Tomato Egg Drop Soup Canh Trung Ca Chua Recipe

There’s a certain magic in creating a soul-soothing soup from simple ingredients, and this savory concoction is just the ticket for those cozy nights when you need a warm hug in a bowl.

Tomato Egg Drop Soup, or Canh Trung Ca Chua, is one of my favorite comforting dishes, combining the rich flavors of chopped tomatoes and chicken broth. I love how the beaten eggs swirl beautifully into the simmering soup, creating a silky texture.

Nutritionally, it’s a delightful source of protein and vitamins, especially with the addition of fresh ingredients like garlic, onion, and scallions. A splash of fish sauce adds a savory depth, and I always finish it with a sprinkle of cilantro for a fresh, aromatic touch.

Tomato Egg Drop Soup Canh Trung Ca Chua Recipe Ingredients

• Garlic: Rich in antioxidants, adds aromatic warmth and depth.
• Onion: Provides a sweet, savory base with aromatic notes.
• Tomatoes: Packed with vitamins, gives a tangy, fresh flavor.
• Chicken Broth: Adds savory richness, full of protein and minerals.
• Eggs: Excellent source of protein, lends a silky texture.
• Fish Sauce: Imparts a salty umami depth essential for authenticity.
• Scallions: Offers a mild onion flavor with a hint of freshness.
• Cilantro: Optional garnish that adds herbal brightness and color.

Tomato Egg Drop Soup Canh Trung Ca Chua Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 large tomatoes, chopped
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• 2 scallions, chopped
• Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish (optional)

How to Make this Tomato Egg Drop Soup Canh Trung Ca Chua Recipe

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.

2. Add the chopped tomatoes to the pot and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and release their juices.

3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.

4. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

5. In a small bowl, beat the eggs thoroughly.

6. Slowly pour the beaten eggs into the simmering soup, stirring gently with a fork or chopsticks to create delicate ribbons of egg.

7. Add the fish sauce, sugar, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

8. Turn off the heat and add the chopped scallions, stirring them into the soup.

9. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

10. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.

Tomato Egg Drop Soup Canh Trung Ca Chua Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Large pot
2. Wooden spoon or spatula
3. Knife
4. Cutting board
5. Small bowl
6. Fork or chopsticks
7. Measuring spoons

FAQ

• Q: Can I use a different type of broth instead of chicken broth?
  
  A: Yes, you can substitute vegetable broth or any other type of broth you prefer.
• Q: How can I make the soup vegetarian?
  
  A: To make the soup vegetarian, use vegetable broth and omit the fish sauce or replace it with a vegetarian alternative.
• Q: What type of tomatoes should I use?
  
  A: Roma tomatoes or vine-ripened tomatoes work well due to their juicy texture and rich flavor.
• Q: Can the soup be prepared in advance?
  
  A: Yes, the soup can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before serving.
• Q: Is there a substitute for fish sauce if I don’t have any?
  
  A: Soy sauce can be used as a substitute for fish sauce, though it will slightly alter the flavor.
• Q: How can I adjust the flavor if the soup is too salty?
  
  A: If the soup is too salty, add more broth or water to dilute the saltiness, and adjust seasoning as needed.
• Q: What can I serve with the soup?
  
  A: Tomato Egg Drop Soup pairs well with steamed rice or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Tomato Egg Drop Soup Canh Trung Ca Chua Recipe Substitutions and Variations

• Vegetable oil: Substitute with olive oil or canola oil for a slightly different flavor.
• Chicken broth: Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version or water with a bouillon cube for convenience.
• Fish sauce: Substitute with soy sauce or tamari for a different flavor profile or to keep it vegetarian.
• Fresh cilantro: Use fresh parsley or basil if preferred.

Pro Tips

1. Egg Drop Technique When adding the beaten eggs, pour them slowly in a thin stream while gently stirring the soup in one direction. This will create more uniform egg ribbons.

2. Tomato Preparation If you prefer a smoother texture, peel the tomatoes before chopping. You can easily peel them by scoring a small “X” on the bottom and briefly blanching them in boiling water, then transferring to an ice bath.

3. Intensifying Flavor For extra depth of flavor, consider roasting the garlic and onions before adding them to the pot. This can enhance the sweetness and complexity of the soup.

4. Herb Infusion Add a few cilantro stems to the soup as it simmers and remove before serving to impart a subtle cilantro aroma without overpowering the dish.

5. Enhanced Heat Control When pouring in the eggs, reduce the heat to the lowest setting or temporarily remove the pot from the heat. This helps prevent the eggs from overcooking and ensures they remain silky.