Shanghai Rice Cake in Soup 上海湯年糕

Cozy Up with Shanghai Rice Cake Soup: A Taste of Authentic Shanghai

Looking for a comforting and flavorful soup that’s a little different? Look no further than Shanghai Rice Cake Soup! This isn’t your average soup; it’s a beloved Shanghai staple known for its chewy rice cakes, savory broth, and satisfying warmth. It’s a dish that’s both incredibly easy to make and deeply flavorful – perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.

This recipe brings the authentic taste of Shanghai to your kitchen. The key is the combination of rich chicken broth, fragrant Shaoxing wine, and the unique chewiness of the rice cakes. Salty pork adds a wonderful depth of umami, while the cabbage provides a touch of freshness. Don’t be intimidated by ingredients you might not be familiar with – they’re readily available at most Asian grocery stores, and the result is so worth it!

What makes this Shanghai Rice Cake Soup special?

• Texture: The chewy rice cakes are the star of the show, offering a delightful contrast to the soft cabbage and tender pork.
• Flavor: The combination of chicken broth, Shaoxing wine, and abalone sauce creates a complex and savory flavor profile.
• Comfort: This soup is incredibly warming and satisfying, perfect for a cold day.
• Easy to make: Despite its authentic flavor, this recipe is surprisingly simple to prepare.

Tips for the Best Shanghai Rice Cake Soup:

• Rice Cakes: Use fresh or dried rice cakes. If using dried, soak them in water for about 30 minutes before adding them to the soup.
• Shaoxing Wine: This Chinese rice wine adds a unique flavor to the soup. If you can’t find it, you can substitute with dry sherry, but the flavor won’t be quite the same.
• Abalone Sauce: This adds a lovely umami flavor. A little goes a long way!
• Salted Pork: This is a key ingredient for authentic flavor. You can find it pre-made at most Asian grocery stores.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: Where can I find the ingredients for this soup?
A: Most of the ingredients can be found at Asian grocery stores. Chicken broth, cabbage, and salt are readily available at most supermarkets.

Q: Can I use a different type of rice cake?
A: While you can experiment with different types, the traditional Shanghai rice cakes are the best for this soup. They have a specific texture and chewiness that really makes the dish.

Q: Can I make this soup vegetarian?
A: Yes! Substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the salted pork. You may want to add a little extra abalone sauce or a dash of soy sauce to compensate for the umami flavor.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
A: Absolutely! Spinach, mushrooms, or carrots would all be delicious additions.

Q: How long does this soup take to make?
A: This soup is quick and easy to make! It takes about 30 minutes from start to finish.

Enjoy this comforting and flavorful Shanghai Rice Cake Soup – a taste of authentic Shanghai in your own kitchen!