Authentic Vietnamese Bún Chả Cá Basa Recipe

Ingredients

500g basa fish fillets
200g Vietnamese rice noodles
1 tablespoon turmeric powder
2 tablespoons fish sauce
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon pepper
1 tablespoon sugar
2 tablespoons cornstarch
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 liters of water
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
4 sprigs fresh dill, finely chopped
4 sprigs fresh cilantro, finely chopped
2 green onions, sliced
4 red chili peppers, sliced (optional)
2 limes, cut into wedges

Steps and instructions

Cut the basa fish fillets into bite-size pieces. Marinate them with turmeric powder, half of the fish sauce, salt, pepper, and sugar. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes.
After marinating, coat each piece of fish with cornstarch.
Heat the vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry the garlic and onion until they turn golden brown.
Add the marinated fish to the pan and fry until they become crispy and golden on all sides. Remove from heat and set aside.
Prepare the broth by bringing 2 liters of water to a boil. Add the rest of the fish sauce and sugar to taste.
Meanwhile, prepare the rice noodles according to the package instructions. Rinse under cold water and drain.
To serve, divide the noodles among the serving bowls. Top with the fried fish pieces. Pour the hot broth over the noodles and fish.
Garnish with fresh dill, cilantro, green onions, and red chili peppers. Serve with lime wedges on the side.

Tools for making

Cutting board - Used for preparing and cutting ingredients.
Knife - Essential for cutting the fish fillets and chopping vegetables.
Mixing bowl - Used for marinating the fish fillets.
Frying pan - Used to fry the fish fillets until crispy.
Pot - Used for boiling water and making the broth.
Tongs - Useful for flipping and removing the fish fillets from the pan.
Strainer - Used to rinse and drain the rice noodles.
Serving bowls - Used for presenting the dish.
Chopsticks or Forks - Utensils for eating the Bún Chả Cá Basa.
Lime squeezer - Optional but helpful for squeezing lime juice.

Recipe variations

Use a different type of fish, such as catfish or tilapia, instead of basa fish.
Replace the Vietnamese rice noodles with soba noodles or vermicelli noodles.
Add different spices or herbs to the marinade, such as lemongrass or ginger, for added flavor.
Make a vegetarian version by substituting the fish with tofu or tempeh.
Try a gluten-free alternative by using cornstarch or gluten-free flour for coating the fish.
Experiment with different toppings, like crushed peanuts, bean sprouts, or pickled vegetables.
Add a spicy kick by including Thai bird's eye chili peppers in the broth or as a garnish.
For a healthier option, grill the fish instead of frying it.
Create a different dipping sauce using ingredients like soy sauce, lime juice, and chili garlic sauce.
Include additional vegetables in the dish, such as sliced bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms.

Recipe overview

Bún Chả Cá Basa is a flavorful and comforting Vietnamese dish that features fried basa fish and rice noodles served in a savory broth. It's a dish that warms the soul, and perfect for when you want something light yet satisfying. Preparing Bún Chả Cá Basa involves marinating and frying the fish, preparing the broth, and assembling the dish with noodles and fresh herbs. It's a vibrant dish with a delightful combination of textures and flavors. Expect a wonderful mix of the crispiness of the fish, the softness of the noodles, the freshness of the herbs, and the tangy and savory taste of the broth. This recipe will guide you through each step to recreate this Vietnamese classic at home. Enjoy!

Common questions

What type of fish can I use for this recipe?
You can use basa fish fillets for this recipe.
How long should I marinate the fish?
It is recommended to marinate the fish for at least 30 minutes.
Can I use any other type of noodles instead of Vietnamese rice noodles?
While Vietnamese rice noodles are traditional for this dish, you can substitute with other types of noodles if desired.
How do I know when the fish is cooked?
The fish should be crispy and golden brown on all sides when cooked.
What can I garnish the dish with?
The dish can be garnished with fresh dill, cilantro, green onions, and red chili peppers.
Can I adjust the seasoning to my taste?
Yes, you can adjust the amount of fish sauce and sugar in the broth according to your preference.

Serving dishes and utensils

Mixing Bowl - Used for marinating the fish.
Frying Pan - Used for frying the fish.
Pot - Used for boiling water and making the broth.
Strainer - Used for rinsing and draining the rice noodles.
Tongs - Used for flipping and removing the fried fish.
Ladle - Used for pouring the hot broth over the noodles and fish.
Chopping Board - Used for chopping the garlic, onion, and herbs.
Knife - Used for mincing garlic, chopping onion, and cutting herbs.
Serving Bowls - Used for serving the dish.
Serving Spoons - Used for serving the dish.
Lime Squeezer - Used for squeezing lime wedges.

Origin stories

Bún Chả Cá Basa's origins lie in the heart of Vietnam, specifically in the coastal city of Da Nang. In a place where fishing is an integral part of everyday life, it's no surprise that locals have crafted a variety of ways to enjoy the bounty of the sea. Bún Chả Cá Basa, with its enticing combination of succulent basa fish and aromatic broth, pays homage to the simplicity of local ingredients and the culinary wisdom of generations past. The dish's potency lies in its balance of flavors, symbolizing the Vietnamese philosophy of yin and yang, where contrasting elements create a harmonious whole. The memories of the fishermen returning to shore after a long day at sea, their boats filled with fresh catch, ripple through every bowl served, bringing the vibrant spirit of Da Nang's seafaring culture to your table.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.