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Bun Oc

A classic Vietnamese snail noodle soup with a tangy tomato broth, fried tofu, and fresh herbs.

55 minMediumServes 4420 cal/serving

VietnameseSoupStovetopStandardHigh ProteinDairy-FreeNut-FreeEgg-FreeCorn-Free

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Ingredients

  • 1 lb canned snail meat, rinsed
  • 8 oz rice vermicelli noodles, boiled
  • 4 roma tomatoes, cut in wedges
  • 1 cup fried tofu, cubed
  • 6 cups chicken stock
  • 2 tbsp annatto oil
  • 2 shallots, minced
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tbsp fish sauce
  • 3 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1/2 cup fresh perilla leaves, thinly sliced

Instructions

  1. 1

    Heat 2 tbsp annatto oil in a pot over medium heat.

  2. 2

    Sauté 2 minced shallots and 4 minced garlic cloves for 2 minutes until fragrant.

  3. 3

    Add 4 cut in wedges roma tomatoes and cook for 3 minutes until softened.

  4. 4

    Pour in 6 cups chicken stock, 2 tbsp fish sauce, and 3 tbsp rice vinegar, then bring broth to a gentle simmer.

  5. 5

    Add 1 lb rinsed canned snail meat and 1 cup cubed fried tofu to broth, simmering until snails reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

  6. 6

    Divide cooked 8 oz boiled rice vermicelli noodles into bowls, ladle broth over top, and garnish with 1/2 cup thinly sliced fresh perilla leaves.

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Questions

What internal temperature should Bun Oc reach?

For Bun Oc, the target internal temperature is 165 F (about 75 C), given in step 5. A probe thermometer removes the guesswork.

What can I use instead of achiote in Bun Oc?

The entry for Bun Oc calls for 2 tbsp annatto oil. In its place: Mix paprika with a pinch of turmeric and a few drops of vinegar for the color and mild earthiness.

Can I use a different firmness of tofu instead of tofu in Bun Oc?

Go firmer, not softer. Extra-firm stands in for firm anywhere; anything softer breaks up when it is fried or stirred. Press it for 15 minutes either way. As written, the entry for Bun Oc uses 1 cup fried tofu, cubed.

How much protein is in Bun Oc?

One serving (the recipe makes 4) has 26 g of protein in about 420 calories, alongside 54 g carbohydrate and 12 g fat, plus 3 g fiber and 1050 mg sodium. The figures are estimates computed from the ingredient list. More like it: the high-protein soup collection.

Can I freeze Bun Oc?

Yes. Refrigerate Bun Oc for up to four days, or freeze it in portions for up to three months. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or stock to loosen it. The noodles will go on swelling in the broth; for the best texture on day two, store that part separately or cook it fresh.

Serve it with

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