The whole practice of carp radish soup

How to Make Classic Carp and Radish Soup

Carp and radish soup, a nourishing Chinese comfort food, is cherished for its umami-rich broth and tender ingredients. Here’s a simple yet delicious recipe to recreate it at home.

Ingredients: 1 fresh carp (cleaned and sliced), 1 white radish (peeled and cut into chunks), 3 slices of ginger, 2 scallions (sliced), 1 tbsp cooking wine, salt, white pepper, and a pinch of sugar.

Steps:

1. Prep the carp: Rinse the carp slices, pat dry, and marinate with 1 tsp cooking wine and ginger for 10 minutes to remove any fishy odor.

2. Sauté aromatics: Heat 2 tbsp oil in a pot over medium heat. Add ginger and scallions, stir-fry until fragrant.

3. Simmer the soup: Add radish chunks and stir-fry for 2 minutes. Pour in 4 cups of water, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a gentle simmer for 15 minutes until the radish softens.

4. Cook the carp: Gently add the carp slices, ensuring they are submerged. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until the fish turns opaque.

5. Season: Add salt, white pepper, and a pinch of sugar to balance flavors. Garnish with extra scallions before serving.

Tips: For a clearer broth, blanch the carp slices in boiling water for 30 seconds before adding to the soup. Using a sweet radish variety enhances the natural sweetness. This soup is best enjoyed hot, warming both body and soul.