This classic Thai wintermelon soup is a comforting bowl of warmth that balances savory, herbal, and slightly sweet flavors. The clear broth, made by simmering chicken and pork bones with celery, provides a deep umami base without being heavy. Tender chunks of wintermelon absorb the broth’s essence, becoming soft and flavorful. Homemade meatballs made from ground chicken and pork, bound with a fragrant paste of garlic, cilantro, and white pepper, add texture and richness. Fresh shrimp and straw mushrooms contribute additional layers of seafood and earthiness. Finished with a sprinkle of green onions and cilantro, this dish is perfect for cold evenings or as a restorative meal. It’s a harmonious blend of traditional Thai home cooking techniques and wholesome ingredients.
Thai Wintermelon Soup
Description
This classic Thai wintermelon soup is a comforting bowl of warmth that balances savory, herbal, and slightly sweet flavors. The clear broth, made by simmering chicken and pork bones with celery, provides a deep umami base without being heavy. Tender chunks of wintermelon absorb the broth's essence, becoming soft and flavorful. Homemade meatballs made from ground chicken and pork, bound with a fragrant paste of garlic, cilantro, and white pepper, add texture and richness. Fresh shrimp and straw mushrooms contribute additional layers of seafood and earthiness. Finished with a sprinkle of green onions and cilantro, this dish is perfect for cold evenings or as a restorative meal. It's a harmonious blend of traditional Thai home cooking techniques and wholesome ingredients.Ingredients
Directions
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Place chicken and pork bones, celery, and water in a large pot. Bring to a boil.
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Reduce heat to low and simmer for 45 to 60 minutes to create a rich broth.
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While the broth simmers, blend garlic, 3/4 cup of cilantro, and ground white pepper in a blender until smooth.
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Divide the cilantro-garlic paste into two equal parts.
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Mix the first half of the paste with the ground chicken.
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Mix the second half of the paste with the ground pork.
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Shape the chicken and pork mixtures into small balls, approximately 1/2 inch in diameter.
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Strain the broth through a cheesecloth into a clean pot, discarding the bones and celery.
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Return the strained broth to the pot. Add fish sauce and salt. Bring to a rapid boil.
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Add the wintermelon chunks to the boiling broth. Cover and boil over medium heat for 10-15 minutes, until the melon is almost tender.
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Add the chicken and pork meatballs, shrimps, and straw mushrooms to the pot.
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Cook until the shrimp are pink and the meatballs are cooked through, about 3-5 minutes.
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Remove the pot from heat.
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Ladle the soup into individual serving bowls.
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Sprinkle each bowl with green onions and the remaining 1/4 cup of chopped cilantro.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4 cups
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 150kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 4g7%
- Saturated Fat 1.5g8%
- Cholesterol 60mg20%
- Sodium 900mg38%
- Total Carbohydrate 8g3%
- Dietary Fiber 1g4%
- Sugars 2g
- Protein 18g36%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.