Canh Bí Đao Sườn Nón, or Vietnamese Winter Melon Soup with Pork Spareribs, is a comforting and flavorful soup perfect for cooler evenings. This light yet satisfying dish features tender pork spareribs simmered in a delicate broth with sweet winter melon, creating a harmonious balance of savory and subtly sweet flavors. The subtle sweetness of the winter melon complements the richness of the pork, resulting in a surprisingly refreshing soup despite its hearty ingredients. It's a dish that embodies the essence of Vietnamese cuisine – simple yet sophisticated, using fresh, high-quality ingredients to create a truly memorable taste.
This simple yet elegant soup is surprisingly easy to make, even for novice cooks. The subtle nuances of flavor develop beautifully with a gentle simmer, transforming readily available ingredients into a culinary masterpiece. Ready to discover the secrets behind this delicious Vietnamese soup? Let's dive into the step-by-step recipe and create a bowl of warming Canh Bí Đao Sườn Nón together.
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Knife
- Vegetable peeler
- Bowl
Ingredients
- Pork spareribs: 1/2 slab (approx. 4.42 USD)
- Winter melon: 1/2 of a large melon (approx. 0.51 USD)
- Chopped cilantro
- Chopped green onions
- Pork seasoning: 1 spoon
- Garlic
- Salt
- Water
- Black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients & Blanch Pork
- Wash and cut the pork spareribs into small pieces, cutting between the bones.
- Wash and peel the winter melon, remove seeds and inner part.
- Bring a pot of water to a boil, add salt.
- Add the pork spareribs to the boiling water.
- Cook for about 20 minutes, then lower the heat and simmer.
- Remove scum from the surface of the soup throughout the cooking process.
Step 2. Simmer with Seasoning
- Add 1 spoon of pork seasoning, garlic salt, and mix.
- After about 35 minutes of simmering, add the sliced winter melon.
Step 3. Finish & Serve
- Bring back to a boil, then turn off the heat.
- Let it sit for another 2-3 minutes.
- Ladle the soup into a bowl, garnish with green onions, cilantro, and black pepper.
Read more: Vietnamese Sweet & Sour Fish Soup: A Delicious Comfort Food Recipe
Tips
- You can use ground pork or shrimp instead of spareribs.
- Slice the winter melon into any shape or size you prefer.
- Be sure to turn the heat up after adding the winter melon and wait for it to boil again before turning off the heat.
Nutrition
- Calories: 250-350
- Fat: 15-25gg
- Carbs: 10-15gg
- Protein: 20-25gg
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of meat besides pork spareribs?
Yes! Chicken or beef can be substituted, but adjust cooking time accordingly. Chicken will cook faster, while beef may require longer simmering.
2. What if I don't have fresh winter melon? Can I use canned?
Canned winter melon works in a pinch, but the texture might be slightly different. You may need to adjust the cooking time as canned melon is already cooked.
3. How can I make the soup richer in flavor?
Add a tablespoon of fish sauce or a few dried shiitake mushrooms for a deeper, umami flavor. You can also sauté the pork spareribs before adding them to the broth to enhance their flavor.
This Vietnamese Winter Melon Soup with Pork Spareribs is a delicious and healthy addition to your repertoire, perfect for a light yet satisfying meal. Its simple preparation belies its complex and nuanced flavors, making it an ideal dish for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Enjoy the comforting warmth and delightful taste of this classic Vietnamese soup!