Basic Chinese Chicken Soup Stock (Soup Base)

Soup Name: Papaya and Apples in Pork Broth

Traditional Chinese Name: 木瓜蘋果湯 (mù gua píng guǒ tāng)

Introduction:

This neutral and naturally sweet soup is ideal for children.  In this version, I’ve created it to help relieve cough with the addition of apricot kernals.  It’s easy to make and relatively non-oily because of the pork shank.  An excellent source of Vitamin C.

1 pound of fresh pork shank
1 large unripe papaya (ripe is also suitable)
4 medium-sized fuji apples
20-30 apricot kernals
2-3 L of water
1 teaspoon of salt (to marinate the pork)

How do I prepare it?

Pre-marinate the pork overnight with the salt (although this step is not necessary)
Blanch pork bones in a separate pot of boiling water
Boil your soup water
Rinse apricot kernals in warm water
Peel, wash and chop your papaya and apples (although I leave the skin on for the apples)
Once water is boiling, add all the ingredients together
1. Boil on high for 30 minutes.   Reduce to simmering for 2 hours (or use internal pot).
2. Serve and enjoy!

Any benefits?

• Neutral soup that is ideal for children and toddlers
• An excellent source of Vitamins A, C and beta-carotene
• Very hearty if eating the soup contents
• Helps relieve cough due to the addition of apricot kernals
• Low in fat

Any precautions?

• None – enjoy!