This elegant whole winter melon soup is a classic Cantonese delicacy that looks stunning on any dinner table. The winter melon acts as both a vessel and a primary ingredient, infusing the broth with a subtle, refreshing sweetness as it steams. Inside, tender chicken breast, silky lotus seeds, and crisp bamboo shoots create a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. The long, gentle steaming process allows the ingredients to meld together, resulting in a clear, aromatic broth that is deeply comforting yet light. Perfect for special occasions or when you want to serve something visually impressive, this soup highlights the delicate flavor of the melon while providing a satisfying, protein-rich meal. It&# 226;ÂÂs a wonderful way to enjoy seasonal produce in a traditional, restaurant-quality presentation.
Whole Winter Melon Soup B1
Description
This elegant whole winter melon soup is a classic Cantonese delicacy that looks stunning on any dinner table. The winter melon acts as both a vessel and a primary ingredient, infusing the broth with a subtle, refreshing sweetness as it steams. Inside, tender chicken breast, silky lotus seeds, and crisp bamboo shoots create a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. The long, gentle steaming process allows the ingredients to meld together, resulting in a clear, aromatic broth that is deeply comforting yet light. Perfect for special occasions or when you want to serve something visually impressive, this soup highlights the delicate flavor of the melon while providing a satisfying, protein-rich meal. It&# 226;ÂÂs a wonderful way to enjoy seasonal produce in a traditional, restaurant-quality presentation.Ingredients
Directions
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Wash the winter melon thoroughly. Slice off the top lid about 3 inches from the stem to create a cap.
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Carefully scoop out the seeds and pulp from the center of the melon to create a hollow shell.
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Make tiger-teeth notches approximately 3/4-inch deep around the rim of the melon opening. Pare off the outer green skin from these notches to reveal the white flesh.
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Cut the fleshy part of the melon into small pieces inside the shell or set aside to be added back later if preferred, though traditionally the shell holds the soup.
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Place the hollowed melon into a large, ovenproof bowl or container that fits inside a steamer or deep pot.
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Inside the melon, combine the chicken broth, diced chicken breast, lotus seeds, diced ham, and bamboo shoots.
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Prepare a large deep pot or kettle. Pour 3 inches of boiling water into the bottom. Place a clean kitchen towel in the bottom of the pot to prevent direct contact with the water.
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Place the bowl containing the melon on top of the towel in the pot. Bring the four corners of the towel up over the bowl/melon to help stabilize it and make removal easier.
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Cover the pot tightly and steam over medium heat for 2 hours. Check the water level after the first hour; add more boiling water if it drops below 3 inches.
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The melon is done when the white meat lining the shell becomes translucent.
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Just before serving, add the diced abalone into the melon and steam for an additional 1 minute.
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To serve, carefully scoop the softened melon flesh from the sides into the broth. Ladle the soup and ingredients into serving bowls.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 454.9kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 22.4g35%
- Saturated Fat 5.0g25%
- Cholesterol 147.2mg50%
- Sodium 323.9mg14%
- Total Carbohydrate 5.2g2%
- Dietary Fiber 1.4g6%
- Sugars 2.1g
- Protein 52.6g106%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
