Soup > Slow Cooker Soups > Meat Soups > Pork Soups

Slow Cooker Spare Ribs Soup with Watercress and Apricot Kernels Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 lbs. spare ribs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece ginger, peeled and sliced
- 1 tbsp. vegetable oil
- 6 cups water
- 1 cup watercress, chopped
- 1/4 cup apricot kernels
- 2 tbsp. soy sauce
- 1 tbsp. rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp. brown sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste

Special equipment needed:
- Slow cooker

Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the spare ribs and brown them on all sides. Transfer the ribs to the slow cooker.
2. In the same pan, add the onion, garlic, and ginger. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the mixture to the slow cooker.
3. Add the water, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the ribs are tender.
5. In a separate pan, toast the apricot kernels over medium heat until they are lightly browned. Remove from heat and let cool.
6. Once the ribs are cooked, add the watercress to the slow cooker and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
7. Serve the soup hot, topped with the toasted apricot kernels.


Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 6-8 hours
5. Temperature:
Low heat setting on the slow cooker
Serving size:
4-6 servings

Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 380
Fat: 24g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 30g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Pork shoulder or beef chuck can be used instead of spare ribs.
- Spinach or kale can be used instead of watercress.
- Almonds or cashews can be used instead of apricot kernels.

Variations:
- Add sliced mushrooms to the soup for an earthy flavor.
- Use chicken broth instead of water for a richer flavor.
- Add a splash of sherry or white wine for a more complex flavor.

Tips and tricks:
- Brown the ribs before adding them to the slow cooker for added flavor.
- Toast the apricot kernels in advance to save time.
- Adjust the seasoning to taste.

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

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

Presentation ideas:
Serve the soup in individual bowls, topped with the toasted apricot kernels.

Garnishes:
Fresh herbs, such as cilantro or parsley, can be used as a garnish.

Pairings:
Serve the soup with crusty bread or steamed rice.

Suggested side dishes:
A simple green salad or roasted vegetables would pair well with this soup.

Troubleshooting advice:
If the soup is too thick, add more water or broth to thin it out. If it is too thin, let it cook for an additional hour to reduce the liquid.

Food safety advice:
Make sure the ribs are cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F to ensure they are safe to eat.

Food history:
Spare ribs soup is a traditional Chinese dish that is often served during the winter months.

Flavor profiles:
This soup has a savory and slightly sweet flavor, with a hint of bitterness from the watercress and apricot kernels.

Serving suggestions:
Serve this soup as a main course for a comforting and satisfying meal.

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Taste: Savory, Tangy, Sweet, Umami, Herbal