Bun Moc Recipe

Chef Nora Benson

12 Jun, 2023

Bun Moc Recipe: A Flavorful Vietnamese Delight to Savor

Bun Moc

Publisher: Lofty Recipes
Cuisine: Vietnamese
Category: Main dish, Soup
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 300 calories

About this recipe

Bun Moc is a delightful Vietnamese noodle soup that combines flavorful broth, tender meatballs, and rice vermicelli noodles. It's a dish that's often enjoyed as a comforting and satisfying meal.

The star of the dish is the meatballs, which are made from a mixture of ground pork and finely chopped mushrooms. The combination of wood ear mushrooms and dried shiitake mushrooms gives the meatballs a unique and earthy taste. The meatball mixture is seasoned with garlic, shallots, fish sauce, cornstarch, sugar, salt, and black pepper to enhance the flavors.

To make the soup, a fragrant broth is prepared by simmering chicken or pork broth with sliced onions, ginger, and garlic. This allows the flavors to meld together, creating a rich and savory base for the soup. The broth is further seasoned with fish sauce, sugar, salt, and pepper to achieve a delicious balance of flavors.

Once the broth is ready, the meatballs are gently dropped into the simmering liquid and cooked until they are fully cooked through. This ensures that the meatballs become tender and infused with the flavors of the broth. It takes about 10 to 12 minutes for the meatballs to cook perfectly.

To serve Bun Moc, cooked rice vermicelli noodles are placed in bowls. The hot broth, along with the meatballs, is then ladled over the noodles.

The dish is traditionally garnished with fresh bean sprouts, fragrant herbs like cilantro, mint, and Thai basil, lime wedges for a tangy kick, and optionally sliced chili peppers for those who enjoy a spicy kick. Green onions can also be added as a flavorful topping.

Bun Moc can be customized to individual preferences by adding additional condiments like crispy fried shallots or crushed peanuts for added texture and flavor.

Recipe origin and background

Bun Moc is a traditional Vietnamese dish that has its roots in Vietnamese cuisine. It is believed to have originated in the northern region of Vietnam, particularly in and around Hanoi, where it is commonly enjoyed as a popular street food and a comforting home-cooked meal.

Vietnamese cuisine is known for its balance of flavors, vibrant herbs, and fresh ingredients. Bun Moc reflects these characteristics by combining aromatic broth, flavorful meatballs, and a variety of toppings.

The dish showcases the creativity and ingenuity of Vietnamese cuisine in creating a harmonious blend of tastes and textures.

While the exact origin story of Bun Moc is not widely documented, it is thought to have evolved over time through the culinary traditions and influences within Vietnam. The use of mushrooms, such as wood ear mushrooms and dried shiitake mushrooms, in the meatballs adds a unique twist to the dish and is likely influenced by the abundance and variety of mushrooms available in Vietnamese cuisine.

Bun Moc has gained popularity not only in Vietnam but also internationally, as Vietnamese cuisine has gained recognition and appreciation worldwide. It has become a beloved dish among locals and visitors alike, who savor its comforting flavors and the satisfaction of slurping up the noodles in the flavorful broth.

Today, Bun Moc is a versatile dish that can be found in Vietnamese restaurants and street food stalls, both in Vietnam and in Vietnamese communities around the world.

It represents the rich culinary heritage of Vietnam and continues to be enjoyed by people seeking a taste of authentic Vietnamese flavors.

Why try this Bun Moc recipe?

Delicious and Unique Flavor: Bun Moc offers a delightful combination of flavors, with a savory broth, flavorful meatballs, and aromatic herbs. It's a taste experience that is both comforting and satisfying.
Versatile and Customizable: While the recipe provides a traditional base, you can personalize it to your preferences. You can adjust the seasoning, spice level, and toppings to suit your taste. Add your favorite condiments or experiment with additional garnishes to make it your own.
Easy to Make: The recipe is relatively simple and straightforward, making it accessible for home cooks of various skill levels. The ingredients are commonly found in many grocery stores, and the steps are easy to follow. You'll be able to enjoy a homemade Vietnamese noodle soup without a lot of hassle.
Nourishing and Balanced Meal: Bun Moc combines protein from the meatballs, carbohydrates from the rice vermicelli noodles, and a variety of fresh herbs and vegetables. It's a well-rounded dish that provides a satisfying and nourishing meal option.
Cultural Exploration: Trying new recipes allows you to explore different cuisines and experience the flavors of different cultures. Bun Moc is a classic Vietnamese dish, and by preparing it at home, you can immerse yourself in the culinary traditions of Vietnam and gain a deeper appreciation for Vietnamese cuisine.
Impress Your Guests: If you're hosting a gathering or simply want to impress your family and friends, serving a homemade Bun Moc can be a delightful surprise. It's a unique and flavorful dish that is sure to impress and satisfy your guests.

In few words, trying the Bun Moc recipe gives you an opportunity to enjoy a delicious and authentic Vietnamese dish, explore new flavors, and expand your culinary skills. So go ahead and give it a try for a tasty and fulfilling meal experience!

What does Bun Moc taste like?

Bun Moc offers a delicious blend of flavors that combine to create a uniquely satisfying taste. The dish has a savory and aromatic broth that serves as the foundation for the flavors to unfold. The broth, made from chicken or pork broth infused with onions, ginger, and garlic, has a rich and comforting quality.

The meatballs in Bun Moc are a highlight of the dish. They are tender and flavorful, with a combination of ground pork and finely chopped mushrooms. The wood ear mushrooms and dried shiitake mushrooms contribute an earthy and umami taste to the meatballs, elevating their flavor profile.

The combination of herbs and toppings further enhances the taste of Bun Moc. Fresh bean sprouts add a refreshing and crunchy element, while fragrant herbs such as cilantro, mint, and Thai basil provide a burst of freshness and aroma. Lime wedges bring a tangy and citrusy note, balancing the savory flavors of the broth and meatballs.

The rice vermicelli noodles in Bun Moc are soft and chewy, acting as a neutral base that absorbs the flavors of the broth and toppings. They add a textural element to each bite, complementing the tender meatballs and creating a satisfying mouthfeel.

In a nutshell, Bun Moc delivers a harmonious combination of savory, umami, fresh, and tangy flavors. The broth is rich and aromatic, the meatballs are flavorful, and the toppings add layers of freshness and texture. It's a dish that offers a comforting and balanced taste experience, making it a beloved choice among Vietnamese cuisine enthusiasts.

What is in Bun Moc?

Ground Pork: Ground pork is the base for making the meatballs in Bun Moc. It adds flavor and texture to the dish.
Wood Ear Mushrooms: Wood ear mushrooms are a type of edible fungus that have a crunchy texture and mild flavor. They provide a unique earthy taste to the meatballs.
Dried Shiitake Mushrooms: Dried shiitake mushrooms have an intense umami flavor. When rehydrated and finely chopped, they add depth and richness to the meatballs.
Onion: Onion is used in the broth to infuse it with flavor. It adds a subtle sweetness to the soup base.
Ginger: Ginger is a fragrant and aromatic ingredient that is commonly used in Vietnamese cuisine. It adds a warm and slightly spicy note to the broth.
Garlic: Garlic is a staple ingredient in many dishes, including Bun Moc. It provides a pungent and savory flavor to the broth and meatballs.
Fish Sauce: Fish sauce is a key ingredient in Vietnamese cuisine. It adds a salty and umami flavor to the broth and meatballs, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
Rice Vermicelli Noodles: Rice vermicelli noodles are thin, translucent noodles made from rice flour. They have a soft and chewy texture, serving as the base for the soup.
Bean Sprouts: Bean sprouts are crisp and refreshing, adding a crunchy element to the dish. They provide a contrast of texture and freshness.
Fresh Herbs (Cilantro, Mint, Thai Basil): Fresh herbs such as cilantro, mint, and Thai basil are traditional garnishes for Bun Moc. They bring a burst of freshness, aroma, and vibrant flavors to the dish.
Lime Wedges: Lime wedges are served on the side and squeezed into the soup before eating. They add a tangy and citrusy element that balances the savory flavors.

Equipment required for this recipe

Large Pot: A large pot is essential for making the broth. It should be able to hold the broth and accommodate the meatballs.
Mixing Bowl: A mixing bowl is necessary for combining the ingredients for the meatballs. It should be large enough to comfortably mix and shape the meatball mixture.
Knife and Cutting Board: You'll need a knife and cutting board to chop ingredients such as onions, ginger, garlic, and mushrooms. A sharp chef's knife works well for this.
Measuring Spoons: Measuring spoons are helpful for accurately measuring the spices and seasonings.
Ladle: A ladle is used to portion out the broth and meatballs when serving the soup.
Soup Bowls: Bowls are needed for serving the Bun Moc. Make sure the bowls are large enough to hold the soup and noodles.

How to make Bun Moc

Discover an authentic Bun Moc recipe, a delightful Vietnamese soup with tender meatballs and aromatic broth. Perfect for a satisfying meal!

Ingredients

Rice vermicelli noodles, cooked according to package instructions
Bean sprouts
Fresh herbs (cilantro, mint, Thai basil)
Lime wedges
Chili peppers, sliced (optional)
Green onions, sliced

Instructions

In a large pot, add the chicken or pork broth, onion, ginger, garlic, fish sauce, sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil and then reduce the heat to simmer. Let the broth simmer for about 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
In a bowl, combine the ground pork, wood ear mushrooms, shiitake mushrooms, garlic, shallot, fish sauce, cornstarch, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Wet your hands with water and shape the meat mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. You should get around 20-24 meatballs.
Carefully drop the meatballs into the simmering broth. Let them cook for about 10-12 minutes or until they are fully cooked through.
While the meatballs are cooking, prepare the rice vermicelli noodles according to the package instructions.
Once the meatballs are cooked, remove the pot from the heat.
To serve, place a portion of cooked rice vermicelli noodles into a bowl. Ladle the hot broth with meatballs over the noodles. Add bean sprouts, fresh herbs, lime wedges, sliced chili peppers (if desired), and green onions on top.
Serve the Bun Moc hot and enjoy!

Feel free to adjust the seasoning according to your taste. You can also add other toppings such as crispy fried shallots or crushed peanuts for added flavor and texture. Enjoy your homemade Bun Moc!

How to serve Bun Moc

Prepare the Rice Vermicelli Noodles: Cook the rice vermicelli noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain them and set them aside.
Set Up Toppings and Garnishes: Prepare the bean sprouts, fresh herbs (cilantro, mint, Thai basil), lime wedges, sliced chili peppers (optional), and sliced green onions. Arrange them on a platter or in individual bowls for easy access during serving.
Warm the Broth: If the broth has cooled down, gently reheat it on the stovetop until it reaches a desired serving temperature. Make sure to keep it hot for serving.
Portion the Noodles: Divide the cooked rice vermicelli noodles into individual serving bowls. The amount can vary based on personal preference, but a moderate portion is typically used.
Ladle the Broth: Using a ladle, pour the hot broth with meatballs over the noodles in each bowl. Make sure to distribute the meatballs evenly among the bowls.
Add Toppings: Encourage your guests to customize their bowls by adding bean sprouts, fresh herbs, lime wedges, sliced chili peppers (if desired), and sliced green onions on top of the broth and meatballs. They can adjust the amounts based on their taste preferences.
Serve and Enjoy: Once the toppings have been added, the bowls of Bun Moc are ready to be served. Place the bowls on a serving tray or bring them directly to the table. Your guests can squeeze the lime wedges into their bowls and mix the ingredients together before enjoying the flavorful soup.

Don't forget to provide spoons and chopsticks for your guests to eat the Bun Moc comfortably.

Serving Bun Moc family-style allows everyone to customize their bowls according to their preferences, making it an interactive and enjoyable dining experience. Enjoy the delicious flavors and textures of Bun Moc as you savor each spoonful!

Rated: 4.9 of 5.0 from 928 reviews.

Recipe Tags: Bun Moc, Bun Moc Recipe, Recipe, Top rated

What to serve Bun Moc with

Bun Moc is a satisfying and flavorful dish on its own, but if you'd like to complement it with additional dishes, here are some traditional Vietnamese accompaniments that can be served alongside:

Spring Rolls: Fresh or fried spring rolls make a great appetizer or side dish to enjoy with Bun Moc. They are typically filled with a combination of vegetables, herbs, and sometimes shrimp or pork, wrapped in rice paper.
Vietnamese Dipping Sauce (Nuoc Cham): A small bowl of Nuoc Cham, a tangy and savory Vietnamese dipping sauce, can be served alongside Bun Moc. It's made with fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, garlic, and chili peppers. The sauce adds an extra burst of flavor to both the soup and any accompanying dishes.
Pickled Vegetables: Vietnamese pickles, known as Do Chua, are commonly served as a side dish or condiment. They are typically made from thinly sliced carrots and daikon radish marinated in a mixture of vinegar, sugar, and salt. The refreshing and tangy pickles provide a nice contrast to the rich flavors of Bun Moc.
Fresh Vietnamese Salad: A light and refreshing Vietnamese salad, such as a Green Papaya Salad or Mango Salad, can be served as a side dish. These salads feature a mix of shredded or julienned vegetables, herbs, and a tangy dressing, adding a fresh and vibrant element to the meal.
Steamed Vegetables: A simple side of steamed vegetables, such as broccoli, bok choy, or snap peas, can provide a healthy and nutritious addition to the meal. The mild flavors of the vegetables can complement the robust flavors of the Bun Moc.
Vietnamese Iced Coffee: To round off the meal, you can serve Vietnamese Iced Coffee as a refreshing beverage. It's made with strong Vietnamese coffee, sweetened condensed milk, and ice. The rich and creamy coffee pairs well with the flavors of the meal.

My recommendations and tips

Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh ingredients to maximize the flavors of the dish. Fresh herbs, quality ground pork, and vibrant vegetables will contribute to the overall taste and appearance of the Bun Moc.
Adjust Seasonings to Taste: The provided recipe offers a general guideline for seasonings, but feel free to adjust them according to your preferences. Taste the broth and meatball mixture as you go and add more fish sauce, salt, or other seasonings as needed to achieve the desired balance of flavors.
Don't Overcook the Meatballs: When forming the meatballs, be careful not to overmix or overwork the mixture. Overworking can result in dense and tough meatballs. Mix until the ingredients are well combined, but avoid excessive handling.
Experiment with Toppings and Garnishes: While the recipe suggests bean sprouts, fresh herbs, lime wedges, sliced chili peppers, and sliced green onions as toppings, you can get creative and add other ingredients that you enjoy. Sliced cucumbers, shredded lettuce, or even a fried egg can be delightful additions.
Serve Piping Hot: To fully enjoy the flavors and warmth of the dish, serve Bun Moc piping hot. Ensure that both the broth and meatballs are hot when serving. Preheat your serving bowls to help keep the soup hot for longer.
Customize for Dietary Preferences: If you have dietary restrictions or preferences, feel free to make adaptations to the recipe. For example, you can use ground chicken or turkey instead of pork, or use vegetable broth to make it vegetarian or vegan. Be creative and make it your own.
Make Ahead and Storage: Bun Moc is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the broth and meatballs in advance and refrigerate them separately. When ready to serve, heat the broth and reheat the meatballs before assembling the bowls.
Enjoy the Process: Cooking is a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in the joy of creating a delicious meal. Embrace the process, have fun, and savor the experience of making Bun Moc from scratch. Enjoy the aromas, the textures, and the flavors as you bring this traditional Vietnamese dish to life.

By following these recommendations and tips, you'll be well on your way to creating a flavorful and satisfying bowl of Bun Moc. Enjoy the journey and the delightful outcome!

Potential ingredients substitutes

Ground Meat: Instead of ground pork, you can use ground chicken, ground turkey, or even ground beef as a substitute. The choice of ground meat can alter the flavor profile slightly, but it can still be delicious.
Mushrooms: If you can't find wood ear mushrooms or dried shiitake mushrooms, you can substitute them with other types of mushrooms that are readily available to you. Cremini mushrooms or button mushrooms can work well as alternatives. While the taste may differ slightly, they will still provide a nice texture and earthy flavor.
Broth: The traditional broth for Bun Moc is made from chicken or pork. However, if you prefer a different type of broth, you can use vegetable broth as a substitute. Vegetable broth will provide a lighter and milder flavor compared to the meat-based broths, but it can still work well in creating a tasty soup.
Toppings and Garnishes: The toppings and garnishes for Bun Moc can be customized based on personal preferences and ingredient availability. If bean sprouts aren't accessible, you can use thinly sliced cucumbers or shredded lettuce for a similar crunchy element. If you can't find Thai basil, regular basil can be used as a substitute. Feel free to get creative with the toppings and use ingredients you enjoy or have on hand.
Noodles: If you can't find rice vermicelli noodles, you can substitute them with other types of Asian noodles such as egg noodles or even thin spaghetti. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor may differ slightly, but it can still be a tasty alternative.

Additional note

Variations: Bun Moc is a versatile dish, and you may come across different regional variations or personal adaptations. Some versions may include additional ingredients such as sliced pork, tofu, or even seafood like shrimp or squid. These variations can add unique flavors and textures to the dish, so don't hesitate to explore and experiment.
Adjusting Spice Level: If you prefer a spicier broth, you can add sliced chili peppers or chili sauce to the soup during the cooking process. This will give it a hint of heat. Alternatively, you can offer chili sauce or chili flakes as condiments on the side, allowing individuals to adjust the spiciness according to their taste preferences.
Broth Intensity: The depth and intensity of the broth can be enhanced by simmering it for a longer time. If you have the luxury of time, you can simmer the broth for an hour or more, allowing the flavors to meld together and develop further. Just make sure to monitor the liquid level and adjust with additional water or broth if needed.
Meal Customization: Bun Moc is often enjoyed as a main course meal, but you can also customize it to suit your preferences. For a heartier meal, you can add additional protein sources like sliced cooked chicken, pork, or tofu. You can also serve it alongside Vietnamese side dishes or appetizers for a more complete dining experience.
Leftovers: If you have leftovers, you can store the broth and meatballs separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Reheat the broth on the stovetop and gently warm the meatballs before serving. The noodles and toppings are best enjoyed fresh, so you may want to prepare those separately as needed.
Cultural Significance: Bun Moc is a popular Vietnamese dish that reflects the rich culinary heritage of the country. It is often enjoyed as a comforting and nourishing meal, suitable for both everyday dining and special occasions. Embracing the cultural significance and history of the dish can add an extra layer of appreciation to your cooking and dining experience.

Final Remark

Indulge in the aromatic flavors of Bun Moc, a Vietnamese soup that will tantalize your taste buds. With its tender meatballs and savory broth, it's a dish worth savoring. Try this brilliant recipe today and delight in a bowl of Vietnamese culinary excellence!