Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 lbs spare ribs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 bunch watercress, washed and trimmed
- 1/4 cup apricot kernels
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, sliced
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 6 cups water
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot with lid
- Strainer
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the spare ribs and brown on all sides, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger and sauté for 2 minutes.
4. Add the water, soy sauce, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 hour.
6. In a separate pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add the apricot kernels and boil for 5 minutes. Drain and set aside.
7. After 1 hour of simmering, add the watercress and apricot kernels to the pot with the spare ribs. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
8. Remove from heat and let cool for a few minutes.
9. Use a strainer to remove the spare ribs, watercress, and apricot kernels from the soup. Set aside.
10. Use a blender or immersion blender to puree the remaining soup in the pot until smooth.
11. Return the spare ribs, watercress, and apricot kernels to the pot with the pureed soup. Reheat if necessary.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Temperature:
Simmer on low heat
Serving size:
4-6 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 400
Fat: 25g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 35g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Pork shoulder can be used instead of spare ribs.
- Spinach or kale can be used instead of watercress.
- Almonds or walnuts can be used instead of apricot kernels.
Variations:
- Add sliced shiitake mushrooms to the soup for extra flavor.
- Use chicken instead of pork for a lighter soup.
- Add a dash of rice wine vinegar for a tangy twist.
Tips and tricks:
- Brown the spare ribs well for extra flavor.
- Use a blender or immersion blender to puree the soup for a smoother texture.
- Adjust the seasoning to taste.
Storage instructions:
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat in a pot over low heat until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve in individual bowls with a sprig of watercress on top.
Garnishes:
Chopped scallions or cilantro can be sprinkled on top for extra flavor.
Pairings:
Serve with steamed rice or crusty bread.
Suggested side dishes:
A simple salad or stir-fried vegetables would be a great side dish.
Troubleshooting advice:
If the soup is too thick, add more water or broth to thin it out.
Food safety advice:
Make sure the pork is cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
Food history:
Braised spare ribs soup is a traditional Chinese dish that is believed to have originated in the Guangdong province.
Flavor profiles:
This soup is savory and slightly sweet with a nutty flavor from the apricot kernels.
Serving suggestions:
This soup is perfect for a cold winter day or as a comforting meal when feeling under the weather.
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