Puerto Rican Chinese Almond Onion Soup

Ingredients

In the original Spanish Cebollada con almendras, the soup is typically made with beef broth and flavored with Spanish spices. However, in this Puerto Rican Chinese adaptation, the beef broth is replaced with a combination of chicken broth and soy sauce to infuse it with Chinese flavors. Additionally, the soup incorporates Chinese spices and herbs, such as ginger and star anise, to enhance the fusion of cuisines. We alse have the original recipe for Cebollada con almendras, so you can check it out.

• 2 tablespoons (30ml) vegetable oil 2 tablespoons (30ml) vegetable oil
• 2 large onions, thinly sliced 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon (5g) ground ginger 1 teaspoon (5g) ground ginger
• 1 star anise 1 star anise
• 4 cups (950ml) chicken broth 4 cups (950ml) chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) soy sauce 2 tablespoons (30ml) soy sauce
• 1 cup (120g) toasted almonds, chopped 1 cup (120g) toasted almonds, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 18g, 6g
• Protein: 8g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally.
2. 2.
   Add the minced garlic, ground ginger, and star anise to the pot. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. 3.
   Pour in the chicken broth and soy sauce. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. 4.
   Remove the star anise from the pot and discard.
5. 5.
   Using an immersion blender or a regular blender, puree the soup until smooth.
6. 6.
   Return the soup to the pot and stir in the chopped toasted almonds. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. 7.
   Simmer the soup for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
8. 8.
   Serve the Puerto Rican Chinese Almond Onion Soup hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Almonds — Make sure to toast the almonds before chopping them. This will enhance their flavor and add a delightful crunch to the soup.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few drops of hot sauce to the soup.
• If you prefer a chunkier texture, reserve some of the caramelized onions and toasted almonds to sprinkle on top of the soup before serving.
• Experiment with different garnishes such as sliced green onions or a drizzle of sesame oil for added flavor.

Serving advice

Serve the Puerto Rican Chinese Almond Onion Soup as a starter or a light meal. Accompany it with crusty bread or steamed rice for a more substantial dish.

Presentation advice

Garnish the soup with a sprig of fresh cilantro to add a pop of color and freshness. Serve it in individual bowls or small soup cups for an elegant presentation.