How to Make Vietnamese Hot Pot Soup with Fish
Vietnamese hot pot soup, or "lẩu," is a popular dish that offers a unique combination of flavors, textures, and the joy of communal eating. Fish hot pot is particularly loved for its light yet rich broth and fresh ingredients. Follow this simple guide to create your very own Vietnamese fish hot pot soup at home.
Ingredients
To prepare a delicious Vietnamese hot pot soup with fish, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) of fresh white fish (such as snapper or tilapia), cut into slices
- 8 cups of fish stock or vegetable broth
- 2 stalks of lemongrass, chopped
- 3-4 kaffir lime leaves
- 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2-3 Thai bird's eye chilies (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup of mushrooms (shiitake or enoki work well)
- 1 cup of tofu, cut into cubes
- An assortment of fresh vegetables (such as bok choy, water spinach, and bean sprouts)
- Rice noodles (bánh phở) or other noodles of your choice
- Fresh herbs (such as cilantro and mint) for garnish
- Lime wedges for serving
- Fish sauce and chili sauce for flavoring
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Broth
In a large pot, bring the fish stock or vegetable broth to a gentle boil. Add the chopped lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, sliced ginger, and onions to infuse the broth with aromatic flavors. Let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes.
Step 2: Add the Fish and Tofu
Carefully add the fish slices and tofu cubes into the simmering broth. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes, until the fish is fully cooked and flakes easily. Be careful not to overcook the fish to keep it tender.
Step 3: Incorporate Vegetables and Noodles
Next, add the mushrooms and fresh vegetables to the pot. Let them soften in the hot broth for a few minutes. Meanwhile, prepare the rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Step 4: Assemble the Hot Pot
To serve, place the cooked noodles in individual bowls. Ladle the hot fish broth, along with fish, tofu, and vegetables, over the noodles. Garnish with fresh herbs such as cilantro and mint.
Step 5: Serve with Condiments
Serve your Vietnamese hot pot soup with lime wedges, fish sauce, and chili sauce on the side. Guests can customize their bowls according to their preference, adding more sauce or spice as desired.
Tips for the Perfect Hot Pot
- For added depth of flavor, you can season the broth with a splash of soy sauce or oyster sauce.
- Feel free to mix in other seafood, like shrimp or squid, for a more varied hot pot.
- Consider providing a variety of dipping sauces, such as peanut sauce or Hoisin sauce, for additional layers of flavor.
Enjoy your homemade Vietnamese hot pot soup with fish, a dish that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. With its vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients, it’s sure to be a hit among family and friends!