Canh Kho Qua

Canh Kho Qua is a refreshing and nutritious Vietnamese soup featuring bitter melon, which is both flavorful and health-promoting. This kosher version is perfect for a light meal, packed with vegetables and protein-rich tofu.

Ingredients

• Bitter melon - 200 grams
• Firm tofu - 150 grams
• Vegetable broth - 500 ml
• Shallots - 2 medium, chopped
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Carrot - 1 medium, sliced
• Tomato - 1 medium, diced
• Soy sauce (Kosher) - 1 tablespoon
• Salt - 1/2 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/4 teaspoon
• Fresh cilantro - 2 tablespoons, chopped
• Lime - 1, juiced

Steps

1. Wash the bitter melon, cut it in half lengthwise, and scoop out the seeds. Slice it into thin half-moons.
2. Press the tofu to remove excess moisture, then cut it into bite-sized cubes.
3. In a pot, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped shallots and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant.
4. Add the sliced carrot and diced tomato to the pot, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until slightly softened.
5. Pour in the vegetable broth, then add the bitter melon, soy sauce, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil.
6. Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for about 10 minutes until the bitter melon is tender.
7. Gently add the tofu cubes and cook for an additional 5 minutes to heat through.
8. Stir in the lime juice and chopped cilantro just before serving.

Nutrition

• Calories: 180
• Protein: 10 g
• Carbs: 18 g
• Fiber: 5 g
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 9 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

• Bitter melon is known for its potential to lower blood sugar levels.
• Tofu provides a great source of plant-based protein and contains essential amino acids.

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