Canh Chua Ca: Vietnamese Sweet and Sour Fish Soup

Introduction

Canh Chua Ca, a traditional Vietnamese dish, is a delightful and harmonious blend of sweet and sour flavors that tantalize the taste buds. This aromatic soup is a popular choice in Vietnamese households, especially during hot summer days due to its refreshing and light qualities. Canh Chua Ca boasts a flavorful broth infused with fish, tropical fruits, and a mix of fresh herbs that give it a unique and comforting appeal.

Ingredients

– 500g white fish fillets, such as catfish or tilapia, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 4 cups of water
– 1 cup of fresh pineapple chunks
– 1 medium tomato, sliced
– 1/2 cup of tamarind paste
– 3 tablespoons of fish sauce
– 2 tablespoons of sugar
– 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
– 1 red chili, sliced (adjust according to spice preference)
– 1 medium onion, sliced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– Handful of okra, trimmed and halved
– Handful of Vietnamese coriander (rau ram) or cilantro, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. In a pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and onion, sauté until fragrant.

2. Pour water into the pot and bring it to a gentle boil. Add the tamarind paste, fish sauce, and sugar. Stir well to combine, allowing the flavors to meld for a few minutes.

3. Add the fish pieces to the broth and let it simmer until the fish is cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

4. Toss in the pineapple chunks, tomato slices, okra, and red chili. Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes.

5. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the sweetness and sourness by adding more sugar or tamarind paste if needed.

6. Turn off the heat and sprinkle Vietnamese coriander or cilantro over the soup before serving.

This vibrant Canh Chua Ca is best enjoyed with a side of steamed rice, allowing you to savor the complex flavors and textures of this Vietnamese delicacy. Dive into a bowl of this comforting soup and experience the perfect balance of sweet, sour, and savory notes that make it a beloved dish in Vietnamese cuisine.

FAQ

What is Canh Chua Ca?

Canh Chua Ca is a traditional Vietnamese dish, known as Sweet and Sour Fish Soup. It is a delightful combination of sweet, sour, and savory flavors, typically made with fish, tomatoes, pineapple, and a variety of herbs and vegetables.

What are the key ingredients in Canh Chua Ca?

The main ingredients in Canh Chua Ca include fish, tamarind paste for the sour flavor, sugar for sweetness, tomatoes, pineapple, okra, and various herbs like Vietnamese coriander and dill. It is commonly served with rice on the side.

How is Canh Chua Ca prepared?

To prepare Canh Chua Ca, the fish is first lightly marinated and then cooked with tamarind broth, tomatoes, and pineapples. Vegetables like okra and bean sprouts are added towards the end of cooking. The dish is finished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs before serving.