Chinese Cabbage Clear Soup, a staple in many Chinese households, is a surprisingly versatile and flavorful dish. Its simplicity belies its depth of taste, a testament to the magic of fresh ingredients expertly combined. This light yet satisfying soup is perfect as a starter, a light lunch, or even a comforting side dish to accompany a richer main course. The subtle sweetness of the napa cabbage blends harmoniously with the savory richness of pork and the delicate texture of tofu, creating a symphony of flavors that will leave you wanting more. This recipe emphasizes the importance of using high-quality ingredients to achieve the best possible results.
This recipe for Chinese Cabbage Clear Soup is not only delicious but also remarkably easy to prepare, even for novice cooks. We'll guide you through each step, ensuring you achieve a perfectly clear and flavorful broth. Ready to embark on a culinary journey that celebrates the simplicity and elegance of Chinese cuisine? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions below.
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Knife
- Chopping board
- Spoon
- Measuring spoons
Ingredients
- Chinese Cabbage: 1 head
- Wood ear mushrooms
- Shiitake mushrooms
- Chinese flowers
- Tofu skin
- Dried shrimp
- Spring onion
- Coriander
- Glass noodles
- Tofu: 1 tube
- Minced pork: 150 grams
- Garlic
- Pepper
- Oyster sauce
- White vinegar
- Light soy sauce
- Sugar: 1 teaspoon
- Clear soup stock (packaged)
- Water
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients
- Wash and cut the Chinese cabbage.
- Wash wood ear mushrooms, shiitake mushrooms, Chinese flowers, and tofu skin. Soak them in water for 15 minutes. Wash the dried shrimp and soak it in water.
- Chop spring onion and coriander into sections.
- Cut the tofu into bite-sized pieces.
- Mix minced pork with garlic, pepper, oyster sauce, and white vinegar.
Step 2. Cook the Broth and Pork
- Set up the pot, add water, and turn on the heat.
- Once the water is hot, add the seasoned minced pork. Shape it into small meatballs or simply add it to the pot.
- Skim off any foam and blood that rises to the surface.
- Add the clear soup stock, dried shrimp, light soy sauce, and sugar. Mix well.
- Bring back to a boil and skim off any remaining foam.
Step 3. Add Vegetables and Noodles
- Add the Chinese cabbage and simmer until cooked. Close the lid.
- Add glass noodles during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Add tofu and stir gently.
Step 4. Finish and Serve
- Add coriander and spring onions. Stir for a moment to combine the ingredients.
- Garnish with fried garlic and ground pepper.
- Turn off the heat and serve.
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Tips
- Adjust the amount of seasoning to your preference.
- You can add or omit the glass noodles based on your liking.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 400-500
- Fat: 15-25g
- Carbs: 40-50g
- Protein: 25-35g
FAQs
1. Can I substitute the pork with other meats?
Yes! Chicken or shrimp work well as substitutes. Adjust cooking time accordingly; chicken and shrimp cook faster than pork.
2. How can I make the soup vegetarian?
Simply omit the pork. You can add more tofu or other vegetables like mushrooms for extra protein and flavor.
3. What if my soup isn't clear?
Make sure you skim off any foam that rises to the surface during the simmering process. Avoid overcooking the ingredients, as this can make the broth cloudy.
This simple yet flavorful Clear Cabbage Soup with Pork and Tofu is a perfect example of how delicious and satisfying a meal can be without complicated techniques. Enjoy this comforting soup as a light meal or a delightful addition to your next Chinese-inspired feast. We hope you enjoy this recipe and that it becomes a new family favorite!