Flavorful Bun Thang Recipe Right At Home

Origin Of The Special Name – Bun Thang

Bun Thang, one of the quintessential dishes of Hanoi, isn’t just a delicious meal; it’s a symbol of Vietnamese culinary culture. With its delicate combination of simple yet carefully prepared ingredients, Bun Thang transcends mere sustenance to become a part of life, memories, and tradition.

Bun Thang, with its evocative name, is known as a rustic yet refined dish. Its distinctive features include soft vermicelli noodles, savory-sweet broth, fragrant chicken, unique dried shrimp flakes, and fresh herbs. Each mouthful of Bun Thang offers not only a taste of exquisite flavors but also a journey into the rich culinary heritage of the nation.

Despite its humble origins, Bun Thang has continuously evolved and adapted over time, reflecting the creativity of chefs and preferences of diners. This evolution highlights the enduring appeal and allure of this dish among the Vietnamese people and visitors alike, as they explore the vibrant culinary landscape of Vietnam.

How To Cook Bun Thang

Ingredients:

• 150g vermicelli noodles
• 500ml chicken broth
• 200g chicken breast
• 2 eggs
• 20g dried shrimp flakes
• Fresh herbs (cilantro, scallions, perilla leaves)
• Bean sprouts
• Shredded lettuce
• Lime wedges (optional)
• Fish sauce, sugar, salt, and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

• Cook the vermicelli noodles according to package instructions until tender. Rinse under cold water, drain, and set aside.
• In a saucepan, heat the chicken broth over medium heat until simmering. Season with fish sauce, sugar, salt, and pepper to taste.
• Thinly slice the chicken breast and season with salt and pepper. Set aside.
• Beat the eggs and cook them into thin omelettes. Roll them up and slice into thin strips. Alternatively, poach the eggs until the whites are set but the yolks are still runny. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Dried Shrimp Flakes

In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the dried shrimp flakes until fragrant and slightly crispy. Transfer to a mortar and pestle, grind into a coarse powder, and set aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Bun Thang

• Divide the cooked vermicelli noodles evenly between two serving bowls.
• Arrange the sliced chicken breast, omelette strips (or poached eggs), and fresh herbs on top of the noodles.
• Ladle the hot chicken broth over the ingredients in each bowl, ensuring they are fully submerged.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

• Garnish the Bun Thang with a sprinkle of toasted dried shrimp flakes.
• Serve immediately with a side of bean sprouts, shredded lettuce, lime wedges, and additional fresh herbs on the side.
• Encourage diners to customize their bowls with condiments like fish sauce, chili sauce, or sliced chili peppers according to their preference.

5 Must Try Bun Thang Restaurants In Ha Noi

1. Bun Thang Mrs.Duc:

• Address: 27 Hang Bun Street, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi.
• Rating: 4.5/5 stars.
• Specialties: Known for its traditional flavor and rich broth, Bun Thang Mrs.Duc offers a cozy atmosphere and friendly service. Customers praise the generous portions and affordable prices.

2. Bun Thang Hang Dieu:

• Address: 48 Hang Dieu Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi.
• Rating: 4.4/5 stars.
• Specialties: Located in the heart of the Old Quarter, Bun Thang Hang Đieu serves up authentic flavors in a bustling setting. Diners rave about the freshness of the ingredients and the quick service.

3. Bun Thang Mrs.Loan:

• Address: 19 Lo Duc Street, Hai Ba Trung District, Hanoi.
• Rating: 4.6/5 stars.
• Specialties:  Mrs.Loan’s Bun Thang is renowned for its aromatic broth and fresh toppings. The restaurant’s cozy ambiance and attentive staff make it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

4. Bun Thang Thanh Tri:

• Address: Thanh Xuan District, Hanoi (the exact address may vary).
• Rating: 4.7/5 stars.
• Specialties: Located in Thanh Tri District, this hidden gem is praised for its flavorful broth and tender chicken. The restaurant’s rustic charm and reasonable prices attract food enthusiasts from all over the city.

5. Bun Thang Le Ngoc Han:

• Address: 12 Le Ngoc Han Street, Hai Ba Trung District, Hanoi.
• Rating: 4.3/5 stars.
• Specialties: Situated in a bustling neighborhood, Bun Thang Le Ngoc Han offers a relaxed dining experience with delicious food and prompt service. Visitors appreciate the restaurant’s convenient location and authentic taste of Bun Thang.

Conclusion

This dish embodies Vietnamese cuisine’s essence—simple yet refined, nourishing yet nuanced. From street food stalls to high-end restaurants, Bun Thang resonates with diners, evoking nostalgia and cultural pride.

Beyond its local allure, Bun Thang has gained global acclaim, serving as an ambassador for Vietnamese culinary heritage. Through food festivals and social media, it introduces diners worldwide to Vietnam’s rich flavors and traditions, fostering appreciation and cross-cultural connections.

In essence, Bun Thang isn’t just a dish—it’s a testament to resilience, creativity, and community. By preserving and celebrating dishes like Bun Thang, we honor our culinary legacy and ensure its enduring legacy for generations to come.