How to Make Vietnamese Duck Soup (Canh Vit)
Canh Vit, or Vietnamese Duck Soup, is a delightful culinary masterpiece that combines savory flavors and aromatic herbs, typical of Vietnamese cuisine. In this article, you'll learn how to make this heartwarming dish step-by-step. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this soup is both comforting and flavorful.
Ingredients
To make Canh Vit, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 1 whole duck (about 4-5 lbs)
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 large onion, quartered
- 4-5 cloves garlic, smashed
- 2-3 tomatoes, cut into wedges
- 1 small bunch of fresh herbs (such as cilantro, mint, and green onions)
- 2-3 baby bok choy or other fresh greens
- 6-8 cups water
Instructions
1. Preparing the Duck
Start by cleaning the duck thoroughly. Remove any residual feathers and rinse it under cold water. Pat the duck dry with a paper towel. Season the duck by rubbing it inside and out with salt and black pepper. Let it sit for about 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
2. Cooking the Duck
In a large pot, combine the water, quartered onion, smashed garlic, and seasoned duck. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the duck is tender. Skim off any scum that rises to the surface to keep the broth clear.
3. Adding Vegetables
Once the duck is cooked, add the tomatoes to the pot. Let them simmer for an additional 10 minutes until they are soft and start breaking down into the broth. After that, add the baby bok choy or other fresh greens and continue to cook for another 5 minutes.
4. Seasoning the Soup
Check the seasoning of the broth. Add fish sauce to taste, adjusting according to your preference for saltiness. The fish sauce will enhance the umami flavor of the soup.
5. Finishing Touches
Once the soup is seasoned, carefully remove the duck from the pot. Let it cool for a few minutes before carving the meat from the bones. Return the shredded duck meat to the soup. For an additional herbal aroma, sprinkle in the fresh herbs just before serving.
6. Serving the Soup
Serve Canh Vit hot in bowls, ensuring each serving has plenty of broth, duck meat, and greens. Garnish with extra cilantro, mint, and sliced green onions if desired. This soup pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or can be enjoyed on its own as a hearty meal.
Tips for the Best Canh Vit
- For a richer broth, consider roasting the duck before simmering it.
- Use fresh ingredients to enhance the overall flavor of the soup.
- Experiment with different herbs according to your taste preferences.
Enjoy your homemade Canh Vit! This comforting Vietnamese duck soup is sure to become a family favorite, perfect for cold evenings or any special gathering.