Opo Squash with Fish Soup

The Opo Squash with Fish Soup is an authentic Cambodian recipe, featuring the distinctive flavor of opo squash, a member of the gourd family similar to zucchini. This soup is not just a culinary delight but also carries cultural significance, with an interesting tale associated with one variety of opo squash shaped like a bottle, believed by an old Khmer tale to contain a pure black magic potion. However, due to religious and superstitious beliefs, some Khmer individuals choose not to consume opo squash, considering it a mix of religion and black magic.

To prepare this soup, water is brought to a boil in a soup pot, and then a whole trout or catfish, cleaned and cut into chunks, is added along with the sliced opo squash. The fish and squash are cooked until the fish reaches a tender consistency, creating a flavorful base for the soup. The next step involves seasoning the soup with roasted rice powder, fish sauce, and sugar, enhancing the taste profile with savory and sweet notes.

The final touch to the Opo Squash with Fish Soup includes topping it with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of black pepper, adding freshness and a hint of spiciness. This delightful soup is best enjoyed hot and paired with rice. Beyond its culinary appeal, the dish reflects the rich cultural tapestry of Cambodia, where traditional beliefs and stories continue to influence daily practices, even in the choice of ingredients.

Ingredients

Directions to make Opo Squash with Fish Soup

1. Put water in a soup pot, cook till water bubbling, add fish and opo squash to boiling water, cook till fish tender.
2. Seasoning with roasted rice powder, fish sauce and sugar.
3. Top with green onion and black pepper.
4. Serve hot with rice.

Serve hot with rice.

Enjoy it

Related Recipe: Vegetable Fish Stew