Lotus seed soup with meatballs is a dish that not only pleases the palate but also offers significant nutritional value for family meals. This soup is both refreshing and enticing, thanks to the harmonious combination of ingredients like shiitake mushrooms, seasoned ground pork, lotus seeds, and fresh vegetables. In this article, we’ll explore a detailed guide on how to prepare this soup, from ingredients and steps to useful tips for achieving the perfect dish.

Ingredients for Lotus Seed Soup with Meatballs

Nguyên liệu Số lượng
Giò sống 100g
Nấm hương 10 tay nấm (ngâm nấm 2 -3 giờ)
Hạt sen 100g (hạt sen khô ngâm 4-5 giờ)
Súp lơ xanh 200g
Cà rốt 1 củ to
Bắp non trái nhỏ 100g
Củ hành tím 1 củ
Ngò Rí (rau mùi), hành lá  một ít
Nước mắm 1m.c
Mirin 4 m.c
Muối 1/2 m.c
Dầu ăn 1m.c

How to Make Nutritious Lotus Seed Soup

1. Prepare the Ingredients

Before cooking, prepare the ingredients as follows:

  • Shiitake mushrooms: Soak in lightly salted water, rinse thoroughly, and trim off the stems. If using dried mushrooms, soak them in warm water until soft.
  • Shallot, cilantro, and green onion: Finely chop for seasoning the soup.
  • Broccoli: Cut into small florets, soak in salted water, and rinse clean.
  • Carrot: Slice thinly or carve into decorative shapes if desired.
  • Baby corn: Slice lengthwise for easier cooking.
  • Seasoned ground pork: Mix with a little ground pepper. Use small portions to stuff the shiitake mushrooms, shaping them into round meatballs.

2. Cook the Soup

  • Heat 1 tablespoon of cooking oil in a pot and sauté the shallots until fragrant. This enhances the aroma and flavor of the soup.
  • Add 1.2 liters of filtered water (or bone broth) to the pot and bring it to a boil.
  • Once boiling, add the lotus seeds and carrots. Cook until tender.
  • Add the baby corn and broccoli, simmering for another 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
  • Season the soup with ½ teaspoon of salt, 4 tablespoons of mirin, and 1 tablespoon of fish sauce to taste.
  • Gently add the meatballs into the pot and simmer for about 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning as needed before turning off the heat.

3. Garnish and Serve

Ladle the soup into a bowl, garnish with chopped cilantro and a sprinkle of ground pepper to enhance the flavor.

Tips for Enhancing the Flavor of Lotus Seed Soup

  • When wrapping the ground pork around the mushrooms, use just enough to prevent them from falling apart during cooking. Excessive filling may separate from the mushrooms during prolonged cooking.
  • Avoid overcooking the shiitake mushrooms, as this can compromise their texture and distinctive flavor.
  • For added variety, include other vegetables like peas or pumpkin to enrich the dish.

 

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