Hanoi Noodle Soup

Akin to the Vietnamese soups known as pho and usually made with beef, this anise- and cinnamon-scented soup is equally good with chicken or with no meat at all. Rice noodles are sold in Asian markets and many supermarkets, and can be softened by soaking in hot water.

Servings: 4 main-course servings

Total Time: About 1 hour

INGREDIENTS:

• 8 cups beef, chicken, or vegetable stock
• 4 star anise
• 1 3-inch cinnamon stick
• 1-inch piece fresh ginger
• 1 onion, quartered (unpeeled)
• 4 cloves
• 1 pound rice vermicelli
• 1/2 pound boneless, skinless chicken or beef (preferably sirloin, tenderloin, or round), thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons nam pla (Thai fish sauce) or soy sauce
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Salt
• Chopped fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
• Lime wedges
• 1 fresh jalapeño chile, seeded and minced

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. In a large, deep saucepan or casserole, combine the stock, star anise, cinnamon stick, ginger, onion, and cloves over high heat. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook undisturbed for 20 to 60 minutes, depending on your available time. The longer it simmers, the more flavorful the broth will be. Once done, strain the broth and return it to the saucepan.
2. Place the rice vermicelli in a bowl and cover it with hot water. Let it soak until soft, usually for 15 to 30 minutes. Rinse the soaked noodles under cold water for about a minute and drain them.
3. Bring the strained broth to a steady simmer. Add the chicken or beef slices to the pot and cook for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Divide the soaked rice vermicelli among 4 large bowls.
5. Season the simmering broth with nam pla (or soy sauce) and plenty of freshly ground black pepper. Taste the broth and adjust the seasoning by adding salt or more seasoning if needed.
6. Pour the hot broth and meat over the noodles in each bowl.
7. Garnish the soup with chopped cilantro leaves.
8. Serve the Hanoi Noodle Soup with lime wedges and minced jalapeño chile on the side, allowing each person to add their desired amount of lime juice and spice to their bowl.

VARIATION:

• Quick Asian Noodle Soup with Pork: Season the broth and soak the noodles as directed. Cook the broth for only 20 minutes. Instead of using uncooked chicken or beef, add Braised Pork with Spicy Soy Sauce (half recipe) along with some of its liquid to the broth. Omit the nam pla. Season and proceed with the recipe.

Indulge in the flavors of Vietnam with a comforting bowl of Hanoi Noodle Soup. This fragrant and hearty dish, reminiscent of pho, is infused with the warm aromas of star anise and cinnamon. Whether you choose chicken, beef, or opt for a meatless version, the tender slices of protein meld perfectly with the delicate rice vermicelli. Garnished with fresh cilantro and served with lime wedges and minced jalapeño chile on the side, this soup offers a vibrant and customizable dining experience. From the first spoonful to the last, Hanoi Noodle Soup will transport you to the bustling streets of Vietnam, leaving you satisfied and craving more.