Saigon Harmony Bowl
About the Saigon Harmony Bowl
The Saigon Harmony Bowl, a flavorful, vibrant dish, is a perfect representation of the fusion of tastes and cultures that make up Vietnamese cuisine. Inspired by the bustling street food culture of Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), this dish combines fresh herbs, grilled meats, and seasoned vegetables to create a symphony of flavors in each bowl. The rich history of Vietnam, with its influences from French and Chinese cuisine, can be tasted in the harmonious blend of ingredients and techniques used in this recipe. Traditionally enjoyed as a communal dish, the Saigon Harmony Bowl brings people together to appreciate the balance and harmony of sweet, sour, salty, and umami notes.
Ingredients
- Vermicelli noodles - 200g
- Chicken breast - 2 pieces
- Lemongrass - 2 stalks
- Fish sauce - 4 tablespoons
- Soy sauce - 2 tablespoons
- Brown sugar - 2 tablespoons
- Garlic - 4 cloves
- Ginger - 1-inch piece
- Carrot - 1 large, julienned
- Cucumber - 1 sliced
- Bean sprouts - 100g
- Mint leaves - a handful
- Cilantro - a handful
- Red chili - 1, sliced
- Roasted peanuts - 50g, chopped
- Lime - 1, juiced
- Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
Preparation
Marinating the Chicken
Begin by preparing the chicken breast. Slice it into thin strips and set them in a bowl. In a mortar and pestle, crush the lemongrass, garlic, and ginger until it becomes a paste. Add 2 tablespoons of fish sauce, 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, and 1 tablespoon of brown sugar to the paste. Mix well and pour over the chicken slices, ensuring they are well coated. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
Preparing the Vegetables
Julienne the carrot and slice the cucumber. Set aside these vibrant vegetables, along with a bowl of fresh bean sprouts. These will add a crisp texture to our bowl.
Noodle Preparation
In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add the vermicelli noodles and cook as per the package instructions, or until tender. Typically, it takes about 4-5 minutes. Once cooked, drain and rinse the noodles under cold water to stop the cooking process and to separate them. Set aside.
Cooking the Chicken
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken breast strips to the skillet. Sear until the chicken is golden brown and completely cooked, approximately 6-8 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. Once done, remove the chicken from the heat.
Assembling the Saigon Harmony Bowl
- Begin with a base of vermicelli noodles in each bowl.
- Top the noodles with the cooked chicken slices.
- Add layers of carrot, cucumber, and bean sprouts.
- Sprinkle chopped mint leaves and cilantro over the top.
- Garnish with sliced red chili and roasted peanuts for a spicy and crunchy element.
Final Touches
In a small bowl, combine the remaining 2 tablespoons of fish sauce, 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, and 1 tablespoon of brown sugar. Add the juice of one lime to the mixture and stir until sugar dissolves. Drizzle this dressing over the assembled bowls for a perfect touch of tanginess.
How to Enjoy Your Saigon Harmony Bowl
Savor the Saigon Harmony Bowl with chopsticks to fully experience the cultural authenticity of this dish. Each bite should be a mix of textures and flavors - the softness of the noodles, the crunch of the vegetables, and the juiciness of the chicken breast. The fresh herbs combined with the delightful sauce will transport you to the lively streets of Saigon. It's a balanced meal best enjoyed fresh, warm, and in the company of friends or family, reflecting the communal spirit of Vietnamese meals. Consider timing your preparation and dining experience with a cooking timer to ensure everything is served at its peak freshness.