Chinese Cabbage Soup Recipe: A Singaporean Delight

Give this Chinese cabbage soup recipe a try, and you'll have a delicious and comforting meal in no time. This soup is a popular dish in Singapore, and it's easy to see why. The soup is warming, satisfying, and full of flavour. It's a healthy and delicious option for any meal, whether you're looking for a light lunch or a comforting dinner.

To make Chinese cabbage soup, you'll need a few key ingredients. The main ingredient, of course, is Chinese cabbage, which is also known as napa cabbage. Other ingredients include meatballs, boneless chicken, dried scallops, and shitake mushrooms. You can also add seafood to the soup if you like; prawns, crab meat, and fish balls are all great options.

Once you have your ingredients, making Chinese cabbage soup is a breeze. Simply combine everything in a pot and let it simmer until the cabbage is tender and the flavours have melded together. The soup is best served hot with a side of steamed rice. 

Key Takeaways

• Chinese cabbage soup is a comforting and nutritious soup that is popular in Singapore.
• The soup is made with Chinese cabbage, meatballs, boneless chicken, and other flavourful ingredients.
• Seafood such as prawns, crab meat, and fish balls can be added to the soup for extra flavour and nutrition.

Ingredients and Substitutions

When it comes to making Chinese cabbage soup, there are a few key ingredients you'll need to have on hand. However, there's also some room for substitutions, depending on your preferences and what you have available.

Protein Choices

The protein you use in your Chinese cabbage soup is entirely up to you. Chicken, pork, and seafood are all great choices. If you're using chicken or pork, consider using bone-in cuts for added flavour. You can also use meatballs or tofu if you prefer a vegetarian option.

Vegetable Selection

Chinese cabbage is the star of the show in this soup, but you can also add other vegetables to make it heartier. Carrots, mushrooms, and Napa cabbage are all great options. You can also add other greens like bok choy or spinach.

Broth Variations

The broth you use in your Chinese cabbage soup is also up to you. Chicken, pork, or vegetable stock are all great choices. You can also use water if you don't have any stock on hand. For added flavour, consider adding soy sauce or oyster sauce. Dried scallops can also be used to add a rich umami flavour to the soup. If you're making a seafood version of the soup, consider using prawns or clams for added flavour.

Chinese cabbage soup is a versatile dish that can be adapted to your preferences and what you have on hand. With a few key ingredients and some substitutions, you can create a delicious and comforting soup that's perfect for any occasion.

Preparation Steps

Cleaning and Chopping

To prepare the Chinese cabbage soup, begin by cleaning the cabbage thoroughly. Remove any wilted or discoloured leaves and cut off the bottom of the cabbage. Cut the cabbage into bite-sized pieces and set aside.

Next, finely chop some ginger and garlic. You can use minced garlic if you prefer. Heat some cooking oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped ginger and garlic and sauté until fragrant.

Sautéing and Simmering

Add the chopped cabbage to the pot and stir well. Sauté for a few minutes until the cabbage is slightly wilted. If you want to add seafood to the soup, this is the time to do so. You can use prawns or fish fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces.

Pour in enough water to cover the cabbage and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for about 20-30 minutes until the cabbage is tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

And that's it! Your Chinese cabbage soup is ready to be served. This recipe is simple and easy to follow, with a prep time of about 15 minutes and a cook time of around 30 minutes.

Seasoning and Flavour Enhancers

When it comes to making Chinese cabbage soup, seasoning and flavour enhancers are essential to bring out the best taste in the soup. In this section, we'll discuss some of the most commonly used seasonings and flavour enhancers in Chinese cabbage soup recipes.

Balancing Flavours

Salt and pepper are the most basic seasonings used in Chinese cabbage soup. They help to balance the flavours of the soup and bring out the natural sweetness of the cabbage. Sugar is also used to add a touch of sweetness to the soup. White pepper is often used instead of black pepper as it has a milder flavour and won't overpower the other ingredients.

Light soya sauce is another common seasoning used in Chinese cabbage soup. It adds a savoury flavour and depth to the soup. Chinese cooking wine is also used to add depth of flavour and aroma to the soup. It is important to use a good quality Chinese cooking wine for the best results.

Adding Umami

Umami is a Japanese word that describes a savoury taste. It is often described as the fifth taste, after sweet, sour, bitter and salty. Adding umami to Chinese cabbage soup can help to enhance the flavour of the soup.

One way to add umami to Chinese cabbage soup is to use dried scallops. They have a rich, savoury flavour and are often used in Chinese soups and stews. Another way to add umami is to use mushrooms. Shiitake mushrooms are a good choice as they have a meaty, savoury flavour.

Seafood such as prawns or clams can also be used to add umami to Chinese cabbage soup. They have a natural sweetness and savouriness that can enhance the flavour of the soup. However, it is important to use fresh seafood and to cook it properly to avoid any food safety issues.

Serving and Presentation

Garnishing Tips

When it comes to garnishing your Chinese cabbage soup, there are plenty of options to choose from. You could opt for a simple sprinkle of chopped spring onions or coriander leaves, or you could get creative and add some sliced mushrooms, carrots, or even seafood like prawns or crab meat.

If you're looking for a pop of colour, consider adding a few slices of red chilli or a sprinkle of paprika. For added sweetness, you could also add a few drops of honey or a dash of brown sugar.

Serving Suggestions

To serve your Chinese cabbage soup, start by ladling it into individual soup bowls. A standard serving size is around 1 to 1.5 cups, depending on the size of your bowl.

When choosing your soup bowl, consider using a colour that will complement the soup, such as white or blue. You could also opt for a bowl with a pattern or design to add some visual interest.

If you're serving the soup as part of a larger meal, consider pairing it with some steamed rice or noodles. Seafood like prawns or scallops can also be a delicious addition to the soup if you're looking to add some extra protein and flavour.

Chinese cabbage soup is a versatile and delicious dish that can be enjoyed on its own or as part of a larger meal. With a few garnishing tips and serving suggestions, you can elevate this humble soup into a restaurant-worthy dish that is sure to impress your guests.

Nutritional Information

If you're looking for a healthy and delicious soup, Chinese cabbage soup is a great option. This soup is loaded with nutrients and is low in calories, making it a great choice for anyone who wants to eat well without sacrificing taste.

Here is a breakdown of the nutritional information for Chinese cabbage soup:

• Calories: Depending on the recipe you use, Chinese cabbage soup can range from 50 to 150 calories per serving.

• Saturated fat: Most Chinese cabbage soup recipes are low in saturated fat, making them a heart-healthy option.

• Unsaturated fat: Some recipes may call for the addition of healthy fats such as olive oil or sesame oil, which can provide additional health benefits.

• Sodium: It's important to watch your sodium intake when making Chinese cabbage soup, as some recipes may call for the use of soy sauce or other high-sodium ingredients. To keep your sodium levels in check, consider using low-sodium broth or soy sauce.

• Carbohydrates: Chinese cabbage is a low-carbohydrate vegetable, making it a great option for anyone who is watching their carb intake.

• Fiber: Chinese cabbage is high in fiber, which can help keep you feeling full and satisfied.

• Vitamins: Chinese cabbage is a good source of vitamins C and K, which can help support a healthy immune system and promote bone health.

• Potassium: Chinese cabbage is a natural source of potassium, which can help regulate blood pressure and support heart health.

• Iron: Chinese cabbage is a good source of iron, which is important for healthy blood and energy levels.

• Calcium: Chinese cabbage is a natural source of calcium, which is important for healthy bones and teeth.

• Cholesterol: Chinese cabbage soup is naturally low in cholesterol, making it a great option for anyone who wants to maintain healthy cholesterol levels.

If you're looking to add some seafood to your Chinese cabbage soup, consider using shrimp or scallops. These seafood options are low in calories and high in protein, making them a great addition to any healthy soup recipe.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you make a simple Chinese cabbage soup?

To make a simple Chinese cabbage soup, you will need to start by chopping up some cabbage and adding it to a pot of boiling water. You can also add some garlic, ginger, and onion for added flavour. Let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes, and then add in some salt and pepper to taste. You can also add some other vegetables like carrots or mushrooms if you like.

What's the secret to a flavourful cabbage soup?

The secret to a flavourful cabbage soup is to use a good quality stock or broth. You can make your own stock by simmering chicken or beef bones with vegetables and herbs for several hours. Alternatively, you can use a store-bought stock or broth. You can also add other flavourings like soy sauce, vinegar, or sesame oil to give your soup a unique taste.

Can I add chicken to my Chinese cabbage soup?

Yes, you can add chicken to your Chinese cabbage soup. Chicken is a great addition to cabbage soup as it adds protein and flavour. You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, or you can use a whole chicken. If you like, you can also add other meats like pork or beef.

What type of cabbage is best for making soup?

Chinese cabbage, also known as Napa cabbage, is the best type of cabbage for making soup. It has a mild flavour and a soft texture that makes it perfect for soups. You can also use regular green cabbage or savoy cabbage if you prefer.

How can I make a vegetarian version of Chinese cabbage soup?

To make a vegetarian version of Chinese cabbage soup, simply omit the meat and use vegetable stock or broth instead of chicken or beef stock. You can also add some tofu or tempeh for added protein. If you like, you can also add some other vegetables like bok choy or spinach.

What are some common Chinese soup recipes that include cabbage?

Some common Chinese soup recipes that include cabbage are hot and sour soup, egg drop soup, and wonton soup. These soups typically include other ingredients like mushrooms, bamboo shoots, and tofu. You can also add seafood like shrimp or scallops to these soups for added flavour and nutrition.