Dried Shrimp and Radish Soup
A light, comforting Chinese soup where sweet white radish mingles with savory dried shrimp and warming ginger. Red dates add subtle sweetness while green onions provide a fresh finish.
Story
This simple soup is a staple in many Chinese households, particularly popular during cooler months. The dried shrimp imparts deep umami flavor without needing much seasoning.
Ingredients
dried shrimp
30g, soaked in warm water for 10 minutes
white radish
300g, cut into thick strips
fresh ginger
4 slices
dried red dates
5-6 pitted
green onions
2 stalks, chopped
water
6 cups
salt
to taste
chicken powder
optional, to taste
Instructions
1
Build the broth base
Bring water to a rolling boil in a large pot. Add ginger slices and red dates. Let this simmer on medium heat for 3 minutes—you'll see the water take on a pale golden hue as the ginger releases its warmth.
2
Cook the radish
Add the radish strips to the pot. Continue cooking on medium heat for about 3 minutes until the radish turns nearly translucent and feels tender when pierced with a fork.
3
Add the dried shrimp
Drain the soaked dried shrimp and add them to the soup. Turn heat down to low. The dried shrimp are naturally salty, so taste before adding any extra salt. Sprinkle in a touch of chicken powder if desired. Let everything gently bubble for 10 minutes to marry the flavors.
4
Finish and serve
Taste and adjust seasoning. Stir in the chopped green onions just before turning off the heat. Ladle into bowls and serve hot.
