Tianjin-style Pistou Soup

Ingredients

In the Tianjin-style Pistou Soup, the traditional French pistou is replaced with a Tianjin-style chili oil, which adds a spicy kick to the dish. Additionally, Tianjin preserved vegetables are added to the soup, giving it a tangy and slightly sour flavor. These adaptations infuse the soup with the distinct flavors of Tianjin cuisine while still maintaining the essence of the original Pistou recipe. We alse have the original recipe for Pistou, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (470ml) vegetable broth 2 cups (470ml) vegetable broth
• 1 cup (240ml) water 1 cup (240ml) water
• 1 tablespoon Tianjin chili oil 1 tablespoon Tianjin chili oil
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sugar 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 tomato, diced 1 tomato, diced
• 1 zucchini, diced 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/4 cup Tianjin preserved vegetables, finely chopped 1/4 cup Tianjin preserved vegetables, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 120 kcal / 502 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 4g, 0.5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 18g, 8g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large pot, combine the vegetable broth, water, Tianjin chili oil, soy sauce, and sugar. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
2. 2.
   Add the diced tomato, zucchini, green beans, Tianjin preserved vegetables, and minced garlic to the pot. Stir well to combine.
3. 3.
   Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
4. 4.
   Stir in the torn basil leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. 5.
   Remove from heat and let the soup sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. 6.
   Serve the Tianjin-style Pistou Soup hot and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Tianjin preserved vegetables — Rinse the preserved vegetables thoroughly before chopping to remove excess saltiness.
• Tianjin chili oil — Adjust the amount of chili oil according to your spice preference. Add more for a spicier soup or reduce for a milder flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For a heartier version, add cooked noodles or rice to the soup.
• Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of Tianjin chili oil for an extra burst of flavor.
• Adjust the spiciness by adding more or less Tianjin chili oil.
• Serve with crusty bread on the side for a complete meal.
• Make a larger batch and freeze the leftovers for a quick and delicious meal later.

Serving advice

Serve the Tianjin-style Pistou Soup in individual bowls, garnished with fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of Tianjin chili oil. Accompany it with a side of crusty bread for a satisfying meal.

Presentation advice

Present the Tianjin-style Pistou Soup in a rustic bowl, allowing the vibrant colors of the vegetables to shine through. Drizzle a swirl of Tianjin chili oil on top and sprinkle some torn basil leaves for an elegant touch.