How to Make Chinese Soup with Pork and Chinese Dates

Chinese soup has long been celebrated for its rich flavors and aromatic ingredients. One delightful variation is the nutritious soup made with pork and Chinese dates. This dish not only offers numerous health benefits but also warm comfort, making it perfect for any occasion. Follow this simple recipe to create a delicious Chinese soup with pork and Chinese dates.

Ingredients

To prepare this hearty soup, gather the following ingredients:

500 grams of pork (preferably pork rib or shoulder)
10-15 Chinese dates (jujubes)
1-2 slices of ginger
2-3 green onions (scallions)
Salt to taste
Water (about 8-10 cups)

Preparation Steps

Follow these steps to make your Chinese soup:

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by cutting the pork into bite-sized pieces. Rinse the Chinese dates under cold water, removing any stems. Slice the ginger and chop the green onions, keeping the white parts separate from the green.

Step 2: Blanch the Pork

To remove impurities and excess fat, blanch the pork pieces in boiling water for 5 minutes. This process helps to create a clearer broth. After blanching, drain and rinse the pork under cold water.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in a Pot

In a large soup pot, combine the blanched pork, Chinese dates, ginger slices, and the white parts of the green onions. Add enough water to cover the ingredients, approximately 8-10 cups, depending on how much soup you want to make.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Bring the pot to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, lower the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook slowly for about 1.5 to 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the pork to become tender.

Step 5: Add Seasoning

After simmering, taste the soup and add salt according to your preference. You can also adjust other seasonings, but for a traditional flavor, it is best to keep it simple and let the natural taste of the ingredients shine through.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Just before serving, add the green parts of the chopped green onions for a fresh garnish. Ladle the hot soup into bowls, making sure each serving has a generous amount of pork and dates.

Additional Tips

For added depth of flavor, consider including other ingredients such as goji berries or dried lily bulbs. These ingredients complement the soup and enhance its nutritional value. Also, you can serve the soup with steamed rice or enjoy it as is for a light, nourishing meal.

Enjoy your homemade Chinese soup with pork and Chinese dates, a wholesome dish that showcases the essence of traditional Chinese cooking!