Name: Chinese Winter Melon Soup with Meatballs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 500 g winter melon, peeled and cubed; 250 g ground pork; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 1 teaspoon cornstarch; 1 egg white; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon grated ginger; 6 cups chicken broth; 1/2 teaspoon white pepper; Salt, to taste; 2 green onions, sliced; Fresh cilantro, for garnish

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Table of Contents: Chinese Winter Melon Soup with Meatballs

Chinese Winter Melon Soup with Meatballs

WINTER MELON SOUP RECIPE: A Comforting Chinese Tradition

Remember those long, slow-cooked soups your mother or grandmother used to make? The kind that filled the house with a warm, inviting aroma and nourished the soul? This winter melon soup recipe brings back those cherished memories, offering a taste of authentic Chinese comfort food perfect for a cozy evening or a special family gathering. It’s a dish that’s both incredibly flavorful and surprisingly easy to make, even if you’re new to Chinese cuisine.

This isn’t just any soup; it’s a celebration of simple, fresh ingredients. The delicate sweetness of the winter melon beautifully complements the savory meatballs, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. We’ll be making the meatballs from scratch, ensuring a tender and juicy texture that elevates the entire experience.

Whether you’re looking for an authentic Chinese soup to impress your guests, a light yet satisfying meal, or a comforting remedy on a chilly day, this chinese meatball soup is sure to become a new favorite. It’s a wonderful addition to holiday meals, family dinners, or even a simple weeknight when you crave something wholesome and delicious.

This recipe is a testament to the power of slow cooking and the beauty of traditional Chinese flavors. It’s a dish that’s been passed down through generations, and we’re thrilled to share it with you.

Alternate Names & Variations

This delightful soup goes by several names, including dong gua tang (冬瓜湯) in Cantonese and dong gua rou wan tang (冬瓜肉丸湯) in Mandarin. You might also find it referred to as Chinese Winter Gourd Soup. Variations exist depending on regional preferences; some recipes include dried shrimp for added umami, while others incorporate mushrooms or tofu.

For a lighter version, you can omit the meatballs and enjoy a simple, clear winter melon soup. If you’re looking for another comforting chinese meatball soup variation, consider a version with ginger and scallions as the primary flavoring agents.

Ingredients: Winter Melon Soup Recipe

Chinese Winter Melon Soup with Meatballs

FOR THE MEATBALLS:

* 1 pound ground pork (or dark meat chicken, 450g)
* 2 tablespoons water
* 2 ½ tablespoons light soy sauce
* 2 tablespoons Shaoxing wine (Chinese cooking wine)
* 1 teaspoon sesame oil
* ½ teaspoon ground white pepper
* ½ teaspoon sugar
* 1 egg white
* 1 tablespoon ginger (minced)
* 1 scallion (finely chopped)
* ¼ teaspoon salt

FOR THE REST OF THE SOUP:

* 1 package glass noodles (mung bean vermicelli, about 50g)

* 1 pound winter melon (450g)
* 1 tablespoon oil
* 2 scallions (white parts only, chopped; set aside or freeze the greens for a stir-fry!)
* 4 cups chicken stock (or pork/chicken stock; about 1L)
* 2 cups water (475 ml)
* ½ teaspoon ground white pepper
* ½ teaspoon sesame oil
* Salt (to taste)
* Large handful of cilantro (chopped)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine all meatball ingredients. Using your hands (or a stand mixer with the paddle attachment), mix vigorously for 5-7 minutes until the mixture becomes a sticky paste. This is crucial for tender meatballs!

2. Shape the Meatballs: Wet your hands slightly to prevent sticking. Roll the meat mixture into small, 1-inch meatballs.
3. Blanch the Meatballs: Bring a pot of water to a boil. Gently add the meatballs and cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until they float to the surface. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside. This step helps to remove impurities and ensures the meatballs stay firm in the soup.
4. Prepare the Winter Melon: Peel the winter melon (see FAQ below!). Remove the seeds and cut the flesh into 1-inch cubes.

5. Sauté the Scallions: Heat the oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped scallion whites and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
6. Add Stock and Water: Pour in the chicken stock and water. Bring to a boil.
7. Cook the Winter Melon: Add the winter melon cubes to the boiling broth. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the winter melon is tender.

8. Add Meatballs and Noodles: Add the blanched meatballs and glass noodles to the soup. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the noodles are translucent and the meatballs are heated through.
9. Season and Serve: Season with white pepper, sesame oil, and salt to taste. Stir in the chopped cilantro just before serving. Ladle into bowls and enjoy! Chef’s Tip: A dash of light soy sauce can enhance the savory flavor.

Recipe Card Block (Quick Reference)

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4
Approximate Calories: 350 per serving (estimated)

Why This Recipe Works & Expert Tips

This winter melon soup recipe truly shines because of the careful attention to detail in both the meatball preparation and the slow simmering of the winter melon. The vigorous mixing of the meatball ingredients creates a binding that results in incredibly tender and flavorful meatballs. The blanching step is also key – it prevents the meatballs from falling apart during the longer simmering process.

The slow simmering of the winter melon allows it to fully absorb the flavors of the broth, becoming incredibly sweet and tender. This is truly easy comfort food for family dinners and a fantastic way to introduce your loved ones to the delicate flavors of Chinese cuisine. Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasoning to your liking; a little extra soy sauce or a pinch of sugar can make all the difference.

Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Tips

Leftover winter melon soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The noodles may absorb some of the broth over time, so you might want to add a little extra water or stock when reheating.

For longer storage, you can freeze the soup, but the texture of the noodles may change slightly. It’s best to freeze the soup without the noodles, and then add freshly cooked noodles when reheating. To reheat, simply bring the soup to a simmer on the stovetop or in the microwave. This authentic chinese soup freezes well, making it a great make-ahead option for busy weeknights.

People Also Ask: Winter Melon Soup Recipe

What does winter melon soup taste like?

Winter melon soup has a remarkably delicate and refreshing flavor. The winter melon itself is mildly sweet, almost like a cucumber but with a more subtle sweetness. This sweetness is beautifully balanced by the savory flavors of the meatballs and the aromatic broth. It’s not a heavy or overpowering soup; instead, it’s light, clean, and incredibly soothing.

Many describe it as a comforting and subtly flavorful experience, making it a popular choice for those seeking a nourishing and easy-to-digest meal. This winter melon soup recipe is a great introduction to the flavors of Chinese cuisine.

Do you have to peel winter melon for soup?

Yes, you absolutely need to peel winter melon before using it in soup. The skin is very tough and waxy and is not edible. Use a sturdy vegetable peeler or a knife to carefully remove the thick green skin.

The flesh underneath is pale green to white and has a slightly firm texture. Don’t worry if the melon feels quite hard; it softens beautifully during the simmering process. Properly preparing the winter melon is key to enjoying this chinese meatball soup.

How do you make Chinese meatballs from scratch?

Making Chinese meatballs from scratch is easier than you might think! The key is to mix the ground meat with water and seasonings and then really work the mixture. This develops the protein and creates a sticky, elastic texture that results in tender meatballs.

Don’t be afraid to use your hands – it’s the most effective way to achieve the right consistency. Blanching the meatballs before adding them to the soup also helps them hold their shape and stay juicy. This winter melon soup recipe relies on these homemade meatballs for the best flavor.

What are the health benefits of winter melon soup?

Winter melon is incredibly nutritious and offers a range of health benefits. It’s low in calories and high in water content, making it a hydrating and filling food. It’s also a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants.

Traditionally, winter melon is believed to have cooling properties and is often used in Chinese medicine to help with digestion and detoxification. Enjoying this winter melon soup recipe is a delicious way to incorporate these health benefits into your diet.

Conclusion: Winter Melon Soup Recipe

I hope you’ll give this winter melon soup recipe a try! It’s a truly special dish that’s sure to bring a little bit of comfort and warmth to your table. Don’t be intimidated by making the meatballs from scratch – it’s a rewarding process that elevates the entire soup. I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your photos and comments below, and let me know how it turned out. Happy cooking!