Hong Kong-style Bread Soup

Ingredients

In the Hong Kong adaptation of Minestra di pane, the traditional Italian bread soup, there are a few notable differences. Hong Kong-style Bread Soup incorporates local ingredients and flavors to create a unique twist. The broth is often enhanced with aromatic Chinese herbs and spices, such as star anise and ginger, giving it a distinct flavor profile. Additionally, Hong Kong-style Bread Soup may include ingredients commonly found in Cantonese cuisine, such as dried seafood or Chinese mushrooms, to add depth and umami to the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Minestra di pane, so you can check it out.

• 4 cups (950ml) chicken or vegetable broth 4 cups (950ml) chicken or vegetable broth
• 4 slices of crusty bread, cut into cubes 4 slices of crusty bread, cut into cubes
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 carrot, diced 1 carrot, diced
• 1 celery stalk, diced 1 celery stalk, diced
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 2 star anise 2 star anise
• 1 bay leaf 1 bay leaf
• 1 cup (240ml) diced chicken or pork (optional) 1 cup (240ml) diced chicken or pork (optional)
• 1 cup (240ml) sliced Chinese mushrooms (optional) 1 cup (240ml) sliced Chinese mushrooms (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs (such as cilantro or green onions) for garnish Fresh herbs (such as cilantro or green onions) for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 6g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 35g, 5g
• Protein: 15g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrot, celery, and grated ginger. Sauté until the vegetables are softened.
2. 2.
   If using meat, add the diced chicken or pork to the pot and cook until browned.
3. 3.
   Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
4. 4.
   Add the star anise, bay leaf, and Chinese mushrooms (if using). Simmer for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. 5.
   Add the bread cubes to the pot and stir gently to combine. Allow the bread to soak in the broth for 5-10 minutes until softened.
6. 6.
   Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. 7.
   Remove the star anise and bay leaf from the soup.
8. 8.
   Ladle the Hong Kong-style Bread Soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Chinese mushrooms — Soak the dried mushrooms in hot water for 20 minutes before slicing and adding them to the soup. This will ensure they are rehydrated and tender.

Tips & Tricks

• For a more intense flavor, you can toast the bread cubes in the oven before adding them to the soup.
• Feel free to customize the soup by adding other vegetables or proteins of your choice.
• If you prefer a smoother consistency, you can blend a portion of the soup before adding the bread cubes.

Serving advice

Serve the Hong Kong-style Bread Soup hot as a main course. It pairs well with a side of steamed rice or a crusty baguette.

Presentation advice

Garnish each bowl of soup with a sprig of fresh herbs, such as cilantro or green onions, to add a pop of color and freshness.