Soup > Asian Soups > Chinese Soups

Kai-lan Soup Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound kai-lan (Chinese broccoli)
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon minced ginger
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste

Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Immersion blender or regular blender

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Wash the kai-lan and chop it into small pieces, separating the stems from the leaves.
2. In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and ginger and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the kai-lan stems to the pot and sauté for 5-7 minutes until they start to soften.
4. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and let simmer for 10-15 minutes until the kai-lan stems are tender.
5. Add the kai-lan leaves to the pot and let them wilt for 1-2 minutes.
6. Using an immersion blender or regular blender, puree the soup until smooth.
7. Add the soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir well.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!


- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 25 minutes
Temperature:
- Medium heat for sautéing
- Boiling for broth
- Simmering for soup
Serving size:
- 4-6 servings

Nutritional information:
- Calories: 80
- Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Protein: 5g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Broccoli can be used instead of kai-lan
- Vegetable oil can be substituted with olive oil or coconut oil
- Chicken broth can be substituted with vegetable broth or water
- Soy sauce can be substituted with tamari or coconut aminos

Variations:
- Add cooked chicken or tofu for added protein
- Add noodles or rice for a heartier meal
- Add other vegetables such as carrots or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition

Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to separate the kai-lan stems from the leaves as they have different cooking times.
- Use an immersion blender for easier blending and less mess.
- Adjust the seasonings to your taste preferences.

Storage instructions:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
- Reheat in a pot over medium heat until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
- Serve in a bowl with a drizzle of sesame oil and a sprinkle of chopped green onions.

Garnishes:
- Chopped green onions
- Sesame seeds
- Red pepper flakes

Pairings:
- Steamed rice
- Dumplings
- Stir-fried vegetables

Suggested side dishes:
- Steamed bok choy
- Fried rice
- Egg rolls

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the soup is too thick, add more broth or water to thin it out.
- If the soup is too thin, let it simmer for longer to reduce and thicken.

Food safety advice:
- Be sure to wash the kai-lan thoroughly before using.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days.

Food history:
- Kai-lan is a leafy green vegetable commonly used in Chinese cuisine.

Flavor profiles:
- Savory
- Umami
- Nutty

Serving suggestions:
- Serve hot as a soup or as a side dish.

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Taste: Savory, Umami, Herbal, Aromatic, Balanced