How to Make Vietnamese Fish Soup with Lemongrass

Vietnamese Fish Soup with Lemongrass, known as 'Canh Chua Ca', is a flavorful and aromatic dish that showcases the vibrant taste of Vietnamese cuisine. This simple yet delicious soup is not only refreshing but also nutritious. Below, you’ll find a step-by-step guide on how to prepare this delightful soup.

Ingredients

To make Vietnamese Fish Soup with Lemongrass, gather the following ingredients:

  • 500g of white fish (like catfish or tilapia)
  • 2 stalks of lemongrass
  • 1 medium onion
  • 2-3 tomatoes
  • 1 cup of pineapple chunks (optional)
  • 200g of bean sprouts
  • Fresh herbs (such as cilantro and Thai basil)
  • Fish sauce (to taste)
  • Salt and pepper (to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
  • 2 liters of water

Preparation Steps

1. Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by cleaning the fish under running water and cutting it into pieces. Next, peel and finely chop the onion. Cut the tomatoes into wedges and slice the lemongrass stalks into 2-inch sections, smashing them lightly to release their flavor.

2. Make the Broth

In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and lemongrass, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.

Next, pour in the 2 liters of water and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, add the fish pieces carefully, letting them cook for about 5-7 minutes or until they are cooked through. Skim off any foam that rises to the surface to keep the broth clear.

3. Add the Vegetables

Once the fish is cooked, add the tomatoes and pineapple chunks to the pot. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes, ensuring the tomatoes soften and the flavors meld together.

Add the bean sprouts and season the soup with fish sauce, salt, and pepper to taste. Let the soup simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes before turning off the heat.

4. Serve and Garnish

To serve, ladle the Vietnamese fish soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh herbs, like cilantro and Thai basil, for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy it with steamed rice or on its own as a comforting meal.

Tips for the Best Vietnamese Fish Soup

For an enhanced flavor, consider using different types of fish or adding other vegetables like okra or mushrooms. Adjust the level of fish sauce according to your taste preference, and don’t hesitate to experiment with the herbs used for garnish.

Enjoy your homemade Vietnamese Fish Soup with Lemongrass, a dish that brings the flavors of Vietnam right to your kitchen!