Canh Kho Qua Bitter Melon Soup Recipe

I absolutely love this bitter melon soup because it’s a perfect mix of comforting and adventurous flavors that keep me coming back for more. The blend of savory pork, flavorful fish sauce, and the slight bitterness of the melon gives me a nostalgic yet exciting culinary experience that’s super unique and satisfying.

I adore the nutritional and aromatic mix that is Canh Khổ Qua. The crispiness of the bitter melon contrasts nicely with the ground pork in this delicious soup.

The flavors of garlic, fish sauce, and soy sauce come through nicely, and the green onions and cilantro add a fresh taste to the dish. It’s low-calorie, but that just gives it a reason to be eaten at any time of the day.

Load up on the vitamins C and A that this broth and the vegetables in it provide, and feel good about the world.

Ingredients

• Bitter Melons: Packed with vitamins, they offer a unique bitter taste that’s low-calorie.
• Ground Pork: Rich in protein and essential fats, adding savory depth and heartiness.
• Garlic: Offers antimicrobial benefits alongside its fragrant, pungent flavor.
• Fish Sauce: A salty, umami-rich seasoning element that enhances flavor complexity.
• Soy Sauce: Adds a savory, slightly sweet depth and rich color to the broth.
• Green Onions: Contribute a mild, fresh onion flavor and vibrant color.
• Cilantro: Provides a fresh, citrusy aroma and garnish, enhancing presentation.

Ingredient Quantities

• 2 medium bitter melons
• 200g ground pork
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 green onions, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 liter chicken or pork broth
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Optional: chopped Thai chili for extra heat

Instructions

1. Slice the bitter melons in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds with a spoon, then submerge them in salted water for nearly 15 minutes. Moisture in the melons causes the seeds to become more bitter when cooked, so soaking the seeds in salt first will take care of that. The salt will somehow penetrate the melon tissues through the pores and help neutralize the natural alkaloid toxins that cause bitterness.

2. In a bowl for mixing, put together the ground pork, garlic that has been minced, green onions that have been finely chopped, fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is combined well.

3. Fill the empty, bitter-melon halves with pork, pressing down a bit to ensure the deliciousness is packed in.

4. In a large pot, over medium heat, warm the vegetable oil. Add to the pot any remaining garlic, and cook, stirring, until it gives off a fragrant aroma.

5. Place the stuffed bitter melons in the pot with great care. The broth of either chicken or pork must be used. Pour it in and ensure the blending melons are under the surface.

6. Allow the broth to reach a gentle boil, then lower the heat to allow the broth to maintain a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 30 to 40 minutes. Check that the bitter melons are tender and the pork is done.

7. Savor the broth and rectify the flavoring with supplementary salt or fish sauce if necessary.

8. After cooking, take the pot off the heat and allow it to rest for a few minutes. Then serve.

9. Scoop the soup out into bowls and top with freshly chopped cilantro. If desired, you can also add some chopped Thai chili to really bring the heat.

10. Canh Kho Qua is a perfect soup for any weather. Still, if you’re like me and enjoy a piping hot soup, then have it hot. It’s a perfect main dish with its protein and flavor—all you really need is Rice.

Equipment Needed

1. Cutting board
2. Chef’s knife
3. Spoon
4. Bowl (for soaking and mixing)
5. Large pot with lid
6. Stirring spoon or spatula
7. Measuring spoons
8. Ladle
9. Serving bowls

FAQ

• What is the best way to prep the bitter melon?Halve the bitter melons lengthwise and remove the seeds and pith with a spoon. If desired, soak them in salted water for 15 minutes to reduce their bitterness.
• Can I substitute pork with another protein?Indeed, you can use ground chicken or turkey as a substitute for ground pork.
• How long should I cook the bitter melon in the soup?Bitter melons should be gently cooked in the broth for about 15-20 minutes, until they are tender yet maintain their shape.
• Is the fish sauce essential?This dish is traditional with a distinct umami flavor from fish sauce, but if you need a substitute, use soy sauce.
• What if I want a vegetarian version?Substitute the pork with a plant-based alternative like tofu or a soy-based crumble and use vegetable broth in place of chicken or pork broth.
• Can I add other vegetables to this soup?Certainly, additional flavor and texture can come from adding mushrooms, carrots, or bok choy.
• Why is my soup too bitter?Make sure the bitter melon is adequately prepared, and think about soaking it for a longer time in salt water or giving it a quick blanch in boiling water before putting it in the soup. These steps reduce the bitterness of the melon and make it more palatable.

Substitutions and Variations

Bitter Melons:
Zucchini or cucumber, for a more delicate taste.
Ground Pork:
Use ground chicken or turkey for a leaner option.
Fish Sauce:
Use soy sauce or tamari to achieve a similar umami taste.
Soy Sauce:
Tamari or coconut aminos, for an alternative that is free from gluten.
Sugar:
A natural sweetness can be achieved with honey or agave syrup.

Pro Tips

1. Reduce Bitterness: After soaking the bitter melons in salted water, rinse them thoroughly to remove excess salt before stuffing. You can also blanch the melons briefly in boiling water to further reduce bitterness.