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Soupless Tom Yum Noodles

A comforting, hearty dish capturing the bold flavors of Tom Yum soup without the broth.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Thai
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Noodles and Proteins
  • 8 oz dry rice noodles Essential for the perfect foundation; choose high-quality rice noodles for best results.
  • 6 oz pork tenderloin, thinly sliced This adds a tender and flavorful protein; feel free to substitute with chicken or tofu for a twist.
  • 6 oz lean ground pork Gives a deliciously rich flavor; turkey can be an alternative.
  • 5.3 oz Asian style meatballs For an extra protein-packed boost.
Sauces and Seasonings
  • 2 teaspoons soy sauce Adds a savory depth; opt for low-sodium if you're watching your salt intake.
  • 1 tablespoon garlic oil You can use plain oil and sauté fresh garlic if desired.
  • 1 teaspoon fish sauce A quintessential ingredient for authentic Thai flavor.
  • 1.5 teaspoons fish sauce Additional depth in flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon chicken or pork bouillon powder Instant umami flavor.
  • 1/2 to 1 teaspoon roasted chili flakes Adjust according to heat preference.
  • 1/2 teaspoon granulated sugar Balances out the flavors and enhances the taste.
  • 1.25 teaspoons sugar A touch of sweetness to balance the spice.
Fresh Ingredients
  • 2 cups bean sprouts For a crunchy texture.
  • 20 sprigs cilantro, chopped Fresh herb flavor that elevates the dish.
  • 1/3 cup roasted peanuts, coarsely ground To add crunch and nuttiness.
  • 2 tablespoons fried garlic Crispy and delicious.
  • wedge lime for serving Never underestimate the zing of lime for finishing touches.
Other Ingredients
  • 8 cloves garlic, chopped The base aroma and flavor in the dish.
  • 1/3 cup neutral oil Needed for sautéing; can use sunflower or grapeseed oil.
  • 2 teaspoons lime juice Freshly squeezed for that zing!
  • 2 teaspoons ground dried shrimp (optional) For a more intense seafood flavor.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Soak the rice noodles in room temperature water for 30 minutes: This allows them to soften. Aim for pliable noodles—not mushy. Drain and set them aside.
  2. Marinate the pork: In a bowl, mix the sliced pork tenderloin with soy sauce and sugar, letting it sit for at least 10 minutes to absorb those flavors.
Cooking
  1. Cook the ground pork: Bring a pot of boiling water to a gentle boil, then cook the ground pork with fish sauce until fully cooked, about 3-4 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Asian meatballs: In a separate pot, cook the Asian style meatballs in boiling water for about a minute; they should be fully cooked and then set aside.
  3. Dunk the marinated pork: Briefly dunk the marinated pork in boiling water until cooked through—about 2-3 minutes—and then remove to preserve its juicy texture.
  4. Prepare the noodle sauce: In individual bowls, mix the reserved cooking liquid with sauce ingredients—this sauce is crucial for flavor.
  5. Cook each portion of soaked noodles: In boiling water, cook the noodles for just 10 seconds. Remove and shake off excess water—this ensures they remain chewy!
  6. Combine noodles with sauce: Add the noodles to each bowl with sauce, mix briefly until they’re well coated, and then top with the freshly rinsed bean sprouts.
Serving
  1. Load your bowls with sliced pork, meatballs, ground pork, peanuts, dried shrimp if using, crispy fried garlic, cilantro, and green onions.
  2. Serve immediately, don’t forget the lime wedges for that final zing just before digging in!

Notes

It's best to store the noodles and broth separately, layered with parchment paper if possible, to avoid sogginess. They can last in the fridge for up to three days.