Craving a comforting and flavorful soup that's both easy to make and incredibly satisfying? Look no further than this simple yet delicious Cabbage Soup with Meatballs recipe! This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner, offering a hearty and healthy meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The tender meatballs, infused with savory herbs and spices, perfectly complement the sweetness of the cabbage and the rich broth. This recipe is budget-friendly, using readily available ingredients, and easily adaptable to your preferences – add extra vegetables, spice it up, or swap the meat for a vegetarian alternative.
This incredibly versatile soup is guaranteed to become a family favorite. Ready to dive into the simple steps and create this delicious bowl of comfort? Let’s get started with the step-by-step instructions below!
Tools Needed
- Clay pot
- Dough maker
- Pan
Ingredients
- Chicken stock: 1.5 liters
- Cabbage (pointed): half a
- Pork: 700 grams
- White pepper: 1 teaspoon
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Sugar: 1 teaspoon
- Ginger juice: 1 tablespoon
- Chinese cooking oil: 1 tablespoon
- Light soy sauce: 1 tablespoon
- Sesame seed oil: 1/2 tablespoon
- Dried mushroom (hydrated and chopped): 1 piece
- Spring onion
- Cornstarch solution
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Soup Base and Meatballs
- In a clay pot, combine 1.5 liters of chicken stock and half a pointed cabbage. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer.
- Mix 700 grams of minced pork with 1 teaspoon of white pepper, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of sugar, 1 tablespoon of ginger juice, 1 tablespoon of Chinese cooking oil, 1 tablespoon of light soy sauce, 1/2 tablespoon of sesame seed oil, 1 piece of chopped dried mushroom and some spring onions. Use a dough maker for even mixing.
Step 2. Form and Brown the Meatballs
- Divide the meat mixture into 6 portions and roll them into balls. Gently toss the meatballs with a cornstarch solution to prevent sticking and browning.
- In a pan over medium-low heat, brown the meatballs on all sides. This step adds flavor and texture.
Step 3. Combine and Cook
- Add the browned meatballs to the simmering cabbage soup. Cover and cook for approximately 20 minutes.
Step 4. Serve
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish and serve hot.
Read more: Chinese Wonton Soup: Thousand-Li Fragrance Recipe
Tips
- Making your own minced meat ensures better control over quality and cleanliness.
- Using a dough maker helps incorporate air into the meatball mixture, resulting in a lighter texture.
- The cornstarch solution helps create a crispy exterior on the meatballs and prevents them from falling apart in the soup.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of cabbage?
Yes! While Napa cabbage is traditional, you can substitute with green cabbage, savoy cabbage, or even bok choy. The cooking time might vary slightly.
2. Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can form the meatballs and even cook them separately a day in advance. Just add them to the soup during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking.
This Super Easy Chinese Cabbage Soup with Meatballs is a recipe you'll want to keep in your back pocket for a quick and satisfying meal any time. The vibrant flavors and simple preparation make it perfect for busy weeknights or a comforting weekend lunch. Enjoy the delicious results of your culinary efforts!