Vietnamese fish soup

Vietnamese Fish Soup

Do you dream of a soup that combines exotic and healthy flavors, is full of freshness, and reminds you of warm summer days? I invite you to discover the recipe for Vietnamese fish soup, a delicacy that will take you on a captivating culinary journey. This dish is not only tasty but also nutritious, thanks to its ingredients rich in vitamins and minerals.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

- 6 perch fish (approximately 10 cm each)
- 1/2 cup of mirabelle plums or physalis
- 2 teaspoons of dried lemongrass (ground or crushed)
- 6 green apricots
- zest from 1/2 lemon
- 250 g cherry tomatoes
- 1 bunch of green onions
- 1/2 stick of black cardamom
- 100 g Chinese noodles
- 1-2 chili peppers (depending on preference)
- 2 tablespoons of quality olive oil
- 2 star anise
- 1 bunch of fresh coriander or parsley
- salt and pepper, to taste
- approximately 2 liters of hot water

Recipe History

Vietnamese soup, known for its intense and fresh flavors, is a recipe that combines local ingredients with influences from different culinary cultures. Over time, this soup has evolved, integrating various vegetables and spices, transforming into the savory dish we know today. It is a symbol of hospitality, often served during celebrations in Vietnamese communities.

Step by Step

Step 1: Preparing the Fish

Start by trimming the fins of the fish with scissors. If you are using perch with tough scales, it is advisable to clean them well. The fish will then be washed under cold water. This step is essential to ensure a clean and tasty soup.

Step 2: Preparing the Vegetables

Wash the mirabelle plums and cut them in half. Peel the green apricots and cut them into pieces. The cherry tomatoes can be left whole or halved, depending on your preference. Slice the green onions into rounds, and finely chop the chili pepper, making sure to remove the seeds if you prefer a milder soup.

Step 3: Flavoring the Soup

In a large pot, add the olive oil and sauté the green onions along with the dried lemongrass and black cardamom for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Make sure not to let them burn.

Step 4: Adding Water

Add approximately 2 liters of hot water to the pot and bring to a boil. This is the base of your soup, and the hot water will help extract flavors from all the ingredients.

Step 5: Adding the Fish and Vegetables

When the water starts to boil, carefully add the fish, mirabelle plums, green apricots, and cherry tomatoes. Add salt and pepper to taste. Let the soup simmer for about 15-20 minutes until the fish is cooked and the vegetables are tender.

Step 6: Finalizing the Soup

In the last few minutes of cooking, add the Chinese noodles and chopped chili pepper. Let it boil for another 3-5 minutes. Turn off the heat and add the lemon zest and star anise for an extra flavor boost.

Step 7: Serving

Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh coriander or parsley, and, if desired, add a few slices of chili pepper for a colorful touch. This soup pairs perfectly with rice or a slice of fresh bread.

Useful Tips

1. Choosing the Fish: Perch is ideal, but you can experiment with other types of fish, such as salmon or sea bream. Ensure the fish is fresh for a delicious taste.
2. Seasonal Vegetables: Feel free to replace or add vegetables according to the season. Carrots or zucchini can add an interesting texture.
3. Adjusting Spiciness: If you're a fan of spices, you can add other types of peppers or even chili sauce.
4. Preserving Flavors: If you have leftover soup, you can keep it in the fridge for 2-3 days, and the flavors will become even more intense as it sits.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

A serving of Vietnamese fish soup contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the type of fish and the amount of oil used. This dish is rich in protein and vitamins, thanks to the fish and fresh vegetables. It also contains omega-3 fatty acids, essential for heart health.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen fish? Yes, you can use frozen fish, but make sure to thaw it completely before use to avoid a soup with an unpleasant texture.
2. What can I do with leftover soup? You can transform the leftover soup into fried rice or noodles, adding some fresh vegetables for a new dish.
3. How can I adapt the recipe for vegans? You can replace the fish with tofu or mushrooms, and instead of fish stock, you can use vegetable stock.

Vietnamese fish soup is more than just a simple soup; it is a culinary experience that combines flavors, colors, and aromas. I invite you to enjoy every step of its preparation and share the joy of this aromatic dish with loved ones. Enjoy your meal!