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Canh Cau

Vietnamese custard apple soup with a delicate sweet broth, a traditional hot soup trending on social media.

35 minEasyServes 4120 cal/serving

VietnameseSoupStovetopVegetarianDairy-Free

Ingredients

  • 2 medium custard apple (sugar apple), seeded and flesh removed
  • 2 tbsp fresh ginger, sliced
  • 1/4 cup rock sugar or brown sugar
  • 4 dried dates
  • 2 tbsp dried goji berries
  • 8 cups water
  • 1/8 tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp dried lily bulbs (optional), rinsed

Instructions

  1. 1

    Rinse the 2 tbsp rinsed dried lily bulbs (optional) if using and set aside.

  2. 2

    Bring 8 cups water to a boil in a large pot.

  3. 3

    Add 2 tbsp sliced fresh ginger, 4 dried dates, and dried lily bulbs (optional). Reduce heat to a gentle simmer.

  4. 4

    Simmer for 5 minutes to infuse the broth with flavors.

  5. 5

    Add the 2 medium seeded and flesh removed custard apple (sugar apple) flesh and 1/4 cup rock sugar or brown sugar. Stir gently.

  6. 6

    Continue simmering for 10-15 minutes until the flavors are well combined and the soup is fragrant.

  7. 7

    Add the 2 tbsp dried goji berries and simmer for 1-2 minutes more.

  8. 8

    Taste and adjust sweetness with more rock sugar or brown sugar if desired. Season with 1/8 tsp salt.

  9. 9

    Serve the soup hot in individual bowls, distributing the custard apple (sugar apple) pieces and garnishes evenly.

Questions

How long does Canh Cau keep?

Refrigerate it up to four days, or freeze it in portions for up to three months. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or stock to loosen it.

Can I halve or double Canh Cau?

Yes. As written it serves 4. Every ingredient in this entry carries precomputed half and double quantities, and the app's batch dial rewrites them inside each step. When doubling on the stovetop, use your widest pan or work in two batches so the food sears instead of steaming.

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