How to Make Vietnamese Shrimp Soup with Tamarind
Vietnamese shrimp soup, known as "Canh Tom," is a delightful dish that balances the flavors of fresh shrimp with the tangy essence of tamarind. This nourishing soup is not only easy to make but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect meal at any time of the year. Follow this recipe to create a delicious Vietnamese shrimp soup with tamarind in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
- 300g raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon tamarind paste
- 4 cups fish stock or water
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 tomatoes, diced
- 100g fresh spinach or water spinach
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-2 green chilies, sliced (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh herbs (cilantro or green onions) for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Fish Stock
If you're using fish stock, heat it in a large pot over medium heat. If using water, consider adding a few fish bones or a piece of dried fish to enhance the flavor.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In a separate pan, heat a little oil and sauté the minced garlic and sliced onion until fragrant and translucent. This will deepen the flavor of your soup significantly.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Shrimp
Add the diced tomatoes to the sautéed onions and garlic, and cook until they start to break down. Then, stir in the raw shrimp and cook until they turn pink and opaque.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Pour the sautéed mixture into the pot of fish stock. Stir in the tamarind paste and fish sauce, adjusting the amount based on your taste preference. Allow the soup to simmer for about 5-10 minutes, letting all the flavors meld together.
Step 5: Incorporate Spinach
Add the fresh spinach or water spinach to the pot and continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until the greens are wilted and tender.
Step 6: Season and Serve
Taste the broth and season with salt and pepper as desired. If you enjoy a bit of heat, you can add sliced green chilies at this stage. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs such as cilantro or green onions.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the shrimp soup hot with a side of steamed rice or noodles, allowing you to soak up the flavorful broth. This versatile dish can be enjoyed as a light meal or as part of a larger Vietnamese feast.
Whether you're a fan of Vietnamese cuisine or trying your hand at Asian dishes for the first time, this Vietnamese shrimp soup with tamarind is sure to impress with its vibrant flavors and satisfying texture. Enjoy your culinary adventure!