Kim Ngoc Man Duong, or Pearl Soup, is a beloved vegetarian Vietnamese dish known for its delicate broth and chewy, tapioca-pearl dumplings. This comforting soup boasts a subtle sweetness balanced by savory notes, making it a perfect light meal or a warming starter. The unique texture of the tapioca pearls, coupled with the fragrant herbs and vegetables, creates a truly delightful culinary experience. It’s a surprisingly simple dish to make, showcasing the beauty of fresh ingredients and a few simple techniques.
This recipe offers a delicious and authentic version of Kim Ngoc Man Duong, perfect for both experienced cooks and enthusiastic beginners. Ready to create this flavorful and visually appealing soup yourself? Let's dive into the detailed, step-by-step instructions to guide you through the process of making your own perfect bowl of Pearl Soup.
Tools Needed
- grater
- pot
- steamer
Ingredients
- Cassava
- Red Apple
- Dried Shiitake Mushrooms
- Dried Wood Ear Mushrooms
- Baby Corn
- Carrots
- Straw Mushrooms
- Green Onions
- Sugar
- Vegetarian Seasoning Powder
- Salt
- Vegetarian Fish Sauce
- Fresh Coconut Water: 1.5 liters
- Cornstarch or Tapioca Starch
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients
- wash, clean, and cut them into bite-sized pieces.
- Soak dried shiitake and wood ear mushrooms in water until softened, then wash and cut them.
Step 2. Cook the Soup Base
- Heat coconut water in a pot, add salt, green onions, red apple, carrots, and baby corn. Simmer over low heat for 15 minutes.
- After 15 minutes, add straw mushrooms, sugar, and vegetarian seasoning to the soup. Add more water if needed and cook for another 10 minutes.
Step 3. Prepare and Cook Tapioca Pearls
- Knead grated cassava until soft, roll into small balls. Steam the tapioca pearls until cooked.
- Steam the tapioca pearls for about 5 minutes until they are clear and white.
- Add the cooked tapioca pearls to the soup and cook for another 5 minutes.
Step 4. Finish and Serve
- Season to taste. If desired, thicken the soup with cornstarch or tapioca starch mixed with water.
- Garnish with green onions and cilantro (optional). Serve hot.
Read more: Vietnamese Sweet & Sour Fish Soup: A Delicious Comfort Food Recipe
Tips
- Choose cassava that is medium-sized and free of fibers for smoother tapioca pearls.
- For colorful tapioca pearls, add pandan leaves, purple leaves, butterfly pea flowers, or kumquats to the cassava.
- Don't add tapioca pearls directly to the boiling soup; steam them separately first to prevent them from dissolving.
- Adjust the amount of sugar and seasoning to your preference.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 400-500
- Fat: 5-10g
- Carbs: 90-110g
- Protein: 5-8g
FAQs
1. Can I substitute the tapioca pearls?
While tapioca pearls give the soup its signature texture, you can experiment with other small, chewy starches like mung bean starch balls or even small pieces of cooked sweet potato for a different, still delicious experience.
2. How can I make the broth richer?
Adding a vegetable broth base instead of just water will enhance the flavor. You can also simmer the broth longer, or add a touch of mushroom seasoning or soy sauce for extra depth.
3. What if I don't have all the herbs listed?
Don't worry! Kim Ngoc Man Duong is adaptable. Feel free to use what herbs you have available. Fresh cilantro and mint are the most important for freshness, but the others are additions to enhance the overall flavor profile.
Enjoy your homemade bowl of Kim Ngoc Man Duong – a testament to the simple elegance of Vietnamese cuisine. This recipe offers a comforting and flavorful experience, perfect for any occasion. We hope you’ll share this delicious and easy-to-make soup with your friends and family!