How to Cook Chinese Soup with Pork, Ginger, and Garlic

Cooking a delicious Chinese soup with pork, ginger, and garlic is simpler than you might think. This hearty dish is perfect for warming up on a chilly day and is packed with flavor. Below are step-by-step instructions to create a comforting bowl of Chinese soup.

Ingredients

  • 500 grams of pork (preferably shoulder or belly, cut into bite-sized pieces)
  • 4 cups of water or chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon of fresh ginger (sliced thinly)
  • 4 cloves of garlic (minced)
  • 2 spring onions (chopped)
  • 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: bok choy or other greens
  • Optional: sesame oil for drizzling

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pork

Start by selecting the right cut of pork. Pork shoulder or belly provides a rich flavor and tender meat. Cut the pork into bite-sized pieces to ensure quick cooking. Rinse the pieces under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In a large pot, add about a tablespoon of cooking oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sliced ginger. Sauté these ingredients for about two minutes until they are fragrant but not burned. This will infuse the oil with delicious flavors.

Step 3: Brown the Pork

Add the pork pieces to the pot and cook them for about 5-7 minutes until they are browned on all sides. This step is essential for developing a rich flavor base for the soup.

Step 4: Add Broth and Seasonings

Pour in 4 cups of water or chicken broth, stirring to combine the pork with the aromatics. Add the soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce the heat to let it simmer. Cover the pot and allow it to cook for approximately 30 minutes, which will make the pork tender and flavorful.

Step 5: Incorporate Greens (Optional)

If you’d like to add some greens like bok choy, chop them and add them to the pot for the last 5 minutes of cooking. This will provide extra texture and nutrients to your soup.

Step 6: Final Touch

Once the soup has simmered, taste and adjust any seasonings if needed. For an added depth of flavor, drizzle a small amount of sesame oil before serving. It enhances the aroma and gives a lovely nutty taste.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the soup hot, garnished with chopped spring onions. Pair it with steamed rice or noodles for a more filling meal. This Chinese soup with pork, ginger, and garlic is not only comforting but also nourishing, making it a perfect choice for family dinners.

Conclusion

This simple recipe for Chinese soup with pork, ginger, and garlic allows you to create a delicious meal in no time. With its rich flavors and aromatic essence, it's sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy your homemade Chinese soup!