Bhojpuri-style Tomato and Crab Noodle Soup

Ingredients

In this Bhojpuri adaptation of Bún riêu, we incorporate Bhojpuri flavors and spices to create a unique twist on the original Vietnamese dish. The use of Bhojpuri spices adds a distinct aroma and taste to the soup, while the addition of crab enhances the seafood element. The flavors are bolder and spicier, reflecting the preferences of Bhojpuri cuisine. We alse have the original recipe for Bún riêu, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) crab meat 500g (1.1 lb) crab meat
• 4 tomatoes, diced 4 tomatoes, diced
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 2 green chilies, finely chopped 2 green chilies, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• Salt to taste Salt to taste
• 200g (7 oz) rice noodles 200g (7 oz) rice noodles
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Fresh mint leaves, for garnish Fresh mint leaves, for garnish
• Lemon wedges, for serving Lemon wedges, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 5g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 45g, 5g
• Protein: 25g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
2. 2.
   Add minced garlic, grated ginger, and chopped green chilies to the pot. Sauté for a minute until fragrant.
3. 3.
   Add diced tomatoes to the pot and cook until they soften and release their juices.
4. 4.
   In a separate bowl, mix cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Add this spice mixture to the pot and stir well.
5. 5.
   Add the crab meat to the pot and mix it with the tomato mixture. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the crab is cooked through.
6. 6.
   Meanwhile, cook the rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
7. 7.
   Once the crab is cooked, add water to the pot and bring the soup to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
8. 8.
   To serve, place a portion of rice noodles in a bowl and ladle the hot soup over it. Garnish with fresh cilantro and mint leaves. Serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Crab meat — Ensure that the crab meat is fresh and properly cleaned before using it in the recipe. Remove any shells or cartilage to ensure a smooth texture in the soup.

Tips & Tricks

• If you prefer a spicier soup, increase the amount of green chilies or add a dash of chili sauce.
• Adjust the consistency of the soup by adding more water if desired.
• For a vegetarian version, replace the crab meat with tofu or mushrooms for a similar texture.

Serving advice

Serve the Bhojpuri-style Tomato and Crab Noodle Soup hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and mint leaves. Squeeze a lemon wedge over the soup just before eating to add a tangy kick.

Presentation advice

Present the Bhojpuri-style Tomato and Crab Noodle Soup in individual bowls, with the vibrant red broth and the noodles visible. Garnish with a sprig of fresh cilantro and a few mint leaves for an appealing touch.