Mi Quang

Short description

Mi Quang is a traditional Vietnamese noodle dish from Quảng Nam Province in Central Vietnam. It is made with turmeric-tinted rice noodles, a small but flavorful amount of broth, and topped with a variety of proteins, fresh herbs, peanuts, and crispy rice crackers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You will love Mi Quang because it is unlike most noodle soups. Instead of being heavy with broth, it balances rich flavors with freshness and texture. The turmeric noodles provide a golden color, the broth is fragrant and savory, and the toppings add crunch and vibrancy. Each bowl is hearty, refreshing, and full of character.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Broth & Protein

• Rice noodles (wide, turmeric-dyed if available)

• Pork (belly, ribs, or bones) and/or chicken

• Shrimp (preferably with heads for more flavor)

• Water or stock

• Fish sauce

• Garlic and shallots

• Black pepper and salt

• Turmeric powder

• Annatto oil or paprika oil

• Peanut oil

Garnishes & Toppings

• Fresh herbs: basil, cilantro, mint, lettuce, and Vietnamese coriander

• Banana blossom, thinly sliced (optional)

• Hard-boiled quail eggs or chicken/duck eggs

• Roasted peanuts, crushed

• Sesame rice crackers, broken into pieces

• Lime wedges

• Fresh chilies or chili sauce

directions

1. Prepare the broth by simmering pork bones and shrimp heads (if using) with garlic, shallots, turmeric, and seasoning for about 1–1.5 hours.

2. Sauté proteins such as pork, chicken, or shrimp in annatto oil with turmeric and fish sauce until aromatic, then add them to the broth near the end.

3. Cook the rice noodles until tender, then drain.

4. Assemble bowls by layering noodles, herbs, proteins, and eggs.

5. Add a small amount of broth—just enough to partially cover the ingredients.

6. Top with crushed peanuts, broken rice crackers, lime, and chilies before serving.

Servings and timing

• Serves: 4–6 people

• Prep time: about 30 minutes

• Cook time: 1–1.5 hours

Variations

• Chicken Mi Quang: Replace pork with braised chicken.

• Seafood Mi Quang: Use fish, crab cakes, or eel.

• Vegetarian Mi Quang: Make with vegetable broth, tofu, and mushrooms.

• Dry-style Mi Quang: Serve with very little broth, closer to a noodle salad.

storage/reheating

• Store broth and proteins in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 1 month.

• Keep noodles, herbs, and crackers separate for best texture.

• Reheat broth on the stove and pour over freshly prepared noodles and toppings.

FAQs

1. What makes Mi Quang unique?

It uses turmeric-dyed noodles, a small amount of broth, and unique toppings like peanuts and rice crackers.

2. Can I use regular rice noodles?

Yes, regular rice noodles work. Adding turmeric to the broth can help mimic the signature golden look.

3. Why is only a little broth used?

Mi Quang is meant to be eaten as a cross between noodles and soup, so only a shallow layer of broth is added.

4. Can I make Mi Quang vegetarian?

Yes, use vegetable broth and replace meat with tofu, mushrooms, or plant-based proteins.

5. What herbs are essential?

Fresh basil, mint, cilantro, and lettuce are most common.

6. How spicy is Mi Quang?

It is mildly spiced by default but can be made hotter with fresh chilies or chili sauce.

7. Can Mi Quang be made ahead?

Yes, you can prepare the broth and proteins in advance, but noodles and fresh herbs should be added just before serving.

8. Why are rice crackers added?

They provide crunch and contrast, enhancing texture and flavor.

9. What proteins are most traditional?

Pork and shrimp are most common, but chicken or fish are also traditional variations.

10. Is Mi Quang served on special occasions?

Yes, it is often prepared for family gatherings and festivals in Central Vietnam.

Conclusion

Mi Quang is a beautiful example of Central Vietnamese cuisine, combining fragrant broth, golden noodles, fresh herbs, and crunchy toppings. It is light yet satisfying, simple yet full of depth. Whether made with pork, shrimp, chicken, or a vegetarian twist, this dish captures the essence of Vietnamese flavors in every bite.