Bún Bò Huế – The Spicy, Flavorful Noodle Soup from Central Vietnam

If you’re a fan of bold, aromatic, and spicy noodle soups, then Bún Bò Huế is a dish you need to try. While Phở may be Vietnam’s most famous soup, Bún Bò Huế holds a special place in the hearts of those who crave deep, complex flavors with a spicy kick. Originating from the city of Huế, the former imperial capital of Vietnam, this dish is a true representation of the region’s rich culinary traditions.

What Makes Bún Bò Huế Special?

At its core, Bún Bò Huế is a spicy beef and pork noodle soup that features a rich, fragrant broth infused with lemongrass, chili, shrimp paste, and beef bones. Unlike phở, which has a delicate and slightly sweet broth, Bún Bò Huế’s broth is bold, spicy, and deeply savory, with a slight tang from fermented shrimp paste.

A classic bowl of Bún Bò Huế usually includes:

• Tender beef shank & brisket – Slow-simmered to absorb all the broth’s flavors.
• Vietnamese pork loaf (chả Huế) – A slightly chewy, peppery pork sausage unique to Huế cuisine.
• Thick round rice noodles – yUnlike the flat rice noodles of phở, these noodles are cylindrical and have a springy bite.