Watercress, with its peppery bite and vibrant green hue, is more than just a garnish; it's a nutritional powerhouse packed with vitamins and minerals. This humble vegetable forms the heart of a surprisingly comforting and flavorful soup, particularly when combined with the rich depth of a pork shank. Our authentic Chinese watercress soup recipe elevates this simple ingredient into a culinary masterpiece, perfect for a chilly evening or a restorative meal anytime. The delicate balance of flavors—the earthy watercress, the savory pork, and a subtle hint of ginger—creates a symphony on your palate.
This recipe isn't just about the delicious end result; it's about the journey of creating it. We'll guide you through each step, from prepping the ingredients to achieving the perfect broth consistency. Ready to embark on this culinary adventure and discover the magic of homemade Chinese watercress soup? Let's dive into the detailed, step-by-step instructions below.
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Strainer
Ingredients
- Watercress
- Honey Dates
- Chinese Almonds
- Ginger: a few pieces
- Pork Shank
- Water: 10-12 cups
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients and Blanch Pork
- Bring 10-12 cups of water to a boil in a pot.
- Wash the honey dates, almonds, and ginger thoroughly.
- Put the pork shank in boiling water and let it boil for 5-10 minutes to remove impurities and fat.
Step 2. Simmer the Soup with Pork Shank
- Add the parboiled pork shank to the boiling soup stock.
- After about half an hour of cooking, remove the pork shank, cut it into bite-sized pieces, and return it to the soup.
Step 3. Add Watercress and Continue Simmering
- Cut the watercress into 3-inch pieces and rinse at least twice (or three times).
- Add the rinsed watercress to the soup stock. Simmer for about 2 hours at low heat.
- Continue to simmer for another hour and a half.
Read more: Chinese Wonton Soup: Thousand-Li Fragrance Recipe
Tips
- Rinse the watercress thoroughly to remove any dirt or impurities.
- Don't wait too long to cut the pork shank after removing it from the soup, as it becomes too tender and soft.
- Pork shank is a good, fairly lean cut.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I substitute the pork shank with another type of meat?
Yes, you can use pork ribs, chicken thighs, or even beef bones for a richer broth, but the cooking time might need adjustment.
2. What if I don't have all the ingredients listed?
Don't worry! Feel free to omit ingredients like the dried shrimp or mushrooms if you don't have them on hand. The soup will still be delicious.
This authentic Chinese watercress soup, with its rich pork broth and peppery greens, is a testament to the simple elegance of Chinese cuisine. We hope you enjoyed this recipe and the journey of creating it as much as we did. Now, gather your ingredients and experience the satisfying warmth of this delicious and nourishing soup.