Vietnamese Spinach Soup (Canh Rau Mong Toi): A Must-Try Travel Delight

Soup is an indispensable part of Vietnamese meals, and among the many varieties, Malabar spinach soup stands out as a favorite. Loved for its convenience, ease of preparation, and high nutritional value, it has become a household staple.

If you’d like to experience this delicious Vietnamese spinach soup at home, join Joy Journeys as we explore it in this article!

What is Canh Rau Mong Toi?

Malabar spinach is a nutritious vine characterized by its round, slimy stems and thick, heart-shaped leaves that alternate along the stem. It’s a superfood in Vietnamese cuisine, packed with essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamins A, C, and K, and folic acid, potassium, calcium, iron, and magnesium.

‘Canh rau mong toi’, or Malabar spinach soup, a classic dish, combines this healthy vegetable with lean meat or fresh shrimp. Variations like Vietnamese spinach soup vegetarian or Vietnamese spinach soup with chicken are also popular, showcasing its adaptability. With just 20–30 kcal per 100g, it’s a light and versatile option perfect for any diet.

Making Vietnamese Spinach Soup

Malabar spinach soup is simple to prepare and can be enjoyed by anyone at home.

Ingredients and Preparation

To make this classic dish, you’ll need:

• 300g Malabar spinach (or 1 bunch from a local market)
• 100g minced lean meat (optional substitutions: fresh shrimp, dried shrimp)
• Shallots
• Spices: salt, MSG, seasoning powder, cooking oil

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

• Prepare the Ingredients: Wash the Malabar spinach and cut it into small pieces (about 2–3 cm). If using meat or shrimp, wash thoroughly and cut into bite-sized pieces or mince.

• Cook the Base: Heat a pot on the stove with a little cooking oil. Add the shallots and sauté until fragrant. Stir-fry the meat or shrimp with a pinch of salt, seasoning powder, and MSG. Cook until the meat is done, then add water for the soup (adjust water amount based on servings). Bring to a boil.
• Add the Spinach: Once the water boils, add the prepared Malabar spinach. Cook for 2–3 minutes until the vegetables are tender. Taste the spinach soup and adjust seasoning if needed. Turn off the heat and serve hot.

Cooking Tips

For the best flavor, select Malabar spinach with dark green leaves and plenty of shoots. Smaller leaves are sweeter and more tender. Avoid covering the pot while cooking to prevent the vegetables from turning yellow.

Variations and Additions

Vietnamese spinach soup is versatile and can be adapted to different tastes. It pairs well with shrimp, clams, pork, or crab. For a vegetarian option, skip the meat and add a squeeze of lemon for a refreshing twist.

Enjoying Vietnamese Spinach Soup

Serving Suggestions

Malabar spinach soup pairs wonderfully with hot rice and other savory dishes, creating a flavorful and balanced meal. Popular accompaniments include boiled pork, braised pork, or fried tofu for a vegetarian option.

Health Benefits

Rich in nutrients yet low in calories (just 22 kcal/100g), Malabar spinach is perfect even for those on a diet. Each 100g serving contains essential nutrients like 0.8g of lipids, 55mg of sodium, 256mg of potassium, 2.1g of fiber, 3g of protein, and notable amounts of vitamin C, calcium, and iron.

Where to Try

Fresh Malabar spinach is readily available in supermarkets and local markets—just learn to say “rau mong toi” or show a photo to vendors for assistance. Many Vietnamese restaurants also offer this delicious soup on their menu.

For a truly authentic experience, join Joy Journeys’ Mekong Delta tours, where you can request Vietnamese spinach soup as part of your meal. Learn more at.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most famous Vietnamese soup?

Pho is the most famous Vietnamese soup, beloved worldwide for its rich broth and flavorful ingredients.

What is Vietnamese water spinach called?

Vietnamese water spinach is known as “rau muong,” a versatile vegetable often stir-fried, used in soups, or served fresh in Vietnamese meals.

What is rau mong toi in english?

“Rau mong toi” refers to Malabar spinach, also called vine spinach.

What is the name of Vietnamese spinach?

Vietnamese spinach, known as “rau mong toi,” is a nutritious leafy green commonly featured in “Canh Rau” or “canh mong toi,” traditional soups in Vietnamese cuisine.

Conclusion

Vietnamese spinach soup captures the heart of Vietnamese cuisine with its light, nourishing flavors and cultural charm. Whether you try making it at home or savor it in Vietnam, it’s a dish worth experiencing.