Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb spare ribs
- 1 bunch watercress, washed and trimmed
- 1/4 cup apricot kernels
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, sliced
- 6 cups water
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- None
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large pot, add the spare ribs, water, onion, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour until the meat is tender.
3. Remove the spare ribs from the pot and set aside.
4. Add the watercress and apricot kernels to the pot and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Add the soy sauce and Shaoxing wine to the pot and stir well.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve the soup with the spare ribs on top.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Temperature:
- None
Serving size:
- 4 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 25g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Pork shoulder can be used instead of spare ribs.
- Bok choy or spinach can be used instead of watercress.
- Almonds or walnuts can be used instead of apricot kernels.
Variations:
- Add sliced shiitake mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
- Use chicken instead of pork for a lighter soup.
- Add a dash of sesame oil for extra flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Skim off any foam that rises to the surface of the soup while cooking.
- Add the watercress and apricot kernels towards the end of cooking to prevent them from becoming too mushy.
- Serve with steamed rice for a complete meal.
Storage instructions:
- Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the soup in a pot over low heat until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the soup in individual bowls with the spare ribs on top and garnish with chopped scallions.
Garnishes:
- Chopped scallions or cilantro.
Pairings:
- Steamed rice or noodles.
Suggested side dishes:
- Steamed vegetables or a simple salad.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the soup is too salty, add more water to dilute the flavor.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to wash the watercress thoroughly before using.
Food history:
- Spare ribs soup is a popular dish in Chinese cuisine, often served during the winter months for its warming properties.
Flavor profiles:
- The soup has a savory and slightly sweet flavor from the spare ribs and apricot kernels, with a fresh and slightly bitter taste from the watercress.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the soup hot as a main dish.
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