Lẩu Mắm Kho, or Western-style braised fish sauce hot pot, is a vibrant and flavorful culinary experience hailing from the Mekong Delta region of Vietnam. This intensely aromatic and savory hot pot transcends the typical notion of a simple fish sauce broth, boasting a rich depth achieved through a meticulous braising process that unlocks the umami potential of fermented fish sauce. The resulting broth is a complex tapestry of sweet, salty, sour, and umami notes, perfectly complemented by an array of fresh herbs and vegetables. Forget bland broths; this is a culinary adventure for your taste buds.
The key to Lẩu Mắm Kho lies in the careful preparation of the fish sauce base, a process that infuses the broth with its characteristic intensity. This isn't your everyday hot pot; it's a testament to the ingenuity of Vietnamese cuisine, showcasing the transformative power of fermented fish sauce. To learn how to craft this remarkable dish, step-by-step, follow the detailed recipe below.
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Knife
- Chopsticks
- Plate
- Plastic wrap
- Tray
Ingredients
- Linh fish sauce: 300g
- Clean fish sauce (or chot fish sauce): 100g
- Tilapia (or other fish): 500g
- Shrimp
- Squid
- Banana tree (banana heart)
- Water mimosa
- Eggplant
- Okra
- Winged beans
- Water lily
- Water chives
- Garlic
- Non-spicy chili pepper
- Lemongrass
- Seasoning powder: 1/3 tablespoon
- Pepper: a little
- Fried onions
- Cooking oil: 2 tablespoons
- Rock sugar: 1 tablespoon
- Coconut water
- Filtered water
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Broth and Marinate Ingredients
- Put a pot of water on the stove. Add a crushed lemongrass stalk. Add all the prepared fish sauce (400g total). Let the fish sauce dissolve.
- Wash the meat several times with water and cut it into bite-sized pieces.
- Wash the fish with salt and vinegar, then fillet it, removing the bones.
- Cut the meat into bite-sized pieces, not too thin or too thick.
- Marinate the meat, shrimp, and squid with seasoning powder, pepper, and fried onions. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate.
- Heat cooking oil in a pot, add chopped garlic and chili peppers. Stir-fry until fragrant and golden brown.
- Add pork belly and stir-fry until browned. The spices will infuse the meat.
- Boil the fish sauce mixture, then simmer over low heat until the bones and fish meat melt. Remove all bones.
- Add the fish sauce broth to the pot, then add coconut water and/or filtered water (about 4 liters total). Add fish bones.
- Bring to a boil, then skim off the foam.
- Season with rock sugar (adjust according to fish sauce saltiness).
Step 2. Prepare the Vegetables
- cut eggplant into pieces and soak in diluted salt water to prevent browning. Wash and drain other vegetables.
Step 3. Assemble and Cook the Hot Pot
- Add eggplant to the hot pot broth.
- Add bitter gourd flower before serving; add okra just before eating.
Step 4. Serve and Enjoy
- Serve hot. Dip vegetables and meat into the broth and enjoy.
Read more: Saigon's Famous Fish Hot Pot: A Step-by-Step Guide
Tips
- Use a sharp knife when filleting fish to make it easier.
- Fried onions help reduce the fishy smell of fish and shrimp.
- Adjust seasoning to your family's taste depending on the type of fish sauce used.
- Don't add too much okra, as it can affect the taste.
- Wild bitter gourd flower adds a better taste
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Is fish sauce really that strong in this hot pot?
While the base uses fish sauce, the braising process mellows its intensity, creating a complex, savory depth rather than an overpowering fishiness. Other ingredients balance the flavor beautifully.
2. What kind of fish sauce should I use?
Use a high-quality, fermented fish sauce, preferably one with a strong aroma and rich flavor. Look for brands known for their quality; the better the fish sauce, the better the hot pot.
3. Can I adjust the spiciness?
Absolutely! The recipe provides a guideline, but you can adjust the amount of chili to your preference. Start with less and add more to taste.
This Western-style braised fish sauce hot pot is a testament to the versatility and depth of Vietnamese cuisine. With its rich, complex flavors and satisfying warmth, it’s a perfect centerpiece for a memorable meal. Enjoy the rewarding experience of crafting this unique and delicious hot pot!