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Soupless Tom Yum Noodles

A flavorful celebration of fresh and intense flavors makes these Soupless Tom Yum Noodles a quick and satisfying dish perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Thai
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

Noodles and Sauce Ingredients
  • 8 oz dry rice noodles Opt for high-quality rice noodles; they cook quickly and have a gratifying chewiness.
  • 2 teaspoons soy sauce Low-sodium recommended to avoid overpowering flavors.
  • 1/2 teaspoon granulated sugar Balances the acidity in the dish.
  • 1 teaspoon fish sauce Essential for authentic flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon garlic oil Homemade is ideal; infuse oil with minced garlic.
  • 2 teaspoons lime juice Freshly squeezed lime is crucial!
  • 1 1/2 teaspoon fish sauce For the sauce, enhances overall depth.
  • 1 1/4 teaspoon sugar Adjust to personal preference.
  • 1/2 teaspoon chicken or pork bouillon powder Lifts the flavors.
  • 1/2 to 1 teaspoon roasted chili flakes Spice it up as desired!
Meat and Toppings
  • 6 oz pork tenderloin Very thinly sliced; use a good quality cut for tenderness.
  • 5.3 oz Asian-style meatballs A fun addition to mix textures.
  • 6 oz lean ground pork or ground chicken For added richness.
  • 2 green onions chopped Adds freshness and slight bite.
  • 20 sprigs cilantro A must-have for authentic flavor.
  • 2 cups bean sprouts Freshness and crunch that elevate each bite.
  • 1/3 cup roasted peanuts Coarsely ground for crunch.
  • 2 tablespoons ground dried shrimp Optional, for an added umami factor.
  • 2 teaspoons fried garlic Crispy and fragrant!
Additional Ingredients
  • 8 cloves garlic Chopped; because garlic makes everything better!
  • 1/3 cup neutral oil For frying garlic and other cooking steps.
  • wedges lime for serving Essential for that refreshing burst!

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Soak the dry rice noodles in room temperature water for 30 minutes or until pliable. Drain when ready to cook.
  2. In a bowl, combine thinly sliced pork tenderloin with 2 teaspoons soy sauce and 1/2 teaspoon granulated sugar. Let it marinate while you prep other ingredients.
Cooking
  1. In a pot of boiling water, add ground pork along with 1 teaspoon fish sauce. Cook until done, then drain and reserve the cooking liquid.
  2. In serving bowls, mix garlic oil, lime juice, fish sauce, sugar, bouillon powder, and chili flakes.
  3. Heat neutral oil in a pot and fry the chopped garlic until golden. Strain and set the garlic oil aside.
  4. Boil water and cook the Asian-style meatballs briefly until heated through. Remove and keep warm.
  5. Dunk the marinated pork slices into boiling water briefly to ensure they cook through. Remove them and set aside.
  6. Cook soaked noodles in boiling water for just 7-10 seconds (do not overcook!). Immediately transfer to sauce in serving bowl and mix in bean sprouts.
Final Assembly
  1. Top the noodles with the pork, meatballs, ground pork, peanuts, dried shrimp (if using), fried garlic, fresh cilantro, and green onions.
  2. Finish with lime wedges for a zesty kick and enjoy your delightful Soupless Tom Yum Noodles!

Notes

Timing is vital; keeping your eye on the noodles ensures no mushiness. When frying garlic, take care to avoid burning it – we want crispy, not bitter! Remember to taste your sauce! Adjust acidity with more lime juice if desired.