Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with an extraordinary culinary journey that combines the earthy sweetness of yam, the delicate texture of sweet potato leaves, and the umami-rich depth of dried shrimp. This authentic Vietnamese soup is not just a meal, but a vibrant celebration of flavors that will transport you straight to the bustling streets and serene countryside of Vietnam. Whether you're a culinary adventurer or someone seeking a nutritious and comforting dish, this recipe promises to be a game-changer in your home cooking repertoire.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Vietnamese
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- yam, peeled and diced
- sweet potato leaves
- dried shrimp
- water
- garlic, minced
- salt
- pepper
- lime juice
Instructions
- Wash sweet potato leaves thoroughly under cold running water, then chop into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
- Rinse dried shrimp in warm water to remove any debris, then soak in hot water for 5 minutes to rehydrate. Drain and roughly chop.
- Peel the yam and dice into small, uniform cubes approximately 1-inch in size to ensure even cooking.
- In a medium-sized pot, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant and lightly golden, about 1-2 minutes.
- Add chopped dried shrimp to the pot and stir-fry for an additional 2 minutes to release their savory flavor.
- Pour water into the pot, enough to cover the ingredients by about 2 inches. Bring the liquid to a gentle boil.
- Add diced yam to the boiling water and reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer for about 8-10 minutes until yam is partially tender.
- Add sweet potato leaves to the pot and continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes until leaves are wilted and yam is completely soft.
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Stir gently to combine all ingredients.
- Remove from heat and finish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice just before serving.
- Ladle the hot soup into serving bowls, ensuring an even distribution of yam, leaves, and shrimp in each portion.
Tips
- Ingredient Selection: Choose fresh, crisp sweet potato leaves and firm yams for the best texture and flavor.
- Dried Shrimp Preparation: Ensure thorough rinsing and proper rehydration of dried shrimp to maximize their savory potential.
- Garlic Technique: Sauté garlic until just golden to prevent burning and release its full aromatic profile.
- Cooking Timing: Monitor yam and sweet potato leaves cooking time carefully to maintain ideal tenderness.
- Seasoning Secret: Add lime juice at the end to brighten the soup's flavors and provide a fresh, zesty finish.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve hot immediately after cooking to preserve the soup's vibrant colors and delicate textures.
- Optional Enhancements: Consider adding a sprinkle of chopped green onions or a dash of chili for extra complexity.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
