| Prep: 25 mins | Cook: 1 hour – 1.5 hours | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 283 | 17g | 5g | 10g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 3g | 2g | 23g | 1.05g |
When it comes to weaving together the intricate cuisines of both India and America, the Winter Melon and Pork Spare Ribs Soup holds a special place in my heart. This vegetable-based dish is an exquisite blend that embodies the crisp freshness of the West Coast with my Gujarati roots, resulting in a fusion dish that makes more than just your taste buds dance.
A Perfect Blend of Cultures
Growing up in an Indian-American household, I’ve always been fascinated by the magic that happens when cultures collide in the kitchen. This soup reminds me of the first few dishes I attempted to create, blending the flavors and techniques inherent to my heritage with the local Californian produce. It’s like taking a trip down memory lane, with the memorable aroma of pork, winter melon, and the subtle undertones of soy sauce and ginger wafting through the kitchen.
Health Wonders in a Bowl
Not only is this Winter Melon and Pork Spare Ribs Soup a deeply satisfying culinary journey, it also packs quite a punch on the health front. Winter melon, known for its cooling properties, aids in digestion and is rich in Vitamin C, giving your immune system a boost (source). Incorporating pork spare ribs provide the necessary protein and fat, which are crucial for building muscle and providing energy.
The warmth of garlic and ginger, commonly used in traditional Indian cooking to enhance taste, also bring their own health benefits. For instance, ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, reducing muscle pain and the symptoms of osteoarthritis (source). Garlic, on the other hand, is not just a flavor powerhouse but also has been linked to a decreased risk of heart disease (source).
Prepared with a pinch of white pepper and a sprinkle of scallions, the soup acquires a vibrant and complex flavor that doesn’t feel heavy.
Pairing Possibilities
If you’re wondering what to pair the soup with, it complements a wide range of dishes. In fact, the Winter Melon and Pork Spare Ribs Soup is somewhat similar to the traditional Chinese Winter Melon Soup, hence a range of Asian and Chinese inspired dishes like stir-fried vegetables or roast chicken would pair beautifully (source). Likewise, the soup pairs well with a portion of basmati rice or naan, bringing in a touch of Indian cuisine to your table. Enjoy!
What You’ll Need
- 1.5 lbs pork spare ribs
- 1 medium-sized winter melon (approximately 5 lbs)
- 4 cloves of garlic
- 1 inch piece of ginger
- 2 scallions
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp white pepper
- 8 cups of water
- 1 tbsp cooking oil
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 6 sprigs of fresh cilantro for garnish
Method
Step One
In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of cooking oil over medium heat. Add the ginger and garlic that you’ve minced and sauté until they are fragrant.
Step Two
Next, add the pork spare ribs to the pot and cook until they turn brown. This process should take about 5 to 7 minutes.
Step Three
Once the pork is browned, pour 8 cups of water into the pot and bring the solution to a boil over high heat. Then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 1 hour.
Step Four
During the last 15 minutes of simmering, add the winter melon that you have previously peeled and chopped into the pot. Mix well and continue to simmer.
Step Five
Season the soup with salt, white pepper, and soy sauce. Slice the scallions and add them to the pot, stirring well to combine all the ingredients.
Step Six
Finally, ladle the soup into bowls and garnish each bowl with fresh cilantro sprigs before serving. Enjoy your warm and hearty Winter Melon and Pork Spare Ribs Soup!
