Shanghai-style Seafood Soup

Ingredients

While the original Japanese Sumashijiru is known for its simplicity and emphasis on the natural flavors of the ingredients, the Shanghai-style Seafood Soup incorporates the bold and aromatic spices commonly found in Shanghai cuisine. The addition of ginger, garlic, and star anise gives the soup a distinct flavor profile, setting it apart from the original dish. We alse have the original recipe for Sumashijiru, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) mixed seafood (shrimp, fish fillets, squid) 500g (1.1 lb) mixed seafood (shrimp, fish fillets, squid)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 thumb-sized ginger, sliced 1 thumb-sized ginger, sliced
• 2 green onions, chopped 2 green onions, chopped
• 2 cups (470ml) chicken stock 2 cups (470ml) chicken stock
• 2 cups (470ml) water 2 cups (470ml) water
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 star anise 1 star anise
• 1 teaspoon sugar 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 4g, 0.5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 8g, 2g
• Protein: 25g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, sliced ginger, and chopped green onions. Sauté for 2 minutes until fragrant.
2. 2.
   Add the mixed seafood to the pot and cook for 3-4 minutes until they start to turn opaque.
3. 3.
   Pour in the chicken stock and water. Stir in the soy sauce, rice vinegar, star anise, sugar, salt, and pepper.
4. 4.
   Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. 5.
   Remove the star anise from the soup and discard.
6. 6.
   Serve the Shanghai-style Seafood Soup hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Seafood — Ensure the seafood is fresh and properly cleaned before adding it to the soup.
• Ginger — Use fresh ginger for the best flavor. Peel the ginger before slicing.
• Star anise — If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of star anise used.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of chili oil.
• Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences. Add more soy sauce for saltiness or rice vinegar for tanginess.
• Serve the soup with steamed rice or crusty bread for a more substantial meal.
• Experiment with different types of seafood, such as scallops or mussels, to add variety to the soup.
• Make a larger batch of the soup and freeze it in individual portions for quick and convenient meals.

Serving advice

Serve the Shanghai-style Seafood Soup as an appetizer or a light meal. Accompany it with steamed rice or crusty bread for a satisfying dining experience.

Presentation advice

Garnish the soup with a sprig of fresh cilantro to add a pop of color. Serve it in individual bowls or small soup cups to showcase its vibrant appearance.