winter melon shrimp skin soup

How to Make Winter Melon and Dried Shrimp Soup: A Simple Guide

Winter melon and dried shrimp soup is a light, nourishing dish loved for its refreshing taste and health benefits. Here’s a simple yet versatile method to prepare it.

Ingredients:

- 500g winter melon (peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes)

- 20g dried shrimp (rinsed and soaked in warm water for 10 minutes)

- 2 cloves garlic (minced)

- 4 cups water or broth

- Salt to taste

- Optional: 1 egg (beaten, for a thicker soup) or cilantro (for garnish)

Steps:

1. Prep the Ingredients: Soak dried shrimp to soften them, then mince. Peel and dice winter melon, removing seeds.

2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat a pot over medium flame, add a little oil, and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.

3. Simmer the Soup: Pour in water or broth, bring to a boil, then add dried shrimp and winter melon. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 15–20 minutes until the melon turns translucent.

4. Season and Serve: Add salt to taste. For a richer texture, drizzle in beaten egg while stirring gently. Garnish with cilantro if desired.

Tips: For extra flavor, add a pinch of white pepper or a few slices of ginger. This soup is low-calorie and hydrating, perfect for year-round enjoyment. Enjoy it as a starter or a light meal!