soybean pork knuckle soup

How to Make Soy-Braised Pork Knuckle Soup: A Complete Guide

Soy-braised pork knuckle soup is a beloved comfort dish, celebrated for its tender meat, rich broth, and nourishing ingredients. Here’s a step-by-step guide to crafting this flavorful classic.

Ingredients: 1 kg pork knuckle (blanched), 100 g dried soybeans (soaked overnight), 5 ginger slices, 3 scallions (tied), 1 star anise, 2 dried shiitake mushrooms, 2 tbsp light soy sauce, 1 tbsp dark soy sauce, 1 tsp sugar, salt to taste, and 6 cups water.

Steps:

1. Prep the Pork: Blanch the pork knuckle in boiling water for 5 minutes to remove impurities, then rinse clean.

2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat oil in a pot, stir-fry ginger and scallions until fragrant, then add the pork knuckle and sear lightly.

3. Simmer Together: Transfer pork to a clay pot, add soaked soybeans, star anise, shiitake mushrooms, and water. Bring to a boil, then simmer on low heat for 1.5 hours.

4. Season and Finish: Stir in light/dark soy sauce and sugar. Simmer for another 30 minutes until the pork is fork-tender. Adjust salt before serving.

Tips: For a richer broth, simmer longer on low heat; add carrots or radishes for extra sweetness. Enjoy this hearty soup with rice for a comforting meal!