How to Make Vietnamese Tofu Soup (Canh Dau Hu)
Vietnamese Tofu Soup, known as Canh Dau Hu, is a delicious and nutritious dish that can be enjoyed as a light meal or as part of a larger spread. This vegan-friendly soup combines soft tofu with vegetables in a flavorful broth, making it both comforting and satisfying. Follow this guide to create your own heartwarming bowl of Canh Dau Hu.
Ingredients
To prepare Vietnamese Tofu Soup, gather the following ingredients:
- 400g firm tofu, cubed
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 200g spinach or water spinach (rau muong)
- 1 medium tomato, cut into wedges
- 1 liter vegetable broth or water
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh coriander and sliced chili for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Follow these steps to make a flavorful Canh Dau Hu:
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by preparing your ingredients. Cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes, slice the onion, and mince the garlic. Wash the spinach and chop it into manageable pieces. Cut the tomato into wedges and set all ingredients aside.
Step 2: Heat the Broth
In a large pot, heat the vegetable broth or water over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic to the pot, allowing them to sauté until fragrant, around 2 minutes.
Step 3: Add Vegetables
Add the tomato wedges to the pot, cooking for another 3-4 minutes until they start to soften. This will add a rich flavor to your broth.
Step 4: Incorporate Tofu
Gently add the cubed tofu to the pot, ensuring not to break them. Sprinkle in the soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and black pepper. Simmer the mixture for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 5: Add Spinach
In the final minutes of cooking, add the spinach to the pot. Stir gently, allowing the spinach to wilt in the hot broth, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
Step 6: Serve Hot
Once all the ingredients are cooked and tender, remove the pot from heat. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot in bowls, garnished with fresh coriander and sliced chili if desired.
Tips for the Perfect Canh Dau Hu
- For a richer flavor, use homemade vegetable broth instead of store-bought.
- You can add other vegetables such as carrots or mushrooms to boost nutritional value.
- If you prefer a spicier soup, include slices of fresh chili or a splash of chili sauce.
Canh Dau Hu is not only an excellent source of plant-based protein but also a comforting choice for any meal. Enjoy this delightful Vietnamese tofu soup with family and friends, and experience the warm flavors of Vietnamese cuisine in your kitchen!