Dive into the vibrant flavors of Vietnam with this family recipe for Crispy Fish Cake Hot Pot (Lẩu Chả Cá). This comforting and flavorful hot pot is a beloved dish, perfect for a chilly evening or a special gathering. Imagine a bubbling pot filled with fragrant broth, tender fish cakes with a satisfyingly crispy exterior, and an array of fresh herbs and vegetables waiting to be dipped and enjoyed. The rich, savory broth is infused with the subtle sweetness of fish sauce and the aromatic depth of ginger and lemongrass, creating a harmonious blend that will tantalize your taste buds.
This recipe offers a delicious and authentic taste of Vietnamese cuisine, easily adaptable to your preferences and readily available ingredients. From preparing the flavorful fish cakes to assembling the vibrant hot pot, we'll guide you through each step with clear instructions and helpful tips. Ready to embark on a culinary journey to Vietnam? Let's begin with the step-by-step process.
Tools Needed
- pot
- stove
- bowl
- knife
- spoon
Ingredients
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Broth and Fish Cakes
- Blanch pork bones/spare ribs in salted water, then boil in hot water. Wash and set aside.
- Boil 3 liters of water in a pot. Add the prepared pork bones/ribs, onions, and white radish. Simmer on low heat to extract sweetness.
- Season fish cakes with fried garlic, fried onions, sugar, seasoning powder, cooking oil, fish sauce, pepper, and green onion root. Mix thoroughly and knead for 5-10 minutes until elastic and sticky.
- Wash and cut straw and Hoa mushrooms. Soak in salted water.
- Cut bitter melon into slices.
Step 2. Assemble and Simmer the Hot Pot
- Using a spoon dipped in oil, stuff fish cake mixture into mushrooms and chili peppers (remove seeds from chili). Decorate as desired.
- After 45 minutes of simmering the broth, add bitter melon and seasonings (seasoning powder, rock sugar, salt).
- Add straw mushrooms and simmer until flavors meld. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Step 3. Garnish and Serve
- Add green onions, chili peppers, fried garlic, and fried onions as garnish. Serve hot, dipping vegetables into the broth as desired.
Read more: Saigon's Famous Fish Hot Pot: A Step-by-Step Guide
Tips
- Using straw mushrooms enhances the sweetness of the hot pot.
- Stuffing fish cake into mushrooms and chili peppers prevents sticking and adds visual appeal.
- Adding a variety of vegetables adds sweetness to the hot pot.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 1200-1500
- Fat: 60-80g
- Carbs: 50-70g
- Protein: 70-90g
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen fish cakes instead of making them from scratch?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw them completely and gently pat them dry before adding them to the hot pot to ensure they crisp up nicely.
2. What kind of fish sauce should I use for the best flavor?
A high-quality, fish-forward fish sauce is recommended for the most authentic flavor. Look for one with a strong aroma and a salty-sweet taste.
This Crispy Fish Cake Hot Pot recipe is a delicious and rewarding culinary experience, showcasing the vibrant flavors of Vietnamese cuisine. From the crispy fish cakes to the aromatic broth, every element contributes to a truly satisfying meal. Enjoy sharing this comforting and flavorful hot pot with family and friends!