Bun Cha (Grilled Pork with Rice Noodles)

Bun cha is Hanoi’s answer to a perfect summer meal: smoky grilled pork over cool rice noodles, drowned in a sweet-tart dipping broth. President Obama ate it with Anthony Bourdain at a tiny sidewalk shop, but locals have loved it forever. It is the kind of dish that tastes like charcoal smoke and sunshine. Every Hanoi family has its favorite marinade, and this one is a keeper.

Smoky grilled pork in a sweet, tangy, herb-fresh broth

The pork comes in two forms — rich belly slices and juicy grilled patties — both charred at the edges and marinated in lemongrass, fish sauce, and garlic. You dunk the noodles and herbs into the savory-sweet broth with the pork, so every bite is warm, cold, smoky, and bright all at once. Build the dipping sauce to your taste, balancing sugar, vinegar, and lime. Cold noodles, hot pork, and a tangy sauce make it a complete meal in a bowl. Messy, loud, and completely wonderful, this is a bowl made for sharing.

Craving more? Explore all Vietnamese Kitchen recipes.

New to these flavors? Our Beginner’s Guide to Asian Sauces & Seasonings explains every pantry staple used here.

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