How to Make Vietnamese Fish Soup with Tomatoes
Vietnamese fish soup, also known as canh ca, is a flavorful dish that combines fresh fish, aromatic herbs, and tangy tomatoes. This soup is not just easy to make but also offers a delightful balance of tastes that is sure to satisfy your palate. Follow this recipe to create your very own Vietnamese fish soup with tomatoes.
Ingredients
- 400g white fish (tilapia, catfish, or any firm white fish)
- 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 liter water
- Fresh herbs (cilantro and green onions for garnish)
- Chili peppers (optional for heat)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Fish
Begin by cleaning and filleting the fish. Rinse it under cold water and pat it dry with a paper towel. Cut the fish into bite-sized pieces. Season the fish with salt and pepper, then set it aside.
2. Sauté Aromatics
In a pot over medium heat, add vegetable oil. Once hot, sauté the minced garlic and sliced onion until they become fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes. This step builds a strong flavor base for your soup.
3. Add Tomatoes
Add the chopped tomatoes to the pot and continue to sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes begin to soften. This will enhance the freshness and acidity in the soup.
4. Make the Soup Base
Pour in 1 liter of water and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Stir in the fish sauce for seasoning, adjusting to your taste preference.
5. Cook the Fish
Gently add the fish pieces to the pot. Let the soup simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the fish is cooked and flakes easily with a fork. Avoid stirring too much to keep the fish intact.
6. Final Seasoning
Once the fish is cooked through, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add more fish sauce, salt, or black pepper to enhance the flavors according to your liking.
7. Garnish and Serve
Remove the pot from heat and ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and green onions. For those who prefer some spice, add sliced chili peppers on top.
Enjoy Your Vietnamese Fish Soup
This Vietnamese fish soup with tomatoes is perfect for a light lunch or dinner, and pairs well with steamed rice or crusty bread. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and the delicious medley of fresh ingredients!
By mastering this recipe, you’ll not only impress your family and friends but also bring a taste of Vietnam into your home kitchen. Happy cooking!