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Yunnan Rice Noodles Soup Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.3 from 28 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Chinese (Yunnan)
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Yunnan Rice Noodles Soup is a comforting and hearty Chinese noodle soup featuring wide rice noodles in a flavorful chicken or pork broth, topped with tender sliced meat, bean sprouts, pickled mustard greens, and fresh garnishes. This traditional Yunnan-style dish is perfect for a warming meal with bold, savory flavors balanced by tangy black vinegar and optional chili oil for spice.


Ingredients

Soup and Broth

  • 6 cups chicken or pork broth
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • Salt to taste

Noodles and Protein

  • 7 ounces dried rice noodles (preferably Yunnan-style or wide rice noodles)
  • 1/2 pound thinly sliced pork loin or chicken breast

Toppings and Garnishes

  • 1/2 cup bean sprouts
  • 1/4 cup pickled mustard greens, chopped
  • 2 green onions, sliced
  • 1 tablespoon Chinese black vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 2 teaspoons chili oil (optional)
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
  • Crushed peanuts for garnish (optional)


Instructions

  1. Prepare Rice Noodles: Soak the dried rice noodles in warm water for 30 minutes until softened. If using fresh noodles, simply rinse them to separate.
  2. Heat Broth: In a large pot, bring the chicken or pork broth to a gentle boil. Add the minced garlic, soy sauce, and a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor.
  3. Cook Meat: Add the thinly sliced pork or chicken to the boiling broth and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until just done, ensuring the meat remains tender and juicy.
  4. Simmer Broth: Reduce the heat to low to maintain a gentle simmer while you prepare the noodles and toppings.
  5. Cook Noodles: In a separate pot, cook the soaked rice noodles for 2 to 3 minutes until tender but still chewy, then drain them thoroughly to prevent sogginess.
  6. Assemble Bowls: Divide the cooked noodles evenly into serving bowls. Top with the cooked meat slices, bean sprouts, pickled mustard greens, and sliced green onions.
  7. Ladle Broth: Pour the hot broth over the noodles and toppings in each bowl to warm everything through.
  8. Add Finishing Touches: Drizzle each bowl with Chinese black vinegar, sesame oil, and chili oil if desired to add depth and spicy heat.
  9. Garnish and Serve: Optionally, garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and crushed peanuts for added texture and flavor. Serve the soup hot and enjoy.

Notes

  • Yunnan-style rice noodles are thicker and chewier, but any wide rice noodle will work well.
  • Adjust toppings based on availability; sautéed mushrooms, tofu, or bok choy are excellent additions for variety.
  • For a richer broth, simmer with a piece of ginger and a dried chili to add extra depth of flavor before cooking the meat.
  • If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute vegetable broth and omit the meat, adding tofu or additional vegetables instead.
  • Chili oil is optional; adjust the amount or omit to suit your spice preference.