Are you looking for a unique and flavorful soup recipe that's both healthy and surprisingly delicious? Look no further than this Bitter Melon & Catfish Ball Soup! This vibrant dish combines the slightly bitter bite of bitter melon with the rich, flaky texture of catfish balls, creating a delightful contrast of flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds. It's a perfect meal for a hot day, offering a refreshing and light yet satisfying experience for the whole family. The subtle sweetness of the broth balances the bitterness of the melon perfectly.
This recipe is surprisingly easy to follow, even for beginner cooks. We'll guide you through each step, from preparing the bitter melon and catfish balls to simmering the flavorful broth. Ready to embark on a culinary adventure and create a truly unforgettable soup? Let's dive into the detailed, step-by-step instructions below!
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Bowl
- Knife
- Spoon
Ingredients
- Wild bitter melon: 500g
- Sliced catfish: 200g
- Snow white mushrooms: 50g
- Carrots: 150g
- Onion
- Coriander
- Sugar: 2 teaspoons
- Pepper: a little
- MSG: 1/2 teaspoon
- Bone broth: 1 teaspoon
- Salt: 2 teaspoons
- Seasoning powder: 1 tablespoon + 1/2 teaspoon
- Green onion root
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Ingredients and Catfish
- 500g wild bitter melon (or regular), 200g sliced catfish, 50g snow white mushrooms, 150g carrots, onion, and coriander.
- Mix sliced catfish with chopped green onion root, 1 tablespoon + 1/2 teaspoon seasoning powder, 1/2 teaspoon sugar, 1/3 teaspoon salt, and a little pepper. Mix well and refrigerate.
- Cut off the ends, slice in half lengthwise, and then cut into small pieces. Remove seeds if desired.
- Cut into small, flower-shaped pieces.
Step 2. Cook the Soup
- Boil 1 liter of water in a pot. Add the seasoned catfish balls (rolled or spooned in).
- Add carrots to the boiling water and cook until slightly softened.
- Add mushrooms and bitter melon.
- Add the remaining seasonings (sugar, pepper, MSG, bone broth, salt) to taste.
- Continue cooking until the bitter melon is tender. Adjust cooking time based on your preference for crispy or soft bitter melon.
Step 3. Finishing Touches
- Add onion and coriander for extra fragrance just before serving.
Step 4. Serve and Enjoy
- Serve hot and enjoy with fish sauce and chili, if desired.
Read more: Vietnamese Sweet & Sour Fish Soup: A Delicious Comfort Food Recipe
Tips
- Adjust the seasoning to your family's taste.
- Seasoning powder from marrow bone enhances the flavor.
- Raw bitter melon is crunchy and delicious; you can eat it with shredded pork.
- Creating a beautiful presentation makes the dish more appealing.
- Use low heat towards the end to avoid losing the broth.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I substitute the catfish?
Yes! Tilapia, cod, or even shrimp would work well as substitutes for the catfish balls. Just ensure they are cooked through before adding them to the soup.
2. How can I reduce the bitterness of the bitter melon?
Soak the sliced bitter melon in salted water for about 15-20 minutes before cooking. This helps draw out some of the bitterness.
3. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup tastes even better the next day! Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
This Bitter Melon & Catfish Ball Soup is a delicious and healthy meal perfect for any occasion. Its unique blend of flavors and textures makes it a surefire crowd-pleaser, guaranteed to leave everyone wanting more. So gather your ingredients and get cooking – enjoy this refreshing and satisfying family meal!