radish and carp soup recipe

How to Make Classic Radish and Carp Soup

Radish and carp soup is a nourishing Chinese dish loved for its sweet, umami-rich broth and tender ingredients. Here’s a simple yet delicious recipe to make it at home.

Ingredients:

1 fresh carp (about 500g), 1 white radish (500g), 3 slices of ginger, 2 scallions, 1 tbsp cooking wine, salt, white pepper, and a pinch of sugar.

Steps:

1. Prep the ingredients: Clean the carp, remove内脏 (internal organs), and score both sides to help the flavor infuse. Peel and cut the radish into 2cm-thick chunks. Slice ginger and chop scallions.

2. Sear the carp: Heat oil in a pot over medium heat. Add the carp and pan-fry until both sides turn golden (about 3 minutes). Pour in cooking wine to reduce the fishy smell.

3. Simmer the soup: Add ginger, radish, and 4 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then simmer on low heat for 30–40 minutes until the radish is soft and the broth turns milky.

4. Season and serve: Add salt, white pepper, and a pinch of sugar to balance the flavors. Garnish with chopped scallions before serving.

Tips: For a richer broth, use carp head and bones to cook the soup first, then add the fish fillet later. This dish is perfect for cold days, warming the body and aiding digestion. Enjoy this comforting soup with steamed rice!