How to Make Vietnamese Soup with Pork and Green Beans
Vietnamese soup, known as "Canh," is a delightful and healthy dish that can be made in numerous variations. One popular version features pork and green beans, offering a delicious combination of flavors and textures. This recipe is simple and easy to follow, perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.
Ingredients
To create this flavorful Vietnamese soup, gather the following ingredients:
- 500g pork (shoulder or belly, thinly sliced)
- 200g green beans (trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces)
- 1 medium onion (sliced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 4 cups chicken or pork broth
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (such as cilantro or green onions)
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make your Vietnamese pork and green bean soup:
Step 1: Prepare the Pork
In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the sliced pork and sauté until it begins to brown, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Step 2: Add Aromatics
Once the pork is browned, add the sliced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for another 2-3 minutes until the onion is softened and fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Broth
Pour in the chicken or pork broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil. Bring it to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 4: Incorporate Green Beans
Add the green beans to the pot. Stir in the fish sauce, sugar, salt, and pepper. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the green beans are tender yet still crisp.
Step 5: Final Touches
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you like it saltier, add more fish sauce. For additional depth, you can also mix in a dash of black pepper.
Step 6: Serve
Remove the pot from heat. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs such as cilantro or chopped green onions. This soup pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or crusty bread.
Tips for the Perfect Soup
- For a richer flavor, consider using bone-in pork pieces for your broth.
- If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can blend a portion of the soup and mix it back in.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or mushrooms for additional nutrients.
- Make sure not to overcook the green beans; they should be bright green and tender but still have a slight crunch.
This Vietnamese soup with pork and green beans is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect dish for any season. Enjoy the comforting flavors and the aroma that will surely fill your kitchen!