Imagine a steaming bowl of rich, aromatic soup that transports you straight to the heart of traditional Chinese cuisine. This Beef and Lotus Root Soup is not just a meal; it's a culinary journey that combines tender beef, delicate lotus root, and a broth so flavorful it will make your taste buds dance with joy. Perfect for cold days or when you're craving a nourishing, home-cooked meal that feels like a warm embrace from your favorite grandmother.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs 30 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 45 mins
Cuisine: Chinese
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb beef shank, cut into pieces
- 1 lotus root, sliced
- 4 cups water
- 2 slices ginger
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all the ingredients. Cut the beef shank into bite-sized pieces, ensuring they are uniform for even cooking. Rinse the lotus root under cold water and slice it into thin rounds, about 1/4 inch thick. Set aside.
- In a large pot, add the 4 cups of water and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, add the beef shank pieces to the pot.
- Add the 2 slices of ginger to the pot with the beef. Ginger will add a fragrant aroma and help to tenderize the meat as it cooks.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the pot. Allow the beef to simmer for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This will help to develop a rich flavor in the broth.
- After 1 hour, add the sliced lotus root to the pot. Stir gently to combine with the beef and broth.
- Continue to simmer the soup for an additional 30 minutes, uncovered. This will allow the lotus root to cook through while still retaining some of its crunch.
- During the last few minutes of cooking, add salt to taste. Start with a small amount, and adjust according to your preference.
- Once the soup is ready, remove it from the heat. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with the chopped green onions for a fresh flavor and added color.
- Serve the Beef and Lotus Root Soup hot, enjoying it as a comforting dish that pairs well with steamed rice or noodles.
Tips
- Choose the Right Cut: Use beef shank for the most tender and flavorful results. The marbling and connective tissues break down during slow cooking, creating a rich, gelatinous broth.
- Lotus Root Preparation: When slicing lotus root, do so just before cooking to prevent discoloration. Soak the slices in water with a splash of vinegar to keep them white and crisp.
- Ginger is Key: Fresh ginger slices are crucial for adding depth and helping to tenderize the meat. Don't skip this ingredient!
- Slow and Steady Wins: The long, slow simmering is what makes this soup extraordinary. Resist the urge to rush the cooking process.
- Seasoning Tip: Start with a small amount of salt and adjust gradually. The beef and ginger will already provide significant flavor.
- Serving Suggestion: For an extra touch of authenticity, serve with a side of steamed white rice or add some rice noodles directly to the soup.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 65mg
