How to Make Vietnamese Vegan Soup
Vietnamese vegan soup, often known as "Canh Chua," is a delightful blend of flavors that encapsulates the essence of Vietnamese cuisine while being entirely plant-based. This comforting dish can be enjoyed year-round and is packed with nutritious ingredients. Here's a simple recipe to help you create your own delicious Vietnamese vegan soup at home.
Ingredients
To prepare Vietnamese vegan soup, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small piece of ginger, sliced
- 1 carrot, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (shiitake or button mushrooms work best)
- 1-2 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon sugar (coconut or regular)
- 1 cup bean sprouts
- 1 cup fresh coriander, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make your Vietnamese vegan soup:
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onion, garlic, and ginger, sautéing until fragrant and the onion becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 2: Add the Remaining Vegetables
Stir in the carrots, bell pepper, and mushrooms. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly.
Step 3: Create the Soup Base
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Add the soy sauce, lime juice, and sugar, mixing well to combine all ingredients. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes.
Step 4: Final Touches
Just before serving, stir in the bean sprouts and chopped coriander. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the soup to cook for another 2 minutes for the bean sprouts to soften slightly while maintaining their crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Vietnamese vegan soup hot, garnished with additional fresh coriander and lime wedges on the side. Pair it with steamed rice or rice noodles for a complete meal.
Health Benefits
This Vietnamese vegan soup is not only delicious but also nutritious. The variety of vegetables provides essential vitamins and minerals, while being low in calories. It's rich in antioxidants and is a perfect choice for anyone looking to maintain a healthy diet.
Enjoy this heartwarming and flavorful Vietnamese vegan soup on a chilly day or as a refreshing dish any time of the year. It’s a quick meal option that is bound to please everyone at the table, regardless of dietary preferences!