Chinese winter melon soup, or 冬瓜汤 (dōngguā tāng), is a refreshing and healthy staple in Chinese cuisine. Known for its mild sweetness and subtle flavor, winter melon is surprisingly versatile, lending itself beautifully to both simple and elaborate soups. This light yet satisfying soup is perfect for a hot summer day, offering a welcome respite from heavier meals. Its low-calorie nature and abundance of vitamins make it a nutritious choice for a healthy diet, and the simple preparation makes it ideal for even the busiest weeknights.
This recipe emphasizes ease and deliciousness, showcasing the best qualities of this humble vegetable. We'll guide you through the process of creating a flavorful broth that perfectly complements the delicate taste of the winter melon. Ready to experience the simplicity and health benefits of this classic Chinese soup? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions.
Tools Needed
- Pot
Ingredients
- Pork Hock (or pork spare ribs/bones)
- Winter Melon: 1 large wedge
- Honey Dates: 5
- Ginger: 2 pieces
- Southern Almonds (small)
- Dried Mandarin Orange Peel: 1 1/2
- Water: 10 cups
- Salt: 2 teaspoons
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients
- Rinse main ingredients (pork hock, winter melon, honey dates, ginger, almonds, mandarin peel) in cold water.
- Cut the winter melon into large chunks, leaving the skin on (optional).
Step 2. Boil and Simmer
- Soak the main ingredients in a pot with 10 cups of water. Bring to a boil.
- Parboil the pork hock for 5-10 minutes.
- Add the parboiled pork hock and winter melon to the pot.
- Bring the water to a boil, then simmer for 1.5-2 hours at low to medium heat.
Step 3. Finish and Serve
- Remove the pork hock from the soup. Remove the meat and serve separately or use for another dish.
- Add salt to taste (about 2 teaspoons).
- Mix well and serve.
Read more: Chinese Wonton Soup: Thousand-Li Fragrance Recipe
Tips
- This soup is good for both winter and summer. In winter, it warms you up; in summer, it cools you down.
- You can make this soup without meat, but adding meat makes it tastier.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 400-500
- Fat: 20-30g
- Carbs: 25-35g
- Protein: 25-35g
FAQs
1. Can I use other vegetables in this soup?
Absolutely! Add ingredients like carrots, corn, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrients. Just be mindful of cooking times; some vegetables will need to be added later than the winter melon.
2. What if I don't have dried shrimp?
No problem! Dried shrimp adds a savory depth, but you can omit it entirely or substitute with a pinch of salt and a touch of chicken or vegetable broth for extra flavor.
3. How can I make this soup vegetarian/vegan?
Simply omit the dried shrimp and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Make sure to check that any other ingredients you add, such as soy sauce, are also vegetarian/vegan-friendly.
Enjoy this simple yet flavorful Chinese winter melon soup as a light lunch, a refreshing side dish, or a comforting end to a busy day. Its versatility makes it a perfect addition to any meal plan, offering a healthy and delicious escape from the ordinary. With minimal effort, you can savor the delightful taste of this classic Chinese recipe.