Dive into the comforting depths of Vietnamese cuisine with this incredibly flavorful Green Banana & Pork Bone Soup. This hearty and nourishing soup is surprisingly easy to make, offering a delightful balance of savory pork broth, subtly sweet green bananas, and aromatic herbs. Forget bland broths; this recipe delivers a rich and complex flavor profile that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you feeling wonderfully satisfied. The unique combination of ingredients creates a surprisingly unique texture and depth of flavour you won't find anywhere else.
This recipe is perfect for a chilly evening or a weekend treat, offering a healthy and delicious alternative to your usual soup routine. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, you'll find this recipe straightforward and achievable. Ready to experience the magic? Let's get started with the step-by-step instructions below.
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Basin
Ingredients
- Green bananas: 5 small
- Pork bones: 3 ounces
- Garlic: 1 clove, crushed
- Salt
- Lemon or vinegar
- Cooking oil
- Perilla leaves or water spinach
- Fish sauce
- Sugar
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients
- Remove the green skin from the bananas and soak them in diluted salt water with a little lemon or vinegar for 15-20 minutes to prevent them from turning black and remove resin.
- Cut the bananas into bite-sized pieces.
- Wash the pork bones thoroughly with salt water and vinegar.
Step 2. Sauté and Simmer
- Heat cooking oil in a pot, add crushed garlic and stir-fry until fragrant.
- Add the pork bones to the pot and stir-fry, seasoning to taste.
- Add the prepared bananas to the pot.
- Add enough water to cover the ingredients and bring to a boil. Skim off any foam.
- Season the soup to taste. Simmer until the bananas are soft and the bones are tender, about half an hour.
Step 3. Season and Finish
- Add perilla leaves or water spinach just before turning off the heat.
- Before turning off the heat, add a little fish sauce and sugar to enhance the flavor.
Read more: Vietnamese Sweet & Sour Fish Soup: A Delicious Comfort Food Recipe
Tips
- If you prefer a thicker soup, mash some of the bananas.
- Don't add fish sauce too early, as it might lose its aroma. Add it at the end.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 250-300
- Fat: 5-10g
- Carbs: 40-50g
- Protein: 10-15g
FAQs
1. Can I use ripe bananas instead of green bananas?
No, ripe bananas will make the soup too sweet and mushy. Green bananas are crucial for their unique texture and subtle sweetness.
2. What can I substitute for pork bones?
Chicken bones or beef bones can be used, but the flavor will be different. Pork bones provide the richest broth for this specific recipe.
3. How long can I store leftover soup?
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It's even tastier the next day!
This easy Vietnamese Green Banana & Pork Bone Soup is a testament to the magic of simple ingredients creating an extraordinary dish. Enjoy the warmth and comforting flavors of this unique and satisfying soup, perfect for any occasion. We hope you'll add this delicious recipe to your regular cooking repertoire!