Dan Far Tong

Authentic Chinese Dan Far Tong Recipe - A Flavorful Delight

Region / culture: China | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Dan Far Tong is a traditional Chinese egg drop soup that is simple to make and bursting with flavor. This comforting soup is perfect for a cold day or when you're feeling under the weather.

History

Dan Far Tong has been a staple in Chinese cuisine for centuries. It is believed to have originated in the Sichuan province of China, where it was traditionally served as a light and nourishing meal for those who were sick or recovering from illness.

Ingredients

4 cups of chicken stock
2 tbsp of cornstarch
0.25 tbsp of salt
3 drops of sesame oil
0.25 tbsp of soy sauce
1 slice of onion, finely minced
1 egg, lightly beaten

How to prepare

When the mixture begins to boil, add the egg and stir with a fork to break the egg into shreds. Remove from heat once the egg is set, which should take about 1 to 2 minutes.

Variations

Chicken Egg Drop Soup: Add 2 tbsp of cooked minced chicken once the soup is done.
Mushroom Egg Drop Soup: Add 4 small sliced white mushrooms or 1 oz (28 g) of canned mushrooms, rinsed.
Tomato Egg Drop Soup: Add 0.5 cup of chopped fresh tomato before cooking.
Add cooked chicken or shrimp for a heartier version of this soup.
Stir in some fresh spinach or bok choy for added nutrients and color.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to whisk the cornstarch into the chicken stock thoroughly to avoid lumps in the soup.

- For a richer flavor, you can use homemade chicken stock instead of store-bought.

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

Serving Suggestions

Serve Dan Far Tong hot as a light meal or appetizer. Garnish with chopped green onions for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making a perfect Dan Far Tong is to slowly pour the beaten egg into the hot soup while stirring constantly to create delicate egg ribbons.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock for a vegetarian version of this soup.

- Substitute tamari for soy sauce for a gluten-free option.

Make Ahead Tips

Dan Far Tong is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Dan Far Tong in individual bowls garnished with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro or a drizzle of chili oil for a pop of color and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this soup with steamed rice or a side of stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Dan Far Tong in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Dan Far Tong contains approximately 60 calories.

Carbohydrates

Dan Far Tong is a low-carb soup, with only 2 grams of carbohydrates per serving.

Fats

This soup is low in fat, with only 1 gram of fat per serving.

Proteins

Dan Far Tong is a good source of protein, with 7 grams per serving.

Vitamins and minerals

This soup is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and calcium.

Alergens

This recipe contains eggs and soy, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Dan Far Tong is a nutritious and low-calorie soup that is packed with protein and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Dan Far Tong is a classic Chinese egg drop soup that is easy to make and full of flavor. This nutritious and low-calorie soup is perfect for a light meal or appetizer.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a happy one. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small village in China. I had always loved cooking, and I spent hours in the kitchen watching my mother and grandmother prepare delicious meals for our family.

One day, while I was out exploring the village, I stumbled upon a small roadside stall selling a dish I had never seen before. The vendor called it "Dan Far Tong," and it smelled absolutely divine. Intrigued, I decided to purchase a bowl and taste it for myself. It was a warm and comforting soup made with tender pieces of beef, fragrant herbs, and hearty vegetables. The flavors were unlike anything I had ever tasted before, and I knew that I had to learn how to make it myself.

I approached the vendor and asked her for the recipe. She smiled warmly and told me that the recipe was a family secret, passed down from generation to generation. She explained that it was a dish that was traditionally made during the cold winter months to warm the soul and nourish the body.

I begged and pleaded with her to share the recipe with me, and after much persuasion, she finally relented. She invited me to her home the following day to learn how to make Dan Far Tong from scratch. I was overjoyed and could hardly contain my excitement.

The next day, I arrived at the vendor's home bright and early, ready to learn the secrets of this delicious dish. She welcomed me into her kitchen and began to walk me through the recipe, explaining each step in detail. I watched intently as she chopped vegetables, simmered the broth, and added the various spices and seasonings that gave Dan Far Tong its unique flavor.

After hours of cooking and preparing, the soup was finally ready. The vendor ladled a steaming bowl for each of us to enjoy. As I took my first sip, I felt a rush of warmth and comfort flood over me. The flavors were even more delicious than I remembered, and I knew that I had found a new favorite dish.

I thanked the vendor profusely for sharing her recipe with me and promised to keep it a secret, just as she had. I returned home that day with a heart full of gratitude and a belly full of delicious Dan Far Tong.

Over the years, I have made this recipe countless times for my family and friends, each time sharing the story of how I learned to make it. It has become a treasured tradition in our household, a dish that we enjoy during the cold winter months to warm our bodies and our souls.

I am forever grateful to the kind vendor who shared her family recipe with me all those years ago. Dan Far Tong will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the joy and warmth that comes from sharing food with those we love.