With winter well on it’s way, I can’t think of a better way to warm up after returning home from the cool outdoors than by drinking a warm Chinese soup — it will warm you from the inside out.
This one is relatively easy to make, is great for children and may be helpful as we are well into cold & flu seasons as there are mild benefits that may be helpful. The chicken soup base provides a nutritious base, while the apricot kernels help with phlegm expulsion (for those pesky coughs). In addition, the wolfberries are high in antioxidants, irons and vitamin A and C. The carrots and Chinese radish add sweetness and, if you eat them (which we hope you do!) are deliciously filling, too.
Hope you enjoy this soup and bundle up!
Soup Name: Chinese Radish and Chicken Soup
Traditional Chinese Soup Name: 青紅蘿蔔雞湯 (qing hóng luóbo ji tāng)
Ingredient Name: White radish, radish, oriental radish, Japanese radish, daikon
Chinese Name:白蘿蔔 (bái luóbo)
One of my favorite roots to eat of all time! Both cooked (in soups, stews, dishes, dim sum) and raw ( as the Japanese appetizers). This type of root absorbs the flavor of whatever ingredients you use to marinate or cook it in and it has a very particular and unique taste that almost borders slightly bitter, but not quite.
What is this?
Mildly flavoured and pale coloured radish
It is often found in East Asian dishes (such as soups and stews)
They can be found in various colours such as green or white and variations in between
Their sizes vary and can grow to be 8-14 inches in length
Different varieties of the Chinese radish can come in various shapes as well depending how they are grown and where they come from
How do I prepare it?
Wash thoroughly in cool water
Peel skin prior to use as the skin is tougher than regular carrots
Where can I buy this?
Available in fresh marts in Hong Kong
Also available in supermarkets
What is the cost?
Radishes are relatively affordable
Any benefits?
White radishes aid in digestion
Low in saturated fats and cholesterol
Excellent food for weight loss
Any precautions?
It is considered a cooling food
Not ideal to be consumed if you have a cough or cold
Pregnant women and those menstruating should take caution as it may cause contractions if consumed in great amounts
Any additional information?
Store in a cool, dry place
You will know that the radish has gone bad when the texture is no longer firm to the touch
Soup Name: Chinese Radish with Carrots in Pork Broth
Traditional Chinese Name:青紅蘿蔔湯 (qing hóng luóbo tāng)
Introduction:
This is a very common soup made in Chinese households. The combination of Chinese radish and carrots makes the soup very sweet and the Chinese radish has a particular taste when boiled (especially green ones). With its minimalist ingredient list, it is ideal for children.
