How to Make Chinese Soup with Pork and Chinese Medicine Herbs

Chinese soup, especially when combined with pork and traditional Chinese medicine herbs, is not only delicious but also beneficial for your health. These soups are rich in flavors and nutrients, making them a perfect choice for nourishing your body. Below, we will explore how to make a traditional Chinese soup using pork and medicinal herbs.

Ingredients

To prepare this revitalizing Chinese soup, gather the following ingredients:

• 500 grams of pork (preferably pork ribs or pork belly)
• 1.5 liters of water
• 20 grams of Goji berries
• 20 grams of lotus seeds
• 10 grams of dried angelica root (Dong Quai)
• 10 grams of Chinese dates (jujubes)
• Slices of ginger (about 5 grams)
• 2-3 garlic cloves, smashed
• Salt to taste
• Green onions for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Pork

Start by rinsing the pork under cold water to remove any impurities. Cut the pork into bite-sized pieces. To enhance the flavor of the soup, you can blanch the pork. To do this, bring a pot of water to a boil, add the pork, and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. Remove the pork, rinse again, and drain well.

Step 2: Soaking the Chinese Herbs

Before adding the herbs to the soup, it is best to soak them for about 30 minutes in warm water. This helps to release their flavors and medicinal properties. After soaking, drain the herbs and set them aside.

Step 3: Cooking the Soup

In a large pot, add the cleaned pork pieces and pour in the 1.5 liters of water. Bring it to a boil, and then lower the heat to allow it to simmer. After about 10 minutes, skim off any foam that rises to the surface.

Next, add the ginger, garlic, and soaked herbs into the pot. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Cover the pot with a lid and let the soup simmer gently for about 1.5 to 2 hours. This slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully while extracting the nutritious essence of the herbs.

Step 4: Final Touches

After the soup has simmered for the desired time, check the tenderness of the pork. It should be soft and easily break apart. Once satisfied, season with salt to taste. For a fresh touch, garnish with chopped green onions just before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This Chinese soup with pork and medicinal herbs pairs well with steamed rice or can be enjoyed on its own as a warming, nourishing dish. It makes an excellent option for a family meal or a comforting treat when you’re feeling under the weather.

Health Benefits

Incorporating traditional Chinese herbs like Goji berries and angelica root into your diet can enhance your overall well-being. Goji berries are known for their antioxidant properties, while angelica root is often used to support blood health and improve energy levels.

Not only does this soup provide rich flavors and health benefits, but it also exemplifies the comfort of homemade dishes. Embrace the warmth and nourishment of this traditional Chinese soup and enjoy its wholesome attributes in every bowl.