Lotus seed soup with meatballs is a heartwarming dish that combines rich flavors with excellent nutritional benefits. This traditional soup is not only a delight for the taste buds but also a fantastic way to nourish the body, thanks to its balanced combination of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. The tender meatballs, aromatic shiitake mushrooms, and subtly sweet lotus seeds create a perfect harmony of taste and texture.
Whether you’re preparing a comforting meal for your loved ones or looking for a healthy soup to enjoy on a cool evening, this recipe offers a perfect blend of simplicity and elegance. With just a few key ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can create a bowl of lotus seed soup that is both satisfying and wholesome.
In this article, we’ll take you through a step-by-step guide on how to prepare this delicious dish, from selecting the right ingredients to cooking techniques that enhance its flavor.
1. Ingredients for Lotus Seed Soup with Meatballs
Ingredients for Lotus Seed Soup with Meatballs
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Seasoned ground pork | 100g |
| Shiitake mushrooms | 10 pieces (soak for 2-3 hours) |
| Lotus seeds | 100g (if dried, soak for 4-5 hours) |
| Broccoli | 200g |
| Carrot | 1 large piece |
| Baby corn | 100g |
| Shallot | 1 piece |
| Cilantro, green onion | A small amount |
| Fish sauce | 1 teaspoon |
| Mirin | 4 teaspoons |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Cooking oil | 1 teaspoon |
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.
Lotus seed soup with meatballs is not just a delicious dish but also a wholesome addition to your family’s meals. The combination of tender meatballs, sweet lotus seeds, and fresh vegetables makes this soup both nutritious and satisfying. Whether you’re serving it as a light dinner or a comforting meal on a cool day, this dish is sure to bring warmth and nourishment to your loved ones.
By following the steps outlined in this guide and applying the useful cooking tips, you can easily prepare a flavorful and well-balanced soup. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different vegetables or seasonings to customize the dish to your taste.
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