Stuffed Bitter Melon Soup (Canh Khổ Qua Dồn Thịt)

Stuffed Bitter Melon Soup, or Canh Khổ Qua Dồn Thịt, is a beloved dish in Vietnamese cuisine that almost every Vietnamese person knows and cherishes. It’s a staple comfort food, celebrated for its balance of lightness and nourishment. The dish features bitter melon – known for its slightly bitter taste and numerous health benefits – stuffed with a savoury mixture of pork and shrimp, all simmered in a clear, aromatic broth.

This dish carries a deep cultural significance, particularly during Tết, the Vietnamese Lunar New Year. The name Khổ Qua is derived from the Chinese language, where “Khổ” means “bitter” and “Qua” means “melon.” However, in Vietnamese, “Khổ” reminds people of “suffering,” and “Qua” sounds like “to pass.” Over time, this soup became a symbolic dish for Tết, reflecting the hope for hardships to pass, with the New Year bringing happiness and prosperity. Serving this dish during Tết is a meaningful tradition, offering wishes for good luck and a brighter year ahead.

Stuffed Bitter Melon Soup is also commonly paired with Vietnamese Braised Pork and Eggs (Thịt Kho Tàu), especially during festive occasions. This pairing offers a harmonious contrast in flavours and textures. While Thịt Kho Tàu is rich, savoury, and indulgent, the light and elegant nature of Canh Khổ Qua provides a refreshing balance, making the meal wholesome and satisfying.

Whether served during special celebrations or enjoyed as a comforting meal at home, Stuffed Bitter Melon Soup is a dish that captures the heart of Vietnamese culinary traditions. It’s not just food – it’s a symbol of resilience, hope, and the enduring wish for a better future.

In Vietnamese, “Bitter Melon” is referred to in two different ways: “Khổ Qua” and “Mướp Đắng.” People from the South commonly use “Khổ Qua,” while those in the North typically say “Mướp Đắng.” So, if you hear “Canh Mướp Đắng Dồn Thịt,” it’s another name for this soup.

Here are a few notes on my Stuffed Bitter Melon Soup recipe:

1. One of the key requirements for this soup is a broth that is both light in flavour and clear in colour. If you’re using canned broth, be sure to choose one that meets these qualities. However, the best option is always homemade broth, prepared from pork or chicken bones. Just be sure to keep the broth clear for the most authentic and elegant presentation.

2. When selecting ground pork, opt for regular rather than lean. The small amount of fat in regular ground pork enhances the flavour of the soup, making it richer and more satisfying.

3. While it ultimately comes down to personal preference, I highly recommend adding a generous amount of chopped green onion and cilantro to this soup. Use them both for marinating the meat mixture and for garnishing before serving. These two herbs significantly enhance the soup’s flavour and aroma, making it even more delightful.

Q&As on Stuffed Bitter Melon Soup

1. Can I make the filling without the shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can absolutely make the filling without the shrimp! Simply use ground pork on its own, and adjust the seasoning to suit your taste. The soup will still be delicious and comforting, with the pork providing plenty of flavour for the stuffed bitter melons. If you’d like, you can add finely chopped mushrooms or other ingredients to enhance the texture and flavour.

2. I saw a recipe recommending the use of ground pork and fish paste. Is this a good combination?

Yes, ground pork and fish paste make an excellent combination for the filling! The filling for the bitter melons in this recipe is versatile – you can use ground pork on its own, ground pork with shrimp, ground pork with fish paste, pork paste (giò sống), ground chicken, or other variations. As long as the resulting soup is light, flavourful, and balanced, the objective of this dish is beautifully achieved.

3. Instead of cooking the stuffed bitter melons in a soup, can I steam them instead?

Yes, you can steam the stuffed bitter melons instead of cooking them in a soup – it’s actually a great idea! Steamed stuffed bitter melons can be served with a simple dipping sauce, such as soy sauce, for a light and healthy option. Alternatively, you can prepare a savoury sauce made with oyster sauce, soy sauce, sugar, and cornstarch, and pour it over the steamed melons before serving. This method creates a delicious and versatile dish with a unique twist.

4. Why does bitter melon have its bitter taste?

Bitter melon has its bitter taste due to the presence of compounds called momordicins and charantin. These are natural phytochemicals found in the fruit that give it its distinct bitterness. While the taste may be strong, these compounds are also associated with various health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and blood sugar-regulating properties. The bitterness can vary depending on the variety of bitter melon, its ripeness, and how it is prepared, but it is this unique flavour that also makes it popular in traditional cuisines and medicinal practices.

5. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of this dish! Replace the meat filling with a mixture of finely chopped mushrooms, tofu, and glass noodles, seasoned with soy sauce, a pinch of salt, and a dash of black pepper. For the broth, use a vegetable-based stock instead of meat-based broth. The result will be a light, flavourful soup that’s both satisfying and perfect for a vegetarian diet.

6. I’m on a keto diet. Is this dish a good fit for my diet?

Yes, this dish is an excellent fit for a keto diet! Bitter melon is low in carbs, and the filling -made with ground pork and shrimp – provides plenty of protein and healthy fats. To ensure the dish is fully keto-compliant, use a broth without added sugars or starches, and season with keto-friendly ingredients. This light and nutritious soup is both satisfying and perfect for a low-carb lifestyle.