Vietnamese beet soup

Canh Củ Dền, a vibrant Vietnamese beet soup, is a delightful dish that embodies the essence of Vietnamese cuisine with its balanced flavors and fresh ingredients. This soup, known for its striking crimson color, is not just a feast for the eyes but also for the palate.

Beets, the star ingredient, are a common root vegetable in Vietnam, appreciated for their sweet, earthy flavor. Canh Củ Dền is typically enjoyed as a light meal or a starter and is particularly favored during the cooler months.

The soup’s simplicity highlights the Vietnamese cooking philosophy of using minimal ingredients to create profound flavors.

The preparation of Canh Củ Dền is straightforward, involving fresh beets, tender pork ribs, and aromatic herbs. The beets impart a natural sweetness and a beautiful ruby hue to the broth, while the pork ribs provide a rich depth of flavor.

Aromatic herbs like cilantro or dill are often added towards the end of cooking, enhancing the soup with their fresh, green notes.

This soup is a perfect example of how Vietnamese cuisine often achieves a harmonious balance between different flavors and textures, creating dishes that are both wholesome and delicious.

INGREDIENTS

• 1 lb pork spare ribs, cut into 2-inch pieces
• 2 medium-sized beets, peeled and cut into wedges
• 1 large onion, quartered
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 6 cups of water
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro or dill for garnish

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Begin by blanching the pork ribs. Bring a pot of water to a boil, add the ribs, and let them boil for 2-3 minutes.
2. Drain and rinse the ribs to remove any impurities. This step ensures a clear broth.
3. In a clean pot, combine the blanched ribs, beets, onion, garlic, and 6 cups of water. Bring to a boil over high heat.
4. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer the soup for about 1 hour, or until the pork is tender and the beets are cooked through.
5. Stir in the fish sauce and sugar. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes, then turn off the heat.
7. Let the soup rest for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
8. Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped cilantro or dill.

NOTES

• Choose ribs with a bit of fat for a richer broth. The fat adds flavor and creates a more satisfying soup.
• Wear gloves while handling beets to avoid staining your hands. Their vibrant color can be hard to wash off.
• Simmer the soup gently. Vigorous boiling can break up the ribs and cloud the broth, affecting the soup’s appearance and texture.
• Cilantro offers a classic Vietnamese flavor, while dill provides a unique twist. Experiment with either to suit your taste preference.
• For a complete meal, serve Canh Củ Dền with a side of steamed white rice or crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.