Dried Shrimp and Radish Soup
A light, clear broth soup featuring tender shredded radish and umami-rich dried shrimp. This simple home-style Chinese soup comes together quickly with minimal ingredients, delivering a comforting warmth and delicate seafood flavor in every spoonful.
Story
This humble radish and dried shrimp soup is a staple in Chinese home cooking, valued for its simplicity and nourishing qualities. The natural sweetness of the radish pairs beautifully with the briny depth of dried shrimp, while fresh garlic stirred in at the end adds a bright finishing note. It's the kind of soup that feels both wholesome and satisfying.
Ingredients
radish
1 medium, shredded
dried shrimp (hai ma)
a handful, rinsed
scallion
2 stalks, sliced
garlic
3 cloves, minced (divided use)
cooking oil
1 tablespoon
salt
to taste
water
4–5 cups
Instructions
1
Prepare the ingredients
Peel and shred the radish into thin strips. Rinse the dried shrimp briefly under running water. Slice the scallion and mince the garlic, setting a portion of the garlic aside for finishing.
2
Stir-fry the aromatics and radish
Heat oil in a pot over medium heat. Add the sliced scallion and stir-fry until fragrant. Add the shredded radish and toss to coat in the oil for about 1–2 minutes.
3
Simmer the soup
Pour in the water and bring to a gentle boil. Add the rinsed dried shrimp and season with salt. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 10–12 minutes, or until the radish is tender and the broth has developed flavor.
4
Finish and serve
Stir in the reserved minced garlic. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Remove from heat and serve hot in bowls.
