Escape the ordinary and embark on a culinary adventure with Nha Grapefruit Sweet Soup, a vibrant and refreshing dessert that tantalizes the taste buds. This unique Vietnamese treat expertly balances the tartness of ruby-red grapefruit with the sweetness of a subtly spiced syrup, creating a harmonious flavor profile that's both unexpected and utterly delightful. Imagine the explosion of juicy grapefruit segments in your mouth, contrasted by the gentle warmth of the aromatic broth. It's a simple yet elegant dessert, perfect for a hot day or a special occasion. The beautiful, jewel-toned color alone makes it a feast for the eyes.
This recipe will guide you through each step, from selecting the perfect grapefruit to achieving the ideal balance of sweetness and spice. Prepare to be amazed by how easily you can create this sophisticated dessert at home. Ready to transform your kitchen into a haven of sweet, citrusy goodness? Let's dive into the detailed, step-by-step instructions!
Tools Needed
- Steamer
- Pot
- Colander
- Bowl
- Cloth
Ingredients
- Grapefruit (Na ri or green-skinned): 1 large
- Green beans: 200g
- Sugar: 200g
- Salt: 2 tbsp
- Tapioca starch: 300g
- Pandan essence: 1 tsp
- Purple food coloring: 50ml of purple water
- Water: approx 2 liters
- Coconut milk: 500ml
- Rock sugar (or granulated sugar): 500g
- Grapefruit flower scent (optional): a little
- Cornstarch: 1 tsp
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Grapefruit
- Peel the grapefruit, removing all the green layer and leaving only the white layer.
- Separate the white layer, removing the tough fibers. Use only the middle layer of pulp for a crispy texture.
- Cut the grapefruit pulp into small cubes.
- Mix the grapefruit pulp with 2 tbsp salt and mix well.
- Blanch the grapefruit pulp in 2 liters of boiling water for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally. Press down to ensure pulp is submerged.
- After blanching, rinse the grapefruit pulp thoroughly with water 2-3 times until no longer bitter. Squeeze out excess water using a cloth.
Step 2. Marinate and Cook the Grapefruit
- Divide the grapefruit pulp in half. Marinate one half with 100g sugar, 50ml water, and 1 tsp pandan essence. Marinate the other half with 100g sugar and 50ml purple water. Mix thoroughly to distribute color evenly.
- Coat the marinated grapefruit pulp with 300g tapioca starch until the pieces separate.
- Boil the pandan green grapefruit pulp in water for 3-4 minutes until it floats. Immediately transfer to an ice water bath to maintain crispness.
- Repeat step 10 with the purple grapefruit pulp.
Step 3. Make the Sugar Syrup and Combine Ingredients
- Combine 1.5 liters of water, 500g rock sugar, and 1 tbsp salt. Cook until sugar dissolves.
- Add the cooked grapefruit pulp to the sugar syrup. Mix well.
- Mix 70g tapioca starch with 100ml water. Add to the syrup and stir well until clear.
- Add the steamed green beans. Reduce heat and stir until evenly mixed.
- Add grapefruit flower scent (or vanilla) at the end of cooking. Turn off heat once thickened.
Step 4. Prepare and Add Coconut Milk
- Steam the green beans for 20 minutes until soft.
- Combine 500ml coconut milk, 50g sugar, 1 tbsp salt, and 1 tsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp water. Cook over low heat until thickened.
Read more: Vietnamese Sweet & Sour Fish Soup: A Delicious Comfort Food Recipe
Tips
- Choose a large grapefruit with thick skin for best results.
- Soak green beans for 3-4 hours before steaming.
- Stir the tapioca starch mixture into one direction to prevent clumping.
- Serve the dessert cold for best flavor.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of citrus fruit instead of grapefruit?
While grapefruit provides the signature tartness, you can experiment! Try oranges or pomelos for a sweeter variation, but adjust the sugar accordingly.
2. How can I make the grapefruit segments extra crispy?
Gently pat the grapefruit segments dry after segmenting and let them air dry for a bit before adding them to the warm soup. This helps achieve a crispier texture.
This refreshing and vibrant Crispy Grapefruit Sweet Soup is the perfect ending to any meal, offering a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. Its simple preparation belies the sophisticated taste, making it a recipe you'll want to revisit again and again. Enjoy the sweet, tangy delight!