How to Make Vietnamese Fish and Crab Hot Pot
Vietnamese Fish and Crab Hot Pot, also known as "lẩu cá kèo," is a delightful dish that showcases the vibrant flavors of Vietnamese cuisine. This hot pot features a tantalizing broth paired with fresh seafood, herbs, and vegetables, making it a perfect meal for gatherings and special occasions. Here's your ultimate guide on how to make this delicious dish at home.
Ingredients
To prepare Vietnamese Fish and Crab Hot Pot, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 kg fresh fish (like catfish or tilapia)
- 500g crab, cleaned and cut in half
- 1 liter fish stock or water
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
- 2-3 slices ginger
- 2-3 red bird’s eye chilies, to taste
- 100g tamarind paste or juice
- 200g mushrooms (shiitake and enoki work well)
- 200g bean sprouts
- 100g water spinach (rau muống) or other greens
- Fresh herbs (cilantro, mint, and Thai basil)
- Fish sauce, to taste
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Broth
In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sliced onions, sautéing until fragrant. Then, stir in the bruised lemongrass and ginger slices.
Pour in the fish stock or water, and bring to a simmer. Next, add the tamarind paste (or juice) and season with salt, pepper, and fish sauce. Let the broth simmer for about 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 2: Add Seafood
Once the broth is ready, carefully add the fresh crab halves and let them cook for about 5-7 minutes. The crabs should turn bright orange, indicating they're fully cooked. Then, gently add the fish pieces, ensuring they don’t break apart. Cook until the fish is just done, about 10 minutes.
Step 3: Prepare the Vegetables
While the seafood is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Rinse the bean sprouts, water spinach, and any other greens you might want to add. Arrange these on a large platter along with the mushrooms and fresh herbs.
Step 4: Serve Hot
Once everything is cooked, transfer the pot to a portable stove at the dining table for a fun hot pot experience. Guests can help themselves to the seafood, and add various vegetables and herbs into their bowls as they enjoy the broth. Remember to keep the broth simmering as you eat!
Step 5: Enjoy with Dipping Sauces
Vietnamese Fish and Crab Hot Pot is traditionally served with a variety of dipping sauces. Prepare a simple sauce with fish sauce, lime juice, minced chili, and sugar for an authentic experience. Enjoy the hot pot with steamed rice or rice noodles for a complete meal.
Tips for the Perfect Hot Pot
- Use the freshest seafood possible for the best flavor.
- Adjust the herbs and vegetables according to your personal preference.
- Experiment with different spices to enhance the broth.
Making Vietnamese Fish and Crab Hot Pot at home is a joyous process that brings people together. Enjoy the rich flavors and the interactive dining experience that this dish offers!