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Vietnamese Fish Soup

Delicious Vietnamese Fish Soup: A Quick Comfort Meal

Experience the warm, comforting flavors of Vietnamese Fish Soup (Chao Ca) in a quick and customizable weeknight meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Vietnamese
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Soup Base
  • 1 lb mild fish (cod, tilapia, or barramundi)
  • 1 cup white rice or brown rice for nuttier flavor
  • 4 cups fish stock homemade preferred
  • 2 inches fresh ginger, finely chopped or minced garlic
  • 2 scallions, finely chopped or chives
For Garnishing
  • 1 bunch fresh herbs (cilantro or mint)
  • 1 lime, squeezed or lemon
For Flavor Enhancement
  • 2 tbsp fish sauce or soy sauce for vegetarian option

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Immersion Blender

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Vietnamese Fish Soup
  1. Finely chop ginger and scallions. Rinse white rice until water runs clear. Cut fish into bite-sized pieces and gather garnishes.
  2. Combine rinsed rice and fish stock in a large pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 30 minutes until rice is tender.
  3. Add fish and chopped ginger to the pot. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes until fish is opaque and flaky.
  4. For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup. Alternatively, leave it as is for a chunkier consistency.
  5. Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with scallions, fresh herbs, and lime juice. Optionally, add crispy shallots or chili oil.
  6. Taste and adjust the consistency of the soup by adding more fish stock or water if too thick.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 25gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 650mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 5mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Using the freshest fish and herbs will enhance the flavor of your soup significantly. Customize with additional chilies or coconut milk for an exciting twist.

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