Dong Gua Tang
This light, clear soup highlights the delicate sweetness of winter melon, enriched with the savory depth of dried shrimp and fragrant ginger. The broth is clean-tasting and comforting, with soft translucent melon pieces and a fresh finish from scallion.
Ingredients
Soup base
- 500 gwinter melon, peeled and seeded
- 700 mlchicken broth, low-sodium
- 20 gdried shrimp
- 15 gfresh ginger, thinly sliced
- 5 mllight soy sauce
- 0.5 gwhite pepper
Finish and garnish
- 15 gscallion, finely sliced
- 2 mlsesame oil
- 1 gsalt
Instructions
- 1
Rinse the dried shrimp briefly under cold water, then soak them in 100 ml hot water for 10 minutes to soften. Meanwhile, peel the winter melon, remove the seeds and spongy center, and cut the flesh into 2 cm bite-size chunks. Slice the ginger and scallion.
- 2
Pour the chicken broth into a small pot and add the soaked dried shrimp with their soaking liquid, leaving behind any gritty sediment in the bowl. Add the ginger and bring to a gentle boil over medium heat.
- 3
Add the winter melon and return the soup to a simmer. Cook for 10-12 minutes, uncovered, until the melon turns slightly translucent and is tender but still holds its shape. Skim off any foam if needed for a clearer broth.
- 4
Season the soup with light soy sauce, white pepper, and salt. Taste the broth before adding all the salt, since the dried shrimp and soy sauce already contribute salinity.
- 5
Turn off the heat and drizzle in the sesame oil for aroma. Scatter over the scallion and serve immediately while hot.
Nutrition per serving
Notes
- •For the clearest soup, keep the heat at a gentle simmer rather than a rolling boil.
- •If your winter melon is very young and tender, reduce the simmering time by 2-3 minutes.
- •A few drops of sesame oil are enough; too much will overpower the delicate flavor and increase the fat content.
- •Serve with steamed rice and a simple stir-fried green vegetable for a light meal.
Background
Dong Gua Tang, or winter melon soup, is a classic home-style dish found across many parts of China, especially in Cantonese cooking where clear, gently flavored soups are highly valued. Winter melon is prized for its mild taste and refreshing quality, making it a common ingredient in everyday soups during warm weather and family meals.
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