Vietnamese Style Meatball Noodle Soup

Step 1

Combine the chicken broth, star anise, cloves, cinnamon stick, fish sauce, sriracha and lime juice in a stockpot over medium heat.

Step 2

Slice the ginger into 1/4-inch thick pieces and smash them gently with the flat side of a knife. Do the same with the garlic, add both to the broth and bring it to a slow simmer. Cover and cook for 30 minutes.

Step 3

While the broth simmers, combine the ground chicken, panko, cornstarch, fish sauce, lime juice and garlic in a mixing bowl.

Step 4

Form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and set aside. Tip: This mixture is very sticky. Wet your hands in cool water to make rolling the meatballs easier.

Step 5

Place the rice noodles in a large bowl and cover with hot water. Allow to soak until soft and pliable, 10 to 12 minutes, drain and divide between four serving bowls (see notes).

Step 6

Using a large slotted spoon, remove the spices, ginger and garlic from the broth and turn up the heat to bring it to a rapid simmer.

Step 7

Begin adding meatballs, a few at a time, letting each batch cook for about 1 minute before adding more.

Step 8

Continue simmering until the meatballs are cooked through, 6 to 7 minutes.

Step 9

To finish, top each bowl of noodles with a portion of the scallions and cilantro. Ladle the meatballs and broth over top. Add a lime wedge and serve immediately.