Canh Bau Tom Vietnamese Opo Squash Soup Recipe

Discover the delightful lightness of Canh Bau Tom, a Vietnamese opo squash soup that's both simple and incredibly flavorful! Made with delicate opo squash (also known as calabash, cucuzzi, or bottle gourd), this soup boasts a refreshing cucumber-zucchini taste. Perfect as a light yet satisfying meal served over rice, or as a cooling counterpoint to rich, savory dishes like thit kho (braised pork). Learn how to prepare this easy-to-make soup, featuring succulent shrimp and a subtle broth that will awaken your taste buds. This recipe is adaptable; adjust shrimp quantity based on whether you're serving it as a main course or side dish.

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 45 mins
Calories 92.6 kcal
Protein 25g
Rating 4.3 (3 Reviews)
Canh Bau Tom Vietnamese Opo Squash Soup 26

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Recipe adapted from Food.com. Standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Canh Bau Tom Vietnamese Opo Squash Soup

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How to Make Canh Bau Tom Vietnamese Opo Squash Soup

  1. Prepare the opo squash: Wash and peel the opo squash. Cut into 1-inch cubes.
  2. Prepare the shrimp: Peel and devein the shrimp. Set aside.
  3. Simmer the broth: In a large pot, combine 6 cups of water or a mixture of 2 cups fish stock and 4 cups water. Add the opo squash and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
  4. Add shrimp and aromatics: Add the shrimp, along with minced garlic and scallions (optional). Simmer for another 5-7 minutes, or until the shrimp is pink and cooked through.
  5. Season and serve: Season the soup with fish sauce, salt, and white pepper to taste. Ladle the soup over cooked rice, if desired. Garnish with fresh cilantro or other herbs before serving.
  6. Enjoy your delicious Canh Bau Tom! Serve hot as a main course with extra shrimp, or as a side dish alongside your favorite salty Vietnamese dishes, such as Thit Kho.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

32 g

Sugar

10g

Fat

1g

Carbs

1g