Many individuals tend to have the habit of rubbing Rau Ngót while washing, believing it helps clean the vegetable and makes it softer for cooking. However, according to clinical nutritionist Dr. Hoàng Thị Thúy Hà from the Institute of Clinical Nutrition, this practice is not beneficial. Rubbing the vegetable can lead to a reduction in its inherent nutritional value.

Avoid Rubbing Rau Ngót While Washing
If you prefer softer Rau Ngót in your cooked dishes, it is recommended to wash the vegetable thoroughly and gently rub it before placing it in boiling water. However, do not rinse the vegetable again, and avoid crushing it.
Guide to Cooking Delicious and Nutritious Rau Ngót Soup
Ingredients:
- Rau Ngót: Approximately 200g
- Broth: 1-1.5 liters (adjust according to taste)
- Fresh shrimp: Around 100g (optional: substitute with chicken or pork)
- Onion: 1 small, sliced
- Scallion: 1 small, chopped
- Tofu: 100g (optional)
- Salt, pepper, cooking oil
Cooking Instructions:
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Prepare the Rau Ngót:
- Rinse the vegetable thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt and sand.
- Gently rub the Rau Ngót to separate the leaves from the stems.
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Prepare the broth:
- Bring the broth to a boil, then add the onion and scallion to infuse flavor.
- If using tofu, add it to the broth for a sweeter taste.
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Cook the soup:
- Once the broth is boiling, add the shrimp. If using meat, season according to your preference.
- When the shrimp or meat is cooked, add the prepared Rau Ngót, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Skim off any foam that forms on the surface.
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Final Touches:
- Turn off the heat when the Rau Ngót is tender, which should take around 2-3 minutes after adding it to the pot.
- Drizzle a small amount of cooking oil over the soup to enhance its aroma and appearance.
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- Ladle the soup into bowls, and sprinkle with chopped scallions and pepper to elevate the flavor.

Rubbing Rau Ngót
Tips:
- Rubbing Rau Ngót: It is advisable to rub the vegetable gently after thoroughly washing it. This ensures even cooking and prevents the stems from becoming fibrous in the soup.
- Seasoning Options: Feel free to enhance the flavor with fried onions or other seasonings of your choice.
- Follow the cooking steps in the provided order to achieve a bright-colored and tasty Rau Ngót soup.
We wish you success in preparing a delicious and nutritious Rau Ngót soup!