Chamorro Kav Hasu
Chamorro Kav Hasu is a traditional dish from the Chamorro people of Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands. It's a unique beef soup that features a delightful blend of local flavors, making it a staple in Chamorro cuisine. Historically, this dish was a communal meal enjoyed during festive occasions where families and friends would gather. The term 'Kav Hasu' translates to beef soup, where 'kav' means beef and 'hasu' translates to soup in the Chamorro language.
Ingredients
- Beef (preferably shank or short ribs)
- Water
- Salt
- Pepper
- Onion
- Garlic
- Lemon or calamansi
- Green onions
- Soy sauce
- Lemongrass
- Ginger
- Carrots
- Cabbage
- Red bell pepper
- Potatoes
- Fish sauce
- Coconut milk
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop the onion, mince the garlic, slice the ginger, and cut the lemongrass into smaller pieces. Dice the carrots, cabbage, and red bell pepper. Peel and cube the potatoes. Cut the beef into manageable pieces, ensuring they are all roughly the same size to ensure even cooking.
Step 2: Make the Broth
In a large pot, add the beef shank or short ribs and cover them with water. Bring this to a boil, removing any scum that rises to the surface. Add salt and pepper to taste. Once boiling, reduce the heat and allow to simmer gently for approximately 1 to 2 hours to get a rich broth.
Cooking Process
Step 3: Incorporate the Vegetables
Once the beef is tender, add the chopped onion, garlic, lemongrass, and ginger. Let these cook together for about 10 minutes. Afterward, add the carrots, cabbage, red bell pepper, and potatoes. Simmer until the vegetables are fully cooked, ensuring the flavors meld together perfectly.
Step 4: Final Seasoning
As the dish approaches completion, season it with fish sauce and fresh lemon or calamansi juice to taste. This will add a vibrant acidity that balances the dish's richness. Finally, stir in a generous amount of coconut milk to give the soup a creamy texture and enhance its flavor profile.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once done, remove the soup from the heat source. Garnish with freshly chopped green onions just before serving. The bright green will add a lovely contrast to the dish, making it visually appealing while adding extra flavor.
Enjoying Chamorro Kav Hasu
This traditional soup is best enjoyed freshly prepared. Serve it hot with a side of steamed rice, which complements the hearty flavors of the soup. Consider an accompanying plate of finadene, a Chamorro condiment made from soy sauce, vinegar, and hot peppers, which can enhance the dish's flavor for those who enjoy a bit of heat. Gather with family or friends and enjoy this comforting bowl of Chamorro culture and cuisine.
Estimated Cooking Time
For precise timing in preparation and cooking, consider using a cooking timer to track each phase of the cooking process efficiently.