How to Make Bananas in Coconut Milk (Nam Van Kuay)

fish sauce

🥗Healthier: soy sauce

💰Cheaper: salt + vinegar

Soy sauce offers a similar umami flavor while being easier to find.

chicken

🥗Healthier: tofu

💰Cheaper: canned tuna

Tofu provides a protein alternative for vegetarians.

pork

🥗Healthier: chicken breast

💰Cheaper: ground turkey

Ground turkey is often less expensive and leaner.

lime

🥗Healthier: lemon

💰Cheaper: vinegar

Lemon can substitute lime for acidity.

Soak rice noodles in warm water until softened, about 30 minutes.

Boil water in a large pot and add soaked noodles, cooking until tender, about 3-5 minutes.

Drain noodles and set aside in a bowl.

In the same pot, heat vegetable oil over medium heat and sauté garlic and ginger until fragrant, about 2 minutes.

Add chicken and pork to the pot, cooking until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Pour in broth and bring to a simmer, about 10 minutes.

Stir in fish sauce, lime juice, and sugar, adjusting to taste.

Add bean sprouts and simmer for an additional 2 minutes.

Serve the broth over the noodles in bowls, garnished with green onions, cilantro, and chili.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level:

Allergens