Bun bo Hue is a traditional Vietnamese soup that is known for its spicy and savory flavors. It is made with beef, pork, and a variety of herbs and spices, including lemongrass, chili peppers, and shrimp paste. Many people believe that this soup can help alleviate cold and flu symptoms, making it a popular choice for those who are feeling under the weather.
So, is bun bo hue good when sick? While there is no scientific evidence to support the idea that bun bo Hue can cure a cold or flu, many people swear by its healing properties. The spicy broth is believed to help clear sinuses and reduce congestion, while the protein-rich ingredients help to boost the immune system. Additionally, the warm and comforting nature of the soup can provide a sense of relief and comfort when you are feeling sick.
What is Bun Bo Hue?
Bun Bo Hue is a traditional Vietnamese noodle soup that originates from the city of Hue in central Vietnam. This beef noodle soup is known for its spicy and savory broth, which is made by simmering beef shank, pork bones, lemongrass, and shrimp paste for hours. The soup is then served with thick rice noodles, herbs, and other toppings.
The name “Bun Bo Hue” literally means “Hue-style beef noodle soup” in Vietnamese. The dish is similar to pho, another popular Vietnamese noodle soup, but with a distinct flavor profile that sets it apart.
The broth of Bun Bo Hue is what makes it stand out. It has a deep, rich flavor that comes from the combination of beef, pork, and aromatic spices. The lemongrass and shrimp paste add a unique tanginess and umami flavor to the broth. The soup is typically served with a variety of toppings, including sliced beef shank, pork blood, bean sprouts, onions, and garlic.
Bun Bo Hue is a hearty and satisfying dish that is perfect for a cold or rainy day. It is also believed to have medicinal properties and is often recommended as a cure for a cold or flu. The combination of hot broth, spicy chilies, and aromatic herbs is said to help clear congestion and boost the immune system.
Overall, Bun Bo Hue is a delicious and comforting dish that is beloved by many Vietnamese people and food enthusiasts around the world. If you’re looking for a flavorful and satisfying meal, give this traditional Vietnamese noodle soup a try!
The History of Bun Bo Hue
Bun Bo Hue is a Vietnamese dish that originated in the former capital of Vietnam, Hue. The city of Hue was once the seat of the Nguyen Dynasty, and the dish was created in the royal court. The dish is a spicy soup made with a combination of beef bones, pork knuckles, and oxtail. It is seasoned with annatto seed, ginger, lemongrass, and Thai chili to give it a unique flavor.
Bun Bo Hue is typically served with rice vermicelli noodles, congealed pork blood, and a variety of vegetables such as banana flower, cilantro, and green onion. The soup is garnished with Thai basil and sate sauce, and sometimes crab balls and blood cake are added to the mix.
The dish is known for its spicy and bold flavors, and it has become a popular Vietnamese dish around the world. Anthony Bourdain, a famous chef and TV personality, once described it as “the best soup in the world.”
In Vietnam, Bun Bo Hue is often eaten for breakfast or lunch, and it is believed to have medicinal properties that can help cure a variety of illnesses. The dish is especially popular among those who are feeling under the weather, as it is believed to help clear congestion and boost the immune system.
Overall, Bun Bo Hue is a delicious and flavorful Vietnamese dish that has a rich history and is enjoyed by many around the world.
What are the Ingredients of Bun Bo Hue?

Bun Bo Hue is a traditional Vietnamese soup that is known for its spicy and bold flavors. This soup is known to have a variety of ingredients that work together to create a unique and delicious taste. Some of the key ingredients that are commonly found in Bun Bo Hue include:
- Beef: This soup is typically made with beef shank or brisket, which adds a rich and savory flavor to the broth.
- Lemongrass: This herb is used to infuse the broth with a fresh and citrusy flavor.
- Shrimp paste: This ingredient is used to add a salty and umami flavor to the soup.
- Annatto: This spice is used to give the soup its distinctive red color.
- Garlic and onions: These aromatics are used to add depth and flavor to the broth.
- Bean sprouts: These are added to the soup as a garnish and provide a crunchy texture.
- Fish sauce: This is a key ingredient in many Vietnamese dishes and is used to add a salty and savory flavor to the broth.
- Rice noodles and vermicelli: These noodles are used to give the soup its signature texture and are typically served at the bottom of the bowl.
- Pork blood: This ingredient is used to add richness and depth to the broth.
- Red cabbage: This is used as a garnish and adds a pop of color to the dish.
- Mint, banana blossom, basil, and shallots: These herbs are used as garnishes and add a fresh and aromatic flavor to the soup.
Overall, Bun Bo Hue is a delicious and satisfying soup that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you are feeling under the weather or simply looking for a hearty and flavorful meal, this soup is sure to hit the spot.
How is Bun Bo Hue Prepared?

Bun Bo Hue is a Vietnamese noodle soup that is popularly known for its spicy and flavorful broth. The soup is made with a combination of beef shank, pork bones, and oxtail, which are simmered for several hours to create a rich and savory broth.
To infuse the soup with a fragrant aroma, lemongrass and annatto seeds are added to the broth. Garlic and onions are also added to enhance the flavor of the soup.
The soup is typically served with bean sprouts, fish sauce, and rice noodles or vermicelli. Pork blood and red cabbage are also commonly added to the soup to provide a unique texture and flavor.
To add a fresh and herbaceous flavor to the soup, mint, banana blossom, basil, and Vietnamese coriander are added as garnishes. Shallots and lemon water are also added to provide a tangy and refreshing flavor to the soup.
For those who love spicy food, chili oil and perilla are added to the soup to give it a kick. Purple cabbage and rice vermicelli are also added as toppings to provide a colorful and appetizing presentation.
In some variations of Bun Bo Hue, beef brisket, crab balls, and blood cake are added to the soup to provide additional protein and flavor.
Overall, Bun Bo Hue is a delicious and nutritious soup that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just craving a hearty bowl of soup, Bun Bo Hue is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Is Bun Bo Hue Good for You?

Bun Bo Hue is a popular Vietnamese soup that is made with beef, lemongrass, and various spices. Many people believe that this soup can help to cure colds and other illnesses, but is there any truth to this claim?
Health Benefits
Bun Bo Hue contains a variety of ingredients that are believed to have health benefits. For example, lemongrass is thought to have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help to reduce pain and swelling. Additionally, the beef in the soup is a good source of protein, which is important for building and repairing tissues in the body.
Nutritional Value
Bun Bo Hue is also a relatively healthy soup option. One serving of this soup typically contains around 250-300 calories, depending on the specific recipe. It also contains a good amount of fiber, which can help to keep you feeling full and satisfied.
Overall, while there is no definitive evidence that Bun Bo Hue can cure illnesses, it does contain a variety of ingredients that are believed to have health benefits. Additionally, it is a relatively healthy soup option that can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.
Is Bun Bo Hue Good When Sick?

Bun Bo Hue is a Vietnamese soup that is known for its spicy broth and umami flavors. But did you know that it can also help you when you’re feeling under the weather? Here’s how:
Cure for the Common Cold
Bun Bo Hue is a spicy soup that can help clear out your sinuses and relieve congestion. The broth contains a variety of herbs and spices, including lemongrass, ginger, and chili peppers, which are known for their anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. These ingredients can help boost your immune system and fight off the common cold.
Soothing and Comforting
When you’re sick, you may not have much of an appetite. But Bun Bo Hue can be a comforting and soothing meal that is easy to digest. The vermicelli noodles are soft and easy to swallow, while the broth is warm and nourishing. The umami flavors can also help stimulate your taste buds and make food more appealing.
Hydrating and Nutritious
When you’re sick, it’s important to stay hydrated and nourished. Bun Bo Hue is a great source of hydration, as the broth is mostly water. It also contains a variety of vegetables and protein, including pork, beef, and shrimp, which can provide essential nutrients to help you recover.
In summary, Bun Bo Hue can be a great option when you’re feeling sick. The spicy broth can help clear out your sinuses and boost your immune system, while the comforting and nourishing qualities can help soothe your body and make you feel better overall.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bun Bo Hue a good soup for when you’re sick?
Yes, Bun Bo Hue is a great soup option when you’re feeling under the weather. It is a spicy Vietnamese soup that is packed with flavor and nutrients that can help you feel better.
What are the benefits of eating Bun Bo Hue when you’re sick?
Eating Bun Bo Hue when you’re sick can provide your body with essential nutrients and vitamins that can help boost your immune system. It is also a great source of protein, which can help your body recover faster.
What makes Bun Bo Hue a good choice for illness recovery?
Bun Bo Hue is a good choice for illness recovery because it contains a variety of ingredients that can help your body fight off infections and viruses. It is also easy to digest, which can be helpful when you’re feeling nauseous or have a stomach ache.
What are the health benefits of Bun Bo Hue?
Bun Bo Hue is a healthy soup option that can provide your body with a variety of nutrients and vitamins. It contains protein, fiber, vitamin C, iron, and other essential vitamins and minerals that can help boost your immune system and improve your overall health.
Can Bun Bo Hue help with cold and flu symptoms?
Yes, Bun Bo Hue can help with cold and flu symptoms. The soup contains spicy ingredients like chili peppers and ginger, which can help clear your sinuses and relieve congestion. It can also help soothe a sore throat and provide your body with essential nutrients to help fight off the virus.
What kind of ingredients are in Bun Bo Hue that make it good for when you’re sick?
Bun Bo Hue contains a variety of ingredients that make it a great choice for when you’re sick. It typically includes beef, pork, shrimp, lemongrass, chili peppers, ginger, and other spices and herbs that can help boost your immune system and improve your overall health.