Vietnamese Chayote Squash Soup Pork Meatballs Recipe

When I first stumbled upon this recipe, I knew it was going to be a game-changer: a dreamy fusion of tender pork meatballs and vibrant chayote squash simmered in a savory broth that’s basically a comforting hug in a bowl.

My affection is strong for how Vietnamese Chayote Squash Soup with Pork Meatballs brings together the freshness of the ingredients and the comfortable, warming nature of a broth. The ground pork forms tender meatballs, and the julienned chayote adds a subtle sweetness to the savory chicken broth.

Enhanced with garlic, fish sauce, and a sprinkle of black pepper (my favorite part), each bowl is a nourishing delight.

Vietnamese Chayote Squash Soup Pork Meatballs Recipe Ingredients

• Ground Pork: Rich in protein, adds savory flavor and hearty texture.
• Chayote Squash: Low in calories, high in fiber, and subtly sweet.
• Chicken Broth: Provides depth and umami, low in fat, hydrating.
• Garlic: Enhances flavor, offers natural anti-inflammatory properties.
• Fish Sauce: Adds distinct umami and slight saltiness.
• Green Onions: Offers freshness, mild flavor, and vitamin K.
• Cilantro: Aromatic, adds brightness, and has antioxidants.

Vietnamese Chayote Squash Soup Pork Meatballs Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 1 pound ground pork
• 1 chayote squash, peeled and julienned
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sugar

How to Make this Vietnamese Chayote Squash Soup Pork Meatballs Recipe

1. In a big bowl, mix together the following ingredients: ground pork, minced garlic, fish sauce, salt, freshly ground black pepper, and sugar. Combine until very well mixed.

2. Take the blended substance and fashion it into tiny spheres of meat, about 1 inch across.

3. In a big pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs, turning now and then, and cook until they’ve browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.

4. Take the meatballs out of the pot and set them aside.

5. Add the chicken broth to the same pot and bring it to a boil.

6. Add the broth to the julienned chayote squash and let it cook for about 5 minutes, or until slightly tender.

7. Put the meatballs back into the pot, turn the heat down to a simmer, and cook for 10 more minutes so that the meatballs are guaranteed to be cooked all the way through.

8. Incorporate the soy sauce and season with additional salt or pepper as necessary. You may need to taste for adjustments. This is where the balance of flavor comes in!

9. Take the pot off the stove, and mix in the diced green onions and cilantro.

10. Serve the soup hot; if desired, garnish it with more cilantro or green onions.

Vietnamese Chayote Squash Soup Pork Meatballs Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Large mixing bowl
2. Knife
3. Cutting board
4. Measuring spoons
5. Pot (large enough for soup)
6. Wooden spoon or spatula
7. Tongs or slotted spoon
8. Ladle

FAQ

• What is chayote squash?Chayote squash is a green, pear-shaped vegetable that is used a lot in the cooking of Latin Americans and the Vietnamese. It has a very light taste and a texture that is mostly crunchy.
• Can I substitute the chayote squash?Indeed, zucchini or summer squash can be used in place of chayote squash, but the taste and texture may differ slightly.
• Is the fish sauce necessary?Although fish sauce lends an authentic Vietnamese umami taste, you can swap it for soy sauce and still get a completely different—and delicious—taste profile.
• How can I make the dish spicier?To increase the broth’s spiciness level, add sliced chili peppers or a pinch of chili flakes when preparing the broth.
• Can I prepare this soup in advance?Indeed, the soup may be prepared up to a day ahead of when it is to be served and stored in the refrigerator. Before serving, heat it gently on the stovetop.
• How do I ensure my pork meatballs are tender?Do not mix the pork mixture too much. Gently combine the ingredients until just combined.
• Can I make this dish vegetarian?
  Yes, omit the pork and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add tofu or additional vegetables for substance.

Vietnamese Chayote Squash Soup Pork Meatballs Recipe Substitutions and Variations

• Ground Pork: Substitute with ground chicken or ground turkey for a lighter version.
• Chayote Squash: Use zucchini or cucumber if chayote is unavailable.
• Fish Sauce: Replace with soy sauce or tamari for a vegetarian option.
• Vegetable Oil: Swap with olive oil or coconut oil for a different flavor profile.
• Cilantro: If you don’t like cilantro, parsley can be used instead.

Pro Tips

1. Chill the Meatballs Before shaping the meat mixture into meatballs, refrigerate it for at least 15-20 minutes. This makes it easier to form uniform balls and helps them hold their shape better during cooking.

2. Flavor Depth Sauté the garlic in the vegetable oil before adding the meatballs. This brings out the garlic’s aroma and infuses the oil with extra flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.

3. Chayote Texture Ensure the chayote squash is julienned uniformly. This consistent sizing not only ensures even cooking but also provides a pleasing texture in each bite.

4. Layered Garnishing Reserve a small portion of green onions and cilantro to sprinkle over the soup just before serving to add a fresh, vibrant kick and increase the visual appeal of the dish.

5. Soy Sauce Control Add the soy sauce gradually and taste as you go. Depending on the saltiness of your chicken broth and fish sauce, you may want to adjust the amount to avoid over-salting the soup. A squeeze of lime can also enhance flavors if desired.