How to Make Vietnamese Pork Soup for a Hearty Dinner

Are you looking to warm up your dinner table with a delicious and hearty meal? This Vietnamese pork soup, or "Canh," is a perfect choice! Packed with flavor and nutrients, this dish is simple to prepare and will surely impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to make this comforting soup.

Ingredients

To start, gather the following ingredients:

  • 500g pork shoulder or pork belly, cut into small pieces
  • 1 medium onion, sliced
  • 3 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 2 liters of water
  • 3-4 fresh tomatoes, quartered
  • 1-2 medium carrots, sliced
  • 1 stalk of lemongrass, smashed and cut into pieces
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh herbs (like cilantro or green onions) for garnish
  • Fish sauce (optional, for added depth)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

Start by preparing the pork. Cut it into small, manageable pieces for quick cooking. Next, slice the onion, mince the garlic, and quarter the tomatoes. Don’t forget to slice the carrots into thin rounds for even cooking.

2. Create the Broth

In a large pot, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent. Then, add the pork pieces to the pot, cooking until they are browned on all sides.

3. Add Water and Lemongrass

Pour in the 2 liters of water and toss in the smashed lemongrass. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to let it simmer. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

4. Incorporate Vegetables

After 30 minutes of simmering, add the quartered tomatoes and sliced carrots to the pot. This not only adds sweetness but also leaves you with a deliciously vibrant soup.

5. Season to Taste

Allow the soup to cook for another 20-30 minutes. Once the vegetables are tender, season with salt, pepper, and a splash of fish sauce, if desired, to enhance the flavor.

6. Serve and Garnish

Once ready, remove the lemongrass pieces from the soup. Ladle the hot Vietnamese pork soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro and sliced green onions. A squeeze of lime can also add an extra zing!

Serving Suggestions

This hearty Vietnamese pork soup is perfect to serve with a side of steamed rice or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth. It can also be accompanied by fresh chili slices for those who like extra heat.

Conclusion

Making Vietnamese pork soup at home is an easy way to bring a taste of Vietnam into your kitchen. With its robust flavors and tender pork, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy your warm, hearty dinner!