How to Make Vietnamese Steamed Fish Soup
Vietnamese steamed fish soup, known as “Canh Ca Kho,” is a flavorful and aromatic dish that highlights the delicate taste of fish combined with fresh herbs and spices. This light and healthy soup is perfect for any meal of the day. Here is how to make a delicious Vietnamese steamed fish soup at home.
Ingredients
To prepare Vietnamese steamed fish soup, you will need the following ingredients:
- 500 grams of fresh fish (tilapia or catfish works well)
- 1 liter of fish stock or water
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, sliced
- 1-2 fresh red chilies, sliced (optional)
- 1 tablespoon of fish sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh herbs (cilantro, green onions, and Thai basil)
- Lemon or lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Fish
Start by cleaning the fish thoroughly under running water. Remove any scales and guts if needed. Cut the fish into fillets or pieces, depending on your preference. Pat the fish dry with a paper towel and season with a little salt and pepper.
Step 2: Make the Broth
In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onion, minced garlic, sliced ginger, and chilies. Sauté until fragrant and the onions become translucent, approximately 3-5 minutes. Then pour in the fish stock or water, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil.
Step 3: Steam the Fish
Once the broth is boiling, gently place the seasoned fish pieces into the pot. Cover the pot with a lid and reduce the heat to a simmer. Let the fish steam in the broth for about 10-15 minutes or until cooked through and flaky.
Step 4: Season the Soup
After the fish is cooked, add a tablespoon of fish sauce to the broth, adjusting the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. You can also add more fresh herbs at this stage for additional flavor.
Step 5: Serve
Remove the pot from heat and ladle the fish soup into serving bowls. Garnish with chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, and a few leaves of Thai basil. Serve the Vietnamese steamed fish soup with lemon or lime wedges on the side for an extra zing!
Tips for Enjoying Your Dish
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or rice noodles. The fresh herbs not only enhance the flavor but also bring a refreshing component to the soup. Feel free to customize the soup by adding your favorite vegetables, such as mushrooms or bok choy, for a more robust meal.
Vietnamese steamed fish soup is not only easy to make, but it also embodies the essence of Vietnamese cuisine. With its light broth and fresh ingredients, it is a dish that you can enjoy any time. Savor a warm bowl of this soup and delight in the soothing flavors!