uses vegetable broth and tofu or mushrooms as the main protein source, making it perfect for vegetarians or those looking for a lighter, meat-free meal.
• Flavor: Mild and earthy, with the tofu or mushrooms providing a delicate texture.
• Garnishes: Fresh herbs, chili oil, and lime.

6. Sup Nui with Meatballs

• Description: Incorporates pork or beef meatballs into the soup, adding a comforting and filling element. The meatballs are usually seasoned with garlic, black pepper, and fish sauce.
• Flavor: Hearty and savory, with the meatballs soaking up the flavors of the broth.
• Garnishes: Fresh cilantro, green onions, and crispy shallots.

7. Sup Nui with Quail Eggs

• Description: A unique variation that adds boiled quail eggs to the soup, often paired with pork or chicken broth. The quail eggs add a creamy texture to the dish.
• Flavor: Rich and slightly creamy with a savory broth.
• Garnishes: Cilantro, green onions, and a touch of black pepper.

8. Sup Nui with Ham and Vegetables

• Description: A Western-influenced version, this soup incorporates slices of ham and a variety of vegetables, making it a colorful and balanced meal.
• Flavor: Smoky from the ham, complemented by the sweetness of the vegetables.
• Garnishes: Chopped parsley or cilantro for freshness.

Conclusion

With its versatile ingredients and simple preparation, this dish allows for endless creativity, whether you prefer classic pork broth or a vegetarian version packed with fresh vegetables. As you try your hand at making Sup Nui, remember that it’s not just about the recipe; it’s about the love and care that goes into every bowl. So gather your ingredients, share a meal with loved ones, and experience the comforting embrace of Sup Nui in your own kitchen. Happy cooking!