Easy Broccoli Greens Vietnamese Soup Recipe | Fresh & Tasty

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Vietnamese cuisine is celebrated for its fresh ingredients, vibrant flavors, and dishes that are both healthy and comforting. One such dish that embodies these qualities is the Broccoli Greens Vietnamese Soup. This recipe puts a delightful twist on traditional Vietnamese pho, integrating the nutritional powerhouse of broccoli greens into a nourishing broth that warms the soul. Broccoli greens, often overlooked in favor of the more familiar broccoli florets, are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making them an excellent addition to any meal.

This soup, with its aromatic broth and tender noodles, offers a perfect way to enjoy these greens while indulging in the classic flavors of Vietnamese cooking. Whether you are a long-time lover of Vietnamese food or a newcomer eager to explore, this Broccoli Greens Vietnamese Soup promises a tasty and healthful culinary experience.

The Significance of “Canh” in Vietnamese Cuisine

In Vietnamese culture, “canh” refers to a category of soup or broth-based dishes that play an integral role in Vietnamese cuisine. Unlike western soups which are often served as starters, Vietnamese “canh” is considered an essential part of the main meal. The word “canh” is thought to derive from a Chinese term referring to food cooked in water.

“Canh” represents the harmony between yin and yang in a meal through its combination of broth and vegetables. The broth provides the “watery” yin element while the vegetables and herbs offer the “solid” yang. This balance encapsulates the Vietnamese philosophy of food as medicine. Different “canh” are served at various times of day and occasions. Lighter veggie and herb-based canh are preferred for breakfast while heartier canh with meats are more common at lunch and dinner.

Introducing Broccoli Greens Vietnamese Soup

Broccoli Greens Vietnamese Soup represents a fresh and healthy take on the classic canh recipe. Known as “Canh Rau Broccoli” in Vietnamese, this light yet satisfying soup makes use of the entire broccoli plant. both florets and leaves. It combines the nutritional benefits of broccoli withbright flavors from garlic, ginger and lemongrass. The addition of broccoli greens gives this canh a unique taste and texture while optimizing the health value.

This Vietnamese soup offers an inviting comfort, perfect for a simple weeknight supper or as the starter to a larger meal. While traditional in essence, it modernizes the classic canh with green, gluten-free ingredients. Read on for everything you need to know to prepare this delicious Broccoli Greens Vietnamese Soup.

How To Cook Broccoli Greens Vietnamese Soup?

Ingredients and Substitutions

The beauty of Broccoli Greens Vietnamese Soup is that it requires just a handful of humble ingredients likely in your kitchen already:

• Broccoli – one large head or equivalent florets and leaves, chopped
• Garlic – 3 to 5 cloves, minced
• Ginger – one 2-inch piece, peeled and minced
• Lemongrass – lower white portion of one stalk, minced
• Low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth – 6 cups
• Fish sauce or soy sauce – 2 Tbsp
• Ground black pepper – 1/4 tsp or to taste
• Water – 2 cups

Substitutions:

If you can’t find broccoli greens or prefer a simpler route, just increase the broccoli florets. Kale, cabbage or bok choy also work well in place of broccoli.

For a vegan version, use soy sauce instead of fish sauce and vegetable broth rather than chicken. Add cubed extra-firm tofu for extra protein.

Those avoiding gluten can use tamari rather than soy sauce. Replace wheat noodles with rice noodles if including.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

Making this nourishing Broccoli Greens Vietnamese Soup is simple with these step-by-step instructions:

1. Wash the broccoli florets and greens well. Trim off thick stems from leaves. Cut florets and leaves into bite-sized pieces.
2. Peel and mince the garlic, ginger and lemongrass.
3. In a large stockpot, bring the vegetable or chicken broth and water to a boil over high heat.
4. Add the broccoli florets and greens to the broth. Cook for 5 minutes until bright green.
5. Stir in the minced garlic, ginger and lemongrass. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
6. Season with fish sauce (or soy sauce) and black pepper to taste.
7. Serve warm garnished with extra garlic, pepper, cilantro or green onions if desired.

Tips for Success:

• Cut the broccoli florets and greens evenly for consistent cooking.
• Simmer the broth slowly to infuse the garlic, ginger and lemongrass flavors.
• Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving. The soup should have a light, clean flavor.

Health Benefits and Nutrition

Homemade Broccoli Greens Vietnamese Soup offers a powerhouse of nutrition in each bowl. Let’s look at the health perks of the main ingredients:

• Broccoli – Packed with vitamin C, vitamin K, folate and potassium. Contains the antioxidant sulforaphane proven to lower cancer risk. Rich in fiber for healthy digestion.
• Garlic – Provides allicin and sulfur compounds credited with boosting immunity and heart health. Known for its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties.
• Ginger – Loaded with protective antioxidants like gingerol. Known to ease nausea, inflammation, pain and digestive issues.
• Lemongrass – High in antioxidants and polyphenols to reduce oxidation and cell damage. Provides antimicrobial benefits to combat bacteria.

This light soup delivers on nutrition without the extra calories. Each bowl has about:

• 50 calories
• 3 g fiber
• 2 g protein

It provides 25% DV of vitamin C, 10% DV of vitamin K plus smaller amounts of B-vitamins, potassium, iron and magnesium.

The Role of Canh in Vietnamese Culture

Beyond its nutritional value, this Vietnamese soup carries cultural significance. “Canh” is considered one of the main pillars of a proper Vietnamese meal by balancing and complementing the other dishes. Lighter veggie and herb-based canh like this one most often accompany morning or midday meals.

The Vietnamese believe food and medicine share the same origin. Fresh ingredients and broth provide “cooling” yin energy to create harmony within the body. Eating an array of colorful vegetables is key to well-being. Serving family-style allows diners to customize their soup to their personal preferences and needs.

Sitting down together for bowls of steaming canh encourages conversation and connection. This dish represents the Vietnamese ethos of community, wellness and balance through food.

Cooking Tips for Maximize Flavor

Adjust these tips as you prepare Broccoli Greens Vietnamese Soup:

• Soak lemongrass and ginger beforehand to extract more flavor
• Simmer broth longer to intensify taste
• Finish with a splash of lime juice for brightness
• Mix in pureed garlic and chili paste for added intensity
• Garnish bowls with torn cilantro, basil or mint
• Add a dash of chile oil or sriracha for a spicy kick
• For more texture, add shiitake mushrooms, bok choy or edamame
• Cook rice noodles in the broth for a heartier dish

This soup truly adapts to your preferences. Don’t be afraid to experiment!

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Enjoy Broccoli Greens Vietnamese as:

• A starter soup before Pho, Bun or other Vietnamese dishes
• A light lunch with crusty bread or rice on the side
• An accompaniment to salad and protein for dinner
• A savory broth to sip on all day

Delicious pairings include:

• Grilled shrimp, chicken or pork
• Vermicelli rice noodles
• Vietnamese spring rolls
• Fried tofu or egg rolls
• Classic Nuoc Cham dipping sauce

Sip your canh alongside:

• Fresh juices like orange, pineapple or watermelon
• Light and fragrant green tea, jasmine tea or chrysanthemum
• Vietnamese coffee served hot or iced

Storage and Reheating

Properly stored, leftover Broccoli Greens Vietnamese Soup will keep for 3 to 4 days refrigerated. Reheat gently before serving.

Here are some storage tips:

• Allow soup to cool completely before storing in an airtight container.
• Place in refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking.
• If reheating a large portion, do so in a saucepan over medium-low heat. For individual portions, use the microwave.
• Add a splash of broth or water to thin out as needed before reheating.
• Bring to a simmer, stirring frequently to prevent scalding.
• Add any additional cooked protein just before serving to avoid drying out.

With proper storage and reheating, you can enjoy multiple bowls of this nutritious canh.

Conclusion: Broccoli Greens Vietnamese Soup

In conclusion, this fresh take on traditional Broccoli Greens Vietnamese Soup offers a tasty, healthy meal bursting with flavors and nutrients. Taking a little time to seek out broccoli greens brings an authentic taste and added nutrition. This lighter canh makes an excellent starter soup or satisfying light lunch. Experiment with ingredients and serve alongside Vietnamese dishes and drinks for an immersive cultural experience. However you decide to enjoy it, this veggie-packed Broccoli Greens Vietnamese Soup nourishes your body and soul.