How to Make Vietnamese Stuffed Bitter Melon Soup (Canh Kho Qua)

Vietnamese Stuffed Bitter Melon Soup, or Canh Kho Qua, is a culinary masterpiece that beautifully balances the bitter notes of the melon with savory fillings and a light, flavorful broth. This dish is not only a staple in Vietnamese households but is also gaining popularity worldwide for its unique taste and health benefits. Want to learn the secrets to making authentic Canh Kho Qua that rivals what you’d find in the bustling streets of Vietnam? Then you’ve come to the right place. This guide will walk you through the process, offering tips and variations inspired by the authentic flavors found at Com Com Restaurant in London.

The Story of Canh Kho Qua at Com Com Restaurant

At Com Com Restaurant, Canh Kho Qua is more than just a soup; it’s a story. A story of family recipes passed down through generations, of fresh ingredients carefully sourced, and of a commitment to bringing the true taste of Vietnam to London. Our Canh Kho Qua is inspired by the bustling street food stalls of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, where the aroma of this comforting soup fills the air. We’ve taken that inspiration and elevated it, using high-quality ingredients and traditional techniques to create a dish that is both authentic and refined. We believe that food is a powerful connector, and our Canh Kho Qua is a testament to the rich culinary heritage of Vietnam.

Com Com Restaurant's Stuffed Bitter Melon Soup Ingredients

Gathering Your Ingredients: A Trip to the Vietnamese Market (or Com Com)

Creating authentic Canh Kho Qua requires fresh, high-quality ingredients. While you can find many of these at your local Asian market, Com Com Restaurant offers a convenient alternative. Our grocery section boasts a wide selection of imported Vietnamese goods, ensuring you have everything you need to recreate this dish at home. But first, let’s explore what makes this soup so special.

• Bitter Melon: The star of the show! Choose firm, unblemished melons.
• Ground Pork: Opt for a good quality blend for a rich, savory filling. Com Com offers specially imported Vietnamese pork known for its flavor.
• Wood Ear Mushrooms: These add a wonderful texture and earthy flavor. Find dried ones and rehydrate them before using.
• Glass Noodles: These delicate noodles soak up the flavorful broth beautifully.
• Aromatics: Garlic, shallots, and green onions are essential for building the soup’s aromatic base. Com Com offers fresh Vietnamese herbs that elevate the flavor profile.

Crafting Your Canh Kho Qua: A Step-by-Step Guide

Ready to get cooking? Here’s how to make Canh Kho Qua inspired by Com Com’s culinary expertise:

1. Prepare the Bitter Melon: Halve the melons lengthwise and remove the seeds and pith with a spoon. This is crucial for reducing bitterness. Blanch the melon halves in boiling water for a few minutes to further soften them.
2. Create the Filling: Combine ground pork, rehydrated wood ear mushrooms, chopped glass noodles, minced garlic, shallots, and a touch of fish sauce and black pepper. Mix well.
3. Stuff the Melon: Carefully stuff the melon halves with the pork mixture, ensuring they are tightly packed.
4. Simmer to Perfection: Place the stuffed melons in a pot with chicken or vegetable broth. Simmer gently until the melon is tender and the filling is cooked through.
5. Season and Serve: Season the soup with fish sauce, salt, and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped green onions and cilantro before serving.

Stuffed Bitter Melon Simmering at Com Com Restaurant

Tips from Com Com’s Chefs: Elevating Your Canh Kho Qua

Want to take your Canh Kho Qua to the next level? Here are some tips from Com Com’s expert chefs:

• Reduce Bitterness: Soaking the melon in salted water before stuffing can further reduce bitterness.
• Flavor Boost: Add a touch of sugar to the filling to balance the flavors.
• Texture Play: Incorporate chopped water chestnuts into the filling for added crunch.
• Broth Variations: Use a rich bone broth for a deeper flavor.

The Nourishment in Every Bowl: Health Benefits of Canh Kho Qua

Canh Kho Qua is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Bitter melon is known for its blood sugar-regulating properties, making this soup a healthy choice. It’s also a good source of vitamins and antioxidants. At Com Com, we believe in nourishing both body and soul, and our Canh Kho Qua is a perfect example of that philosophy.

Enjoying Canh Kho Qua at Com Com Restaurant

Pairing Perfection: Enjoying Canh Kho Qua at Com Com Restaurant

Canh Kho Qua is best enjoyed as part of a balanced Vietnamese meal. At Com Com, we recommend pairing it with steamed rice and a side of fresh greens. Try our Goi Cuon (fresh spring rolls) or Nem Ran (fried spring rolls) for a complete culinary experience. Come and savor the authentic flavors of Vietnam at Com Com Restaurant.

FAQs about Canh Kho Qua

• Q: Can I make this soup vegetarian? A: Absolutely! Substitute the ground pork with tofu or mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian version.
• Q: Where can I find bitter melon? A: Asian markets usually carry them. You can also find fresh bitter melon at Com Com Restaurant’s grocery section.
• Q: How do I store leftover soup? A: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

A Taste of Vietnam Awaits at Com Com Restaurant

Making Canh Kho Qua is a journey of flavors and textures. It’s a celebration of Vietnamese culinary heritage, and we invite you to experience this authentic dish at Com Com Restaurant or try making it yourself at home using our tips and high-quality ingredients. Contact us at [email protected] or 020 7720 9928, or visit us at 183-185 Battersea Park Rd, London SW11 4LB, UK. We’re open daily from 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM. We also offer delivery, bringing the taste of Vietnam straight to your door. Come, experience the heart of Vietnam through a bowl of Canh Kho Qua.