Cambodian Spiced Pork Ball Soup

Cambodian Spiced Pork Ball Soup Recipe - Authentic Cambodian Cuisine

Region / culture: Cambodia | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 35 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Cambodian Spiced Pork Ball Soup is a flavorful and comforting dish that is perfect for a chilly day. This soup is made with a delicious combination of cellophane noodles, chicken stock, smoked ham, ground pork, water chestnuts, and soy sauce. The addition of the spiced pork balls adds a unique and tasty twist to this traditional Cambodian soup.

History

This recipe has been passed down through generations in Cambodian families as a way to warm up during the cold winter months. The combination of ingredients in this soup reflects the rich culinary history of Cambodia, with influences from Chinese and Vietnamese cuisines.

Ingredients

1 cup of cellophane (bean thread) noodles, soaked in cold water for 15 minutes and cut into 6-inch lengths
6 cups of chicken stock
0.5 cup of smoked ham, finely chopped
0.5 cup of ground pork
2 tbsp of minced water chestnuts
0.5 tsp of cornstarch
1 tbsp of soy sauce

How to prepare

Boil the stock in a large saucepan and stir in the soaked and cut cellophane noodles.
Reduce the heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
Meanwhile, mix together the minced ham, pork, and water chestnuts with the cornstarch and soy sauce.
Shape the meat into small balls and drop them into the soup. Continue cooking over moderate heat for another 15 minutes.
Taste. If the broth is too concentrated, dilute it with a little water.
When ready to serve, ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with scallions.
Provide your guests with any tools they request and assure them that you won't laugh as they enjoy the soup.

Variations

Add chopped vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.
Use ground chicken or turkey instead of pork for a lighter version of this soup.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to soak the cellophane noodles in water before adding them to the soup to ensure they cook evenly.

- When shaping the pork balls, wet your hands with water to prevent the mixture from sticking to your hands.

- Adjust the seasoning of the soup to your taste by adding more soy sauce or salt if needed.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Cambodian Spiced Pork Ball Soup with steamed rice or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Boiling

- Simmering

Ingredient Substitutions

Use tofu or tempeh instead of pork for a vegetarian version of this soup.

- Substitute fish sauce for soy sauce for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the pork balls ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the soup with fresh herbs such as cilantro or Thai basil for a pop of color and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Cambodian Spiced Pork Ball Soup with a side of pickled vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Cambodian Spiced Pork Ball Soup contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Cambodian Spiced Pork Ball Soup contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Cambodian Spiced Pork Ball Soup contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Cambodian Spiced Pork Ball Soup contains approximately 15 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

This soup is a good source of vitamin C, iron, and calcium.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy and wheat allergens.

Summary

Cambodian Spiced Pork Ball Soup is a nutritious and delicious dish that is rich in proteins and vitamins. It is a great option for a hearty and satisfying meal.

Summary

Cambodian Spiced Pork Ball Soup is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. This soup is packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a great option for a satisfying meal. Enjoy this traditional Cambodian recipe with your family and friends!

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was many years ago, during my travels through Southeast Asia, that I stumbled upon a small Cambodian village nestled in the lush countryside. The people there were warm and welcoming, eager to share their customs and traditions with me.

One day, as I wandered through the bustling market, my senses were overwhelmed by the sights and sounds of the vibrant place. The air was filled with the fragrant aroma of exotic spices and the sound of vendors calling out their wares. My eyes were drawn to a little old woman sitting at a makeshift stall, carefully rolling small balls of spiced pork mixture into a bubbling pot of broth.

Intrigued by the delicious smell wafting from her pot, I approached the woman and struck up a conversation with her. She spoke in a language I could not understand, but through a series of gestures and smiles, she invited me to watch as she prepared her soup. I watched in awe as she deftly seasoned the pork with a blend of fragrant spices, shaping them into perfect little balls before dropping them into the simmering broth.

I knew then that I had to learn how to make this soup for myself. The old woman, sensing my curiosity, took me under her wing and taught me the recipe for Cambodian Spiced Pork Ball Soup. She showed me how to mix the ground pork with garlic, ginger, lemongrass, and a blend of spices that filled the air with an intoxicating aroma. She taught me how to shape the mixture into small balls and gently drop them into a pot of simmering broth, where they would cook until tender and flavorful.

As I watched and learned, I felt a deep sense of connection with the old woman and her village. I realized that food was a universal language, capable of bridging the gap between cultures and creating bonds of friendship and understanding. I thanked the woman profusely for sharing her recipe with me and promised to carry on her tradition in my own kitchen.

Since that day, Cambodian Spiced Pork Ball Soup has become a beloved dish in my household. I have made it for family gatherings, special occasions, and quiet nights at home. Each time I prepare the soup, I am transported back to that bustling market in Cambodia, the warm smile of the old woman guiding me through the steps of the recipe.

As I stir the fragrant broth and shape the pork mixture into tiny balls, I feel a sense of gratitude for the connections I have made through food. The recipe for Cambodian Spiced Pork Ball Soup is more than just a dish to me - it is a reminder of the kindness and generosity of the people I have met on my travels, and a testament to the power of food to bring us together in unexpected ways.

And so, as I sit down to enjoy a steaming bowl of Cambodian Spiced Pork Ball Soup, I offer a silent thank you to the old woman who shared her recipe with me all those years ago. Her soup has become a cherished part of my culinary repertoire, a reminder of the beauty and richness of the world we live in. And for that, I will always be grateful.