23-04-2025
Chef Favorites: How Helene An Incorporates Eastern Medicine at Crustacean
After the fall of Saigon in 1975, Helene An and her family absconded to San Francisco — where they worked in the Italian deli below their apartment. Chef An ('Mama') introduced Vietnamese dishes and fused cuisines to create new hits — like her famed garlic noodles. The House of An next opened Crustacean in the Bay Area followed by one in Beverly Hills. Here, chef An discusses Crustacean staples that incorporate Eastern medicine and offer health benefits.
Mama's Famous Pho Soup
» 'Pho is our go-to when we're feeling sick. Just the broth alone has so many delicious immune-boosting herbs and antioxidant ingredients: star anise, cardamom, cinnamon, Kaffir lime, grilled onion and ginger, cloves and coriander — not to mention the health benefits of bone marrow, wagyu brisket and oxtail.' $20
Kohlrabi Caesar
» With 15 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren, I had to come up with creative ways to get them to eat their veggies! I knew they loved Caesar dressing and so I created my Kohlrabi Caesar— eating Kohlrabi is like eating a bowl of broccoli loaded with vitamins and minerals. I added pepper, which is good for the metabolism. Kohlrabi is also filled with vitamin C, vitamin K, potassium, magnesium, and fiber. $24
Baked Turmeric White Fish
» I marinate my fish with turmeric, which has anti-inflammatory properties, supports heart health and is a natural detoxifier; lemongrass, which aids digestion; antioxidant-rich Thai basil, which can boost brain function; and ginger— another immune-boosting ingredient. Combined with the Dover sole, which is rich in omega-3s, enhances energy and strengthens bones, this is a power lunch favorite. $38
