How to Make Traditional Cambodian Kuy Teav Soup
If you love exploring international cuisine and warming up with a bowl of soup, then diving into Cambodian cuisine with Kuy Teav is a perfect start! Kuy Teav, a fragrant and delicious noodle soup, is a cornerstone of Cambodian culinary tradition. Typically served for breakfast, it can also be enjoyed any time of day. With its rich broth, rice noodles, and a mix of fresh and savory toppings, it’s no wonder why it’s a beloved dish. Making Kuy Teav at home may sound daunting, but with this simple guide, you can bring a taste of Cambodia into your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Broth:
- 6 cups of water
- 1 lb of pork or beef bones
- 2 garlic cloves, smashed
- 1 onion, halved and charred
- 1 chunk of rock sugar (about the size of a thumb)
- Fish sauce, to taste
- Salt, to taste
- 1 star anise
- 1 cinnamon stick
For the Soup:
- Rice noodles (enough for 4 servings)
- 1/2 lb ground pork or thinly sliced beef
- Bean sprouts
- Finely chopped spring onions
- Fresh cilantro leaves
- Lime wedges
- Hoisin sauce and chili sauce (for serving)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Broth
The soul of Kuy Teav lies in its broth. Start by placing the pork or beef bones in a large pot and cover them with water. Bring this to a boil and then lower the heat to let it simmer. You’ll see foam and impurities rise to the top; skim these off to ensure your broth will be clear and clean-tasting.
After skimming, add the smashed garlic cloves, charred onion, rock sugar, star anise, cinnamon stick, and a splash of fish sauce. Let the broth simmer gently for at least 1-2 hours — the longer, the better, as this allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Once the broth is rich and flavorful, strain it to remove the bones and spices. Adjust the seasoning with more fish sauce or a bit of salt, according to taste.
Step 2: Prepare the Noodles
While your broth is simmering, take care of the noodles. Rice noodles should be prepared according to the package instructions, which typically involve soaking or boiling. Once they’re ready, drain and set them aside. Quick tip: To prevent the noodles from sticking together, you can toss them with a tiny bit of oil.
Step 3: Assemble the Soup
This is where everything comes together! If you’re using ground pork, you’ll want to cook it in a pan until it’s fully cooked and no longer pink. For sliced beef, you can either briefly stir-fry it or simply add it to the hot broth later to cook it gently and keep it tender.
With your broth hot and ready, divide the cooked noodles among serving bowls. Top the noodles with the cooked meat, then carefully ladle the hot broth over them, paying special attention to cover the meat so it can either cook (if it’s beef) or stay warm.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Now for the fun part – adding the garnishes! Kuy Teav is typically served with a generous amount of bean sprouts, chopped spring onions, and fresh cilantro leaves on top. You can also include lime wedges on the side, allowing each person to add a squeeze of lime juice to their soup for that extra zing.
Hoisin sauce and chili sauce can be served on the side, allowing everyone to customize their bowl to their liking. Some may prefer their Kuy Teav spicy, while others might enjoy a sweeter, more savory profile.
Wrap-Up
Making Traditional Cambodian Kuy Teav Soup is a wonderful way to dive into the rich flavors and aromas of Cambodia. This dish not only satisfies hunger but also offers a comforting and warming experience. What sets it apart is the rich, homemade broth and the flexibility of toppings and garnishes, making it a versatile dish that caters to various tastes.
Cooking international dishes like Kuy Teav at home can be a delightful culinary adventure. It’s an opportunity to explore new flavors and traditions, and perhaps more importantly, to share a lovingly prepared meal with family and friends. Enjoy your adventure into Cambodian cuisine, and may your Kuy Teav be as nourishing as it is delightful!