How to Make Vietnamese Hot Soup with Seaweed and Tofu
Vietnamese hot soup, also known as "canh," is a comforting dish that beautifully blends flavors and textures. One popular variation features seaweed and tofu, making it both nutritious and delicious. This recipe is simple and perfect for a cozy dinner or an uplifting lunch. Here’s how to make Vietnamese hot soup with seaweed and tofu.
Ingredients
To prepare this delightful Vietnamese hot soup, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 block of firm tofu, diced
- 1 cup of seaweed (dried or fresh, such as wakame or kombu)
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of soy sauce (or tamari for a gluten-free option)
- 1 teaspoon of sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon of fish sauce (optional for added umami)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions for garnish
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
1. Prepare the Seaweed
If using dried seaweed, soak it in warm water for about 10-15 minutes until it expands and softens. Once ready, drain and chop into smaller pieces if necessary. If you’re using fresh seaweed, rinse it thoroughly and set it aside.
2. Sauté Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they are fragrant and translucent—approximately 3-5 minutes.
3. Add the Broth
Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and bring it to a gentle boil. This will allow the flavors from the garlic and onion to infuse into the broth.
4. Incorporate Tofu and Seaweed
Gently add the diced tofu and the prepped seaweed to the boiling broth. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook for 5-7 minutes. This allows the tofu to absorb the flavors while keeping its texture intact.
5. Season the Soup
Stir in the soy sauce and fish sauce, if using. Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper according to your preference. If you like a bit of heat, feel free to add some chili flakes or fresh chilies at this stage.
6. Serve the Soup
Once the soup is heated through, it’s ready to serve. Ladle the hot soup into bowls, garnishing with chopped green onions and fresh cilantro for an extra layer of flavor. Pair it with steamed rice or enjoy it on its own as a light meal.
Enjoy Your Vietnamese Hot Soup
This Vietnamese hot soup with seaweed and tofu is not only easy to make but also packed with health benefits. It’s a great option for vegetarians and can be customized with additional vegetables such as mushrooms, carrots, or leafy greens. Serve it warm and enjoy this nourishing bowl of goodness!
Whether it’s a chilly day or you just crave comfort food, this satisfying soup is sure to delight your palate. Dive into the rich flavors of Vietnam right from your kitchen!