Dive into the vibrant flavors of Vietnam with this authentic Carp Sour Soup (Canh Cá Chua) recipe, a culinary masterpiece that perfectly balances tangy, savory, and subtly sweet notes. This refreshing soup, brimming with succulent carp, fragrant herbs, and a delightful sourness derived from tamarind or other souring agents, is a true testament to Vietnamese culinary artistry. The rich broth, infused with the essence of lemongrass, galangal, and chilies, provides a comforting warmth that's perfect for any occasion. Served alongside a crisp and juicy Tomato Salad, this dish offers a delightful contrast of textures and tastes.
The combination of the hearty soup and the refreshing salad creates a balanced and unforgettable dining experience. To embark on this culinary adventure and create your own bowl of this flavorful Vietnamese delight, simply follow the easy-to-follow step-by-step instructions provided in this recipe.
Tools Needed
- Pan
- Bowl
- Knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- Carp
- Shallots
- Oil
- Fish sauce
- MSG
- Seasoning powder
- Sugar
- Coriander
- Green onions
- Tomatoes
- Salad leaves
- Eggplant
- Bone broth
- Tamarind juice
- Dill
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Fish and Marinate
- Buy carp, wash, and cut into pieces. Marinate the fish with finely chopped shallots, oil, fish sauce, MSG, seasoning powder, and sugar. Let it marinate for about 30 minutes.
Step 2. Prepare the Vegetables and Sauce
- Slice coriander and green onions.
- Prepare tomato sauce (thickness depends on preference). Chop tomatoes and salad leaves.
- Add a little oil to the pan, add onions, then eggplant. Stir-fry until eggplant is soft. Season with salt and seasoning powder.
- Add bone broth, eggplant water, green onions and cilantro to the tomato sauce. Add tamarind juice and season to taste.
Step 3. Cook the Fish
- Heat oil, add onions for flavor, then add the fish and pan-fry for about 1 minute per side.
- Boil water, add fish, and cook for about 5 minutes. Season with sugar, MSG, seasoning powder, and fish sauce.
- Once the fish is cooked, add dill and green onions to the soup.
Step 4. Combine and Serve
Read more: Vietnamese Sweet & Sour Fish Soup: A Delicious Comfort Food Recipe
Tips
- Marinating the fish helps remove the fishy smell.
- Bone broth enhances the flavor of the sauce and soup.
Nutrition
- Calories: Approximately 400-500
- Fat: 15-25g
- Carbs: 20-30g
- Protein: 30-40g
FAQs
1. Can I substitute the carp with another type of fish?
Yes! Other firm, white-fleshed fish like catfish or basa work well. The cooking time might need slight adjustment depending on the fish's thickness.
2. What if I don't have tamarind paste? What can I use instead?
You can use lime juice or rice vinegar to achieve a similar sourness. Start with a smaller amount and adjust to your taste preference.
Enjoy your delicious and authentic Vietnamese Carp Sour Soup with its refreshing tomato salad companion. This recipe, once mastered, will become a staple in your kitchen, impressing family and friends alike. Savor the vibrant flavors and the satisfying warmth of this truly special dish.