Radish and Scallop Soup

🥣 Chinese Radish and Scallop Soup 

Radish and Scallop Soup is a light, nourishing dish from Chinese home cooking. The sweetness of fresh or dried scallops blends beautifully with the mild flavor of radish, making the soup both refreshing and umami-rich. It is often enjoyed in the winter months for its warming qualities and is believed to support digestion and overall health.

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🛒 Ingredients

• White radish (daikon): 500 g

• Fresh scallops (or dried scallops, soaked in warm water): 200 g

• Ginger slices: 3–4

• Scallions: 2 stalks (cut into sections)

• Cooking wine: 1 tbsp

• Salt: to taste

• White pepper: to taste

• Water or light chicken stock: 6 cups

Optional garnish:

• Chopped cilantro or scallions

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1. Prepare Ingredients

1. Peel the radish and cut it into thick slices or chunks.

2. If using dried scallops, soak them in warm water for 20–30 minutes until softened, then shred lightly. If using fresh scallops, rinse and pat them dry.

3. Slice ginger and cut scallions into sections.

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Step 2. Blanch Scallops (Optional, for cleaner flavor)

1. Bring a small pot of water to a boil, add the scallops with 1 tbsp cooking wine, and blanch for 1–2 minutes.

2. Remove and set aside.

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Step 3. Cook the Soup

1. In a large pot, add 6 cups of water or light chicken stock.

2. Add ginger slices and scallion sections, then bring to a boil.

3. Add radish pieces and let them simmer over medium heat for 15 minutes until slightly softened.

4. Add scallops and continue simmering for another 10–15 minutes until the radish is tender and the soup is fragrant.

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Step 4. Season and Serve

1. Add salt and white pepper to taste.

2. Remove scallion sections before serving.

3. Garnish with chopped cilantro or scallions if desired.

4. Serve hot as a light and nourishing soup.

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🌟 Tips

• Radish choice: White radish (daikon) is commonly used, but green radish can also give a slightly sweeter taste.

• Soup base: Use chicken stock instead of plain water for a richer flavor.

• Dried scallops: If using dried scallops, the soaking liquid can be added to the soup for extra umami.

• This dish pairs well with rice or other home-style Chinese meals.