Another popular choice for hot summer days besides canh cua rau đay, or minced crab soup with jute leaves, is canh rau ngót linh xương, or star gooseberry leaf soup with pork ribs. My grandparents have a small garden where they grow star gooseberry leaf and every summer, I will go out to help them pick the leaves for this delicious and cooling dish.
Ingredients (Serves 2–3)
- Pork bones: 400g (you can use either rib bones or pork leg bones)
- Star gooseberry leaves: 300g
- Shallots: 2 bulbs
- Garlic: 1 clove
- Salt: 1 tsp
- Seasoning powder: 1 tsp
- Pepper and sugar: ½ tsp each
- Fish sauce: 1 tbsp
Tips for Choosing Ingredients!!!:
Pork ribs: Choose fresh-looking bones, avoiding any with a greenish tint or unpleasant smell. Rib bones or pork leg bones are ideal because they give a naturally sweet broth.
Star gooseberry leaves: Pick tender, dark green leaves that aren’t too mature. Avoid wilted leaves or ones with white spots to ensure the best flavor and quality.
Instruction:
Step 1: Prepare Ingredients
Pork bones: Rinse with salted water and blanch in boiling water to remove impurities and any odor. Rinse again with cold water for a clean, odor-free broth. Star gooseberry leaves: After picking, wash and gently bruise the leaves to soften them and help them absorb the broth. Shallots and garlic: Mince finely for sautéing.
Step 2: Simmer the pork bones
Place a pot of water on the stove, add the prepared pork bones, and simmer over low heat. Skim off any foam to keep the broth clear and sweet. Simmer for 30–40 minutes until the broth is flavorful and the bones are tender. Add salt and seasoning powder to enhance the taste.
Step 3: Sauté the Leaves
While the bones are simmering, heat a pan with oil and sauté the shallots and garlic until fragrant. Add the star gooseberry leaves and stir-fry quickly over high heat to retain their vibrant green color and unique flavor.
Step 4: Cook the Soup
Once the bones are done, add the sautéed leaves to the pot. Bring the soup to a boil again and simmer for 5–7 minutes until the leaves are tender and well-flavored. Season with fish sauce, pepper and other seasonings according to your preference.
Serve in a bowl and enjoy!