old duck soup

How to Make Old Duck Soup: A Comprehensive Guide

Old duck soup, a nourishing delicacy in Chinese cuisine, is cherished for its rich umami and health benefits. Here’s a step-by-step guide to crafting this comforting dish.

Ingredients: A 3-year-old duck (for depth of flavor), 20g dried goji berries, 15g Chinese yam, 10g dried red dates, 5 slices of ginger, 1 scallion, salt, and a pinch of white pepper. Optional: 10g wolfberries for extra sweetness.

Steps:

1. Prepare the Duck: Rinse the duck thoroughly. Pat dry and rub with ginger and scallion to remove any gamey smell. Blanch in boiling water for 5 minutes, then drain and rinse again.

2. Simmer the Broth: Place the duck in a pot, add 2L of water, ginger, and scallion. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 2–3 hours until the meat is tender. Skim off foam occasionally.

3. Add Vegetables: In the last 30 minutes, add Chinese yam, red dates, and goji berries. Simmer gently to let the flavors meld.

4. Season and Serve: Season with salt and white pepper. Discard ginger and scallion. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh wolfberries if desired.

Tips: For a richer broth, simmer the duck longer on low heat. Avoid over-salting, as the duck and dried ingredients naturally enhance the taste. This soup warms the body, boosts immunity, and is perfect for cold days. Enjoy this wholesome dish with family!