Sichuan Spicy Cabbage Soup

Ingredients

In this adaptation, we replace the traditional Turkish spices with Sichuan peppercorns, chili oil, and fermented bean paste to infuse the soup with the distinct flavors of Sichuan cuisine. The original Lahana çorbası is typically milder in taste and lacks the numbing and spicy elements that define Sichuan cuisine. We alse have the original recipe for Lahana çorbası, so you can check it out.

• 1 medium cabbage, shredded (500g) 1 medium cabbage, shredded (500g)
• 4 cups (950ml) vegetable broth 4 cups (950ml) vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons Sichuan peppercorns 2 tablespoons Sichuan peppercorns
• 2 tablespoons chili oil 2 tablespoons chili oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece ginger, grated 1-inch piece ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons fermented bean paste 2 tablespoons fermented bean paste
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sugar 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt to taste Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 120 kcal / 502 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 6g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 14g, 6g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 5g
• Salt: 2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large pot, heat the chili oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and Sichuan peppercorns. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
2. 2.
   Add the shredded cabbage to the pot and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until slightly wilted.
3. 3.
   In a small bowl, mix the fermented bean paste, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. Pour the mixture into the pot and stir well to coat the cabbage.
4. 4.
   Pour the vegetable broth into the pot and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the cabbage is tender.
5. 5.
   Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Cabbage — Make sure to shred the cabbage into thin strips for a better texture in the soup.
• Sichuan peppercorns — Toast the peppercorns in a dry pan before using to enhance their aroma and flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra spicy kick, add a few dried red chili peppers to the soup.
• Adjust the amount of Sichuan peppercorns according to your spice tolerance.
• Serve the soup with steamed rice or noodles for a more substantial meal.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated and enjoyed the next day, as the flavors develop further.

Serving advice

Serve the Sichuan Spicy Cabbage Soup hot in individual bowls. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a pop of color and added freshness. Accompany the soup with steamed rice or crusty bread to complete the meal.

Presentation advice

Present the Sichuan Spicy Cabbage Soup in vibrant red bowls to highlight its fiery nature. Sprinkle some additional Sichuan peppercorns on top for an attractive garnish. Serve with chopsticks and a soup spoon for an authentic Sichuan dining experience.