Introducing the delectable “Chinese-Style Shrimp Soup” – a dish that embodies speed, lightness, and an explosion of flavor, perfect as an enticing appetizer or a satisfyingly light lunch option. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, earning rave reviews from dinner guests time and time again. Plus, if you’re looking to switch things up, there’s a versatile chicken variation waiting to be explored, simply by substituting prawns with sliced cooked chicken breast and swapping out the stock for chicken stock.
Let’s delve into the culinary magic of this Asian-inspired creation, with its swift preparation time of just 25 minutes from start to finish, including a mere 10 minutes of cooking. This dish effortlessly falls into the “< 30 Mins" and "Easy" categories, making it a go-to choice for busy weekdays or impromptu gatherings.
To begin your gastronomic adventure, gather your ingredients: 1/4 cup of water, 3 tablespoons of cornflour, 4 carrots, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 3 cups of Chinese cabbage, 250 grams of fresh prawns (or chicken breast for the alternative version), 1 cup of shallots, 2 sliced water chestnuts, and a handful of snow peas. Each component harmonizes to create a symphony of flavors, while keeping the dish light and refreshing.
Now, let’s get cooking! Start by blending the water smoothly with the cornflour in a small bowl, ensuring no lumps remain, then set it aside for later use. In a large pan, combine your choice of stock (vegetable or chicken) with the finely chopped carrots and soy sauce, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil. Allow it to simmer over a medium heat for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the carrots to soften slightly.
Next, it’s time to introduce the star of the show – the succulent prawns (or chicken breast) along with the vibrant Chinese cabbage, fragrant shallots, and crunchy water chestnuts to the simmering stock. Let them cook together for 4 minutes, allowing the ingredients to mingle and infuse the broth with their essence.
Now, it’s time to elevate the soup to new heights of flavor and texture. Stir in the cornflour mixture that you prepared earlier, along with the crisp snow peas and a drizzle of aromatic sesame oil. Keep stirring continuously as the soup gently simmers, allowing it to thicken slightly and develop a luscious texture.
Once the soup reaches the desired consistency and the flavors have melded beautifully, it’s time to serve up this culinary masterpiece. Ladle the soup into 4 serving bowls, ensuring each portion receives a generous helping of prawns, crunchy vegetables, and savory broth.
Finally, garnish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro or green onions for a burst of color and freshness, then serve immediately to eager diners who are sure to be delighted by this tantalizing creation.
Nutritionally, each serving of this Chinese-style shrimp soup packs a punch, with only 176 calories per serving. It’s low in fat, with just 3.5 grams per serving, and boasts a protein content of 16.8 grams, making it both delicious and nutritious.
In conclusion, this Chinese-style shrimp soup is a culinary gem that embodies the essence of Asian cuisine – fast, flavorful, and effortlessly elegant. Whether you’re seeking a quick and easy meal or looking to impress dinner guests with minimal effort, this recipe is sure to become a beloved favorite in your culinary repertoire. So why wait? Get ready to embark on a culinary journey filled with tantalizing flavors and culinary delights with this sensational soup recipe!
