How to Make Vietnamese Clear Soup with Tofu
Vietnamese clear soup, also known as “Canh,” is a delightful and nutritious dish known for its lightness and subtle flavors. This particular recipe focuses on making a clear soup with tofu, which adds a wonderful texture and protein component. Here’s how to create this delicious meal at home.
Ingredients
- 1 block of firm tofu
- 4 cups of vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1-2 carrots, sliced
- 1 cup of leafy greens (such as spinach or bok choy)
- 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon of sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (cilantro or green onions)
Instructions
Prepare the Tofu
Start by pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture. Wrap the tofu block in a clean kitchen towel and place a heavy object on top for about 15-20 minutes. Once pressed, cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes.
Sauté Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onions become translucent and fragrant, approximately 3-5 minutes.
Add Broth and Vegetables
Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and bring it to a gentle boil. Once boiling, add the sliced carrots and allow to simmer for about 5 minutes, or until they begin to soften.
Incorporate Tofu and Greens
Carefully add the cubed tofu to the simmering broth. Allow it to cook for an additional 5-7 minutes so that the tofu absorbs the flavors. Lastly, add the leafy greens and soy sauce, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the greens are wilted.
Season and Serve
Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Once ready, ladle the Vietnamese clear soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or chopped green onions for added flavor and presentation.
Tips for the Best Vietnamese Clear Soup
- Fresh ingredients: Use fresh vegetables for the best flavor and nutritional value.
- Customizable: Feel free to add other vegetables you enjoy, such as mushrooms or bell peppers.
- Flavor depth: If you want more depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of fish sauce along with the soy sauce.
Enjoy your homemade Vietnamese clear soup with tofu as a light meal or a starter. Its soothing flavor is perfect for any day and will undoubtedly impress your family and friends!