Step 1

In a medium saucepan, heat oil (2 tbsps) over medium-high. Add chopped shallots (2 tbsps) and garlic (2 tbsps). Sauté for about 20 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2

Stir in soy sauce (2 tbsps), oyster sauce (3 tbsps), tomato sauce (5 tbsps), ground black pepper (1/2 tsp), sugar (3 tbsps), MSG (1/4 tsp), and stock (1 cup). Let it come to a gentle simmer.

Step 3

In a small bowl, mix tapioca starch (1 tsp) with water (1 tbsp) until fully dissolved. Slowly pour the slurry into the simmering sauce. Once the mixture starts to bubble, remove the pan from heat and set aside. The slurry will thicken the mixture more once cooled.

Step 4

In your hủ tiếu bowl, with your choice of noodles and toppings, add a generous spoonful of sauce. If you like it spicy, add Vietnamese chili sauce and pickled jalapenos. Mix everything together and enjoy.