Squid Soup with Lotus Root

Squid Soup with Lotus Root Recipe from Hong Kong | Ingredients include Squid, Lotus Root, Pork Loin, and Green Beans

Region / culture: Hong Kong | Servings: 6

Introduction

Squid Soup with Lotus Root is a traditional Chinese dish that is not only delicious but also nutritious. This hearty soup is perfect for a cold winter day or when you're feeling under the weather. The combination of tender squid, crunchy lotus root, and savory pork loin creates a flavorful and comforting meal that will warm you up from the inside out.

History

Squid Soup with Lotus Root has been a popular dish in Chinese cuisine for centuries. It is believed to have originated in the southern regions of China, where both squid and lotus root are commonly found. This dish was traditionally made as a way to use up leftover ingredients and create a nourishing meal for the whole family.

Ingredients

1 piece (150 g) of dry squid
350 g of lotus root
600 g of pork loin
3 slices of ginger
5 tbsp of green bean
some salt

How to prepare

Soak the dry squid in clear water for at least 1 hour, then pour away the water.
Wash the lotus root, peel it, and chop it into thick slices.
Wash the pork loin and cut it into 4-5 pieces. Also, wash the green beans.
Put approximately 3-4 liters of water into a pot (the longer the boiling time, the more water you should use).
When the water is heated, add all the ingredients together and cover the pot well.
Boil on low heat for 2-3 hours, then add salt to serve.

Variations

Add some dried red dates or goji berries for a touch of sweetness.
Substitute the pork loin with chicken or beef for a different flavor.
Add some Chinese herbs like ginseng or astragalus for added health benefits.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Soaking the dry squid in water helps to rehydrate it and remove any excess salt.

- Boiling the soup on low heat for a few hours allows the flavors to develop and the ingredients to become tender.

- Adding salt at the end of cooking helps to enhance the flavors of the soup without making it too salty.

Serving Suggestions

Squid Soup with Lotus Root can be served as a main dish with steamed rice or noodles on the side. It can also be enjoyed as a starter or appetizer before a larger meal.

Cooking Techniques

Boil the soup on low heat to allow the flavors to develop.

- Cover the pot well to trap the steam and ensure that the ingredients cook evenly.

- Skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface of the soup while cooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

Substitute fresh squid for dry squid if it is not available.

- Use water chestnuts or bamboo shoots as a substitute for lotus root.

- Replace pork loin with tofu or mushrooms for a vegetarian version of the soup.

Make Ahead Tips

Squid Soup with Lotus Root can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat the soup on the stove before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Squid Soup with Lotus Root in individual bowls garnished with fresh cilantro or green onions. You can also add a drizzle of sesame oil or soy sauce for extra flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Squid Soup with Lotus Root pairs well with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a light salad. It can also be enjoyed with a side of pickled vegetables or kimchi for added crunch and tanginess.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Squid Soup with Lotus Root in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the soup on the stove over low heat until warmed through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Squid Soup with Lotus Root contains approximately 300 calories. This makes it a satisfying and nourishing meal that can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Squid Soup with Lotus Root contains approximately 15g of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are an important source of energy for the body and can help to keep you feeling full and satisfied.

Fats

Each serving of Squid Soup with Lotus Root contains approximately 10g of fats. Fats are essential for the body to function properly and can help to absorb vitamins and minerals.

Proteins

Each serving of Squid Soup with Lotus Root contains approximately 25g of proteins. Proteins are important for building and repairing tissues in the body and can help to keep you feeling full and satisfied.

Vitamins and minerals

Squid Soup with Lotus Root is a rich source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin B6, iron, and magnesium. These nutrients are essential for overall health and can help to boost the immune system and support proper bodily functions.

Alergens

Squid Soup with Lotus Root contains seafood (squid) and pork, which may be allergens for some individuals. It is important to check for any food allergies before consuming this dish.

Summary

Overall, Squid Soup with Lotus Root is a nutritious and delicious dish that is rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It is a satisfying meal that can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

Squid Soup with Lotus Root is a comforting and nutritious dish that is perfect for a cold winter day. This traditional Chinese soup is packed with flavors and textures that will satisfy your taste buds and warm you up from the inside out. Enjoy this delicious and hearty soup with your family and friends for a nourishing and satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for Squid Soup with Lotus Root. It was many years ago when I was visiting a small fishing village in Japan. I had always been fascinated by different cuisines and loved to learn new recipes from the locals wherever I traveled.

One day, as I was wandering through the bustling fish market, I came across a tiny food stall tucked away in a corner. The aroma of simmering broth and fresh seafood immediately caught my attention, and I knew I had to try whatever delicacy they were cooking up.

I approached the stall and struck up a conversation with the elderly woman who was tending to the pots. She had a kind smile and warm eyes, and she welcomed me with open arms. I asked her what she was making, and she proudly told me it was her special Squid Soup with Lotus Root recipe that had been passed down through generations in her family.

Intrigued, I watched as she deftly chopped up fresh squid and lotus root, adding them to the bubbling broth along with fragrant herbs and spices. The aroma that wafted from the pot was intoxicating, and I couldn't wait to taste the finished dish.

As she ladled out a steaming bowl of the soup for me, I took my first sip and was immediately transported to food heaven. The flavors were complex and balanced, the squid was tender and flavorful, and the lotus root added a delightful crunch. It was unlike anything I had ever tasted before, and I knew I had to learn how to make it myself.

I spent the next few days shadowing the kind woman in her kitchen, watching every move she made and taking meticulous notes on the ingredients and techniques she used. She patiently guided me through the process, teaching me the importance of using fresh, high-quality ingredients and allowing the flavors to meld together slowly over a low flame.

I was amazed at how simple yet how delicious the recipe was. It was a perfect balance of flavors and textures, and I knew it would become a staple in my own kitchen for years to come.

After I returned home from my trip, I wasted no time in recreating the Squid Soup with Lotus Root recipe in my own kitchen. I gathered all the ingredients I needed, including fresh squid, lotus root, and a variety of herbs and spices. As I cooked, the memories of my time in that small fishing village flooded back to me, and I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the kind woman who had shared her recipe with me.

When the soup was finally ready, I eagerly ladled out a bowl for my family to try. Their eyes lit up with delight as they took their first spoonful, and I knew I had successfully recreated the magic of that special dish.

Since then, Squid Soup with Lotus Root has become a beloved favorite in our household. It's a dish that never fails to impress guests and brings back fond memories of my time in Japan. I am forever grateful to that kind woman in the fishing village for sharing her recipe with me, and I will always cherish the experience of learning how to make it.