Bún Tôm Cát Bà

1. Introduction:

Bún tôm Cát Bà (Cat Ba Shrimp Noodle Soup) is a beloved specialty of Cat Ba Island, located in Hai Phong, Vietnam. This dish is not only a popular breakfast choice for locals but also a must-try for tourists who want to experience the authentic flavors of the island. With its light yet flavorful broth and fresh seafood ingredients, bún tôm represents the coastal charm of Cat Ba cuisine.

2. Characteristics and Ingredients:

What makes bún tôm Cát Bà special is its use of freshly caught shrimp from the surrounding waters. The shrimp are boiled just enough to retain their sweetness and firm texture. The broth is clear, light, and naturally sweet thanks to the combination of shrimp, pork bones, and aromatic herbs.
Main ingredients include:

  • Fresh shrimp (tôm biển)

  • Thin rice vermicelli noodles (bún)

  • Pork bones for the soup base

  • Fresh herbs such as coriander, perilla, and green onions

  • Fried shallots, chili, lime, and fish sauce for seasoning

The bowl is often topped with a few slices of pork, shrimp, and a handful of fragrant herbs, creating a balance of color and flavor.

3. How to Enjoy:

Bún tôm is best enjoyed hot, ideally in the morning. Diners often add a squeeze of lime and a bit of chili to enhance the flavor. The dish offers a perfect harmony of savory broth, the sweetness of shrimp, and the freshness of herbs. It is light but satisfying, making it a great option for both breakfast or a light lunch. Many visitors to Cat Ba say that no trip is complete without a bowl of this comforting noodle soup.