Name: Vietnamese Noodles with Lemongrass Chicken
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 600 - 800 g chicken thigh fillets, skinless and boneless or breast (or pork, beef or any seafood); 1 stalk lemongrass, white part only (bruised and sliced into pieces); 2 cloves garlic (finely chopped or minced); 2 tbsp lime juice; 2 tbsp fish sauce; 1 tbsp soy sauce (all purpose or light, NOT dark soy); 2 tbsp brown sugar; 1 tbsp vegetable oil; 1/4 cup fish sauce; 4 tbsp rice vinegar; 2 tbsp white sugar; 1/2 cup water; 2 cloves garlic (finely chopped); 1 red birds eye chilli (finely chopped); 3 tbsp lime juice; 1/2 tbsp oil; 200 g vermicelli noodles, dried; 2 carrots (julienned); 2 cucumbers (julienned (optional: remove seeds)); 5 cups iceberg lettuce (finely sliced); 3 cups bean sprouts; Handful mint leaves; Handful cilantro/coriander; Sliced red chilli (for garnish - optional); lime wedges (to serve - optional but recommended)

Introduction to Vietnamese Noodles with Lemongrass Chicken

Why Homemade Vietnamese Noodles?

There's something truly special about preparing Vietnamese Noodles with Lemongrass Chicken at home. For starters, crafting this dish yourself allows you to control the quality of ingredients, making your meal as fresh and flavorful as possible. While eating out can be a treat, you often miss the unique depth of flavors that comes from homemade cooking.

Did you know that lemongrass, which is a star ingredient in this recipe, is not just tasty but also offers impressive health benefits? It aids digestion and has anti-inflammatory properties, making it a fantastic addition to any meal. Plus, making your own noodles gives you the option to customize them to your liking.

Navigating through the ingredients might feel a tad intimidating at first, but don't worry! The marinade for the chicken and the accompanying sauce use many of the same items, simplifying the process.

If you're curious about elevating your weeknight dinners or planning a small gathering, this dish is a perfect choice. It's versatile, allowing you to adapt with different proteins like beef or shrimp, and it’s a hit with everyone, from foodies to picky eaters.

Let's dive into this incredible world of Vietnamese flavors!

Ingredients for Vietnamese Noodles with Lemongrass Chicken

Chicken and Marinade
For this delightful dish, you'll want about 600 to 800g of chicken thigh fillets—skinless and boneless is ideal! The key to infusing that signature Vietnamese flavor is the lemongrass marinade. Use one stalk of lemongrass (bruised and cut into chunks), combined with garlic, lime juice, fish sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, and a splash of vegetable oil. Letting the chicken marinate for at least an hour (or even overnight) will elevate the flavor, making it absolutely irresistible.

Nuoc Cham (Vietnamese Sauce)
No Vietnamese meal is complete without Nuoc Cham! This vibrant dipping sauce combines fish sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, water, minced garlic, and a touch of red chili for some heat. Adjust the ingredients to match your taste for sweetness or spice—don't hesitate to play around with them!

Noodle Bowl
For a fitting base, use 200g of dried vermicelli noodles. Add a colorful mix of julienned carrots and cucumbers, fresh lettuce, bean sprouts, and fragrant herbs like mint and cilantro. Serve with a lime wedge for an extra zesty touch and enjoy your Vietnamese Noodles with Lemongrass Chicken!

For a deeper understanding of Vietnamese cuisine, check out resources like VietnameseCuisine.org.

Preparing Vietnamese Noodles with Lemongrass Chicken

Creating a delicious bowl of Vietnamese noodles with lemongrass chicken might sound daunting at first, but I promise the steps are straightforward and enjoyable! Let’s dive into this flavorful journey together.

Marinate the Chicken

Start by preparing your marinade for the chicken. Combine the chicken thigh fillets with finely chopped lemongrass, garlic, lime juice, fish sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, and vegetable oil. This mixture is packed with flavors, and the longer you let the chicken marinate, the tastier it becomes! Aim for at least one hour, but if you can, let it soak overnight to really absorb those aromatic herbs.

Did you know that marinating not only enhances flavor but also tenderizes the meat? According to Chef John from Food Wishes, even a short marination period can dramatically improve your dish!

Cook the Lemongrass Chicken

When you're ready to cook, heat a little vegetable oil in a fry pan over medium heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, making sure to shake off any large bits of lemongrass (you want those in the marinade to infuse flavor but not be chewy). Cook each side for about 3-4 minutes until it is beautifully golden brown and cooked through. This will provide a gorgeous caramelization that adds depth to your Vietnamese noodles with lemongrass chicken.

Once cooked, set the chicken aside to rest for five minutes. This step allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is juicy and tender.

Prepare the Nuoc Cham Sauce

While the chicken is resting, whip up the lively Nuoc Cham sauce. Combine fish sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, water, garlic, chili, and lime juice in a bowl. Mix well until the sugar dissolves. Feel free to adjust the ingredients according to your taste preferences. Want it spicier? Add more chili! A touch more lime juice can brighten the flavors even further. This versatile dressing is a staple in Vietnamese cuisine and will elevate your noodle bowl!

Soak the Vermicelli Noodles

Next, it’s time to prepare the vermicelli noodles. Soak them in hot water for about three minutes or according to the package instructions. After soaking, rinse them under cold water to prevent sticking. Pro tip: this cold rinse stops the cooking process and keeps the noodles perfectly al dente—ideal for your noodle bowl.

Assemble Your Noodle Bowl

Finally, it’s time to put everything together! In your bowl, layer the vermicelli noodles and top them with the julienned carrots, cucumbers, and a generous handful of fresh mint and cilantro. Slice the chicken and arrange it beautifully on top. Drizzle a good amount of the Nuoc Cham sauce over everything—don’t be shy! Serve with lime wedges for that extra zest.

Assembling your Vietnamese noodles with lemongrass chicken can be a fun DIY experience. Lay all the ingredients out on the table and let your family or friends build their perfect bowl!

Enjoy this delightful and aromatic dish that captures the vibrancy of Vietnamese cuisine while satisfying your taste buds!

Variations on Vietnamese Noodles with Lemongrass Chicken

Alternative Proteins

While this dish highlights Vietnamese Noodles with Lemongrass Chicken, you can effortlessly switch up the protein to suit your cravings or dietary needs. Consider using:

Beef: Thinly sliced beef adds an unexpected richness and works beautifully with the marinade.
Shrimp: Quick-cooking shrimp absorb the amazing flavors of lemongrass and garlic in just a few minutes.
Turkey Bacon: For a touch of smokiness, try using turkey bacon as a crispy topping; it adds texture while keeping the dish lighter.

Vegetarian Options

Feeling like going meat-free? Embrace the vibrant flavors of this dish with some delicious vegetarian alternatives. Swap the chicken for:

Tofu: Firm tofu, marinated and grilled or pan-fried, brings a satisfying protein punch.
Mushrooms: Portobello or shiitake mushrooms add umami and a meaty texture while soaking up the marinade.
Veggie Mix: Use an array of colorful vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or zucchini to create a hearty and vibrant bowl.

Mix and match these ideas for your next noodle night, and watch your friends and family rave about the variations! For more inspiration, check out Minimalist Baker's vegan recipes for delightful vegetarian twists.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Vietnamese Noodles with Lemongrass Chicken

Preparing Lemongrass

To get the best from your lemongrass, start by peeling away the tough outer layers to reveal the tender white part. Use the back of a knife to bruise it, which releases those aromatic oils. Aim for larger pieces; they’re easier to remove later. If you're in a pinch, you can substitute it with lemongrass paste, though fresh is always best for flavor!

Substitutions and Customizations

Feel free to get creative! You can swap chicken with beef, pork, or even seafood. Don’t have all the veggies? Try snow peas or bell peppers instead. If you want it milder, set the chili on the side for individual preferences. And for a gluten-free version, just use tamari instead of soy sauce. Make this meal your own!

Serving suggestions for Vietnamese Noodles with Lemongrass Chicken

Individual servings vs. DIY style

When it comes to Vietnamese Noodles with Lemongrass Chicken, you have two delightful serving options. For an elegant presentation, serve individual bowls where each portion includes a nest of vermicelli noodles topped with vibrant vegetables, herbs, and perfectly sliced lemongrass chicken, finished off with a drizzle of nuoc cham sauce.

Alternatively, embrace the social side of dining with a DIY style. Set up a vibrant spread with all the ingredients on a big table and let everyone create their personalized noodle bowl. It’s a fun, engaging way to enjoy the meal together!

Recommended pairings

Enhance your dining experience by serving your Vietnamese Noodles with Lemongrass Chicken alongside fresh spring rolls or crispy egg rolls for a delightful appetizer. A crisp Asian cucumber salad brings a refreshing crunch, while lime wedges add a zesty brightness. For beverages, consider serving iced tea or coconut water to complement the dish's bold flavors perfectly.

Feeling adventurous? Toss in some roasted peanuts or crispy shallots as toppings to add extra texture. Enjoy!

Time Breakdown for Vietnamese Noodles with Lemongrass Chicken

Preparation Time

To get started on your Vietnamese Noodles with Lemongrass Chicken, set aside about 20 minutes for preparation. This includes marinating the chicken and prepping your veggies.

Cooking Time

Once you’re prepped, the actual cooking takes only 10 minutes. A quick sauté and some noodle soaking is all it takes to create a delicious dish.

Total Time

In total, you’ll spend around 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!

This speedy process makes it easy to enjoy a flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. If you're a fan of vibrant flavors and healthy meals, check out more tips and techniques on cooking Asian cuisine from experts like Serious Eats or Vietnamese Cooking.

Nutritional Facts for Vietnamese Noodles with Lemongrass Chicken

When it comes to enjoying a delicious meal that doesn't compromise on health, Vietnamese Noodles with Lemongrass Chicken is a standout choice. Here’s a quick overview of its nutritional benefits:

Calories

Each serving packs about 540 calories, making it a satisfying dish that’s great for fueling your day.

Protein

With approximately 39.9 g of protein, this meal is a fantastic source of protein, perfect for muscle repair and growth, especially if you’re active or hitting the gym regularly.

Sodium

Be mindful of the 1,963 mg of sodium per serving. While it enhances the flavors, you might want to balance this with lower-sodium choices throughout your day.

For a deeper dive into nutrition and healthy eating, check out resources like the USDA's dietary guidelines. Enjoy this flavorful dish guilt-free, knowing it's a wholesome option!

FAQ about Vietnamese Noodles with Lemongrass Chicken

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Making Vietnamese Noodles with Lemongrass Chicken gluten-free is simple! Just swap the regular soy sauce for gluten-free tamari. Additionally, ensure that your fish sauce and any other condiments are gluten-free as well. You can also check out this guide on gluten-free Asian cooking for more tips on ingredient substitutes!

What can I use instead of fish sauce?

If you're not a fan of fish sauce or have dietary restrictions, you can substitute it with soy sauce or a homemade mix of soy sauce and a dash of lime juice for a similar umami flavor. For a vegetarian option, try using a mushroom-based soy sauce. You’ll still get a great flavor without compromising the dish.

How do I store leftovers?

Leftovers from Vietnamese Noodles with Lemongrass Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, keep the noodles and toppings separate until you’re ready to enjoy them again. When reheating, a quick stir in a pan or microwave will do the trick!

Conclusion on Vietnamese Noodles with Lemongrass Chicken

In summary, Vietnamese Noodles with Lemongrass Chicken is a delightful dish that balances vibrant flavors with wholesome ingredients. Perfect for meal prep or a special gathering, this recipe brings the joy of Vietnamese cuisine right to your table. Try it, savor it, and enjoy the compliments!