Description
Pork Rib Vegetable Soup
A garlicky twist on a comforting pork rib soup with an extra kick of flavor. Perfect for garlic lovers!
Ingredients:
1 lb pork ribs (cut into pieces)
2 carrots (diced)
2 potatoes (cubed)
4 garlic cloves (sliced)
6 cups beef broth
1 tsp soy sauce
1/4 tsp chili flakes (optional)
Green onions for garnish
Instructions:
Boil pork ribs for 10 minutes, then rinse.
Add ribs, garlic, beef broth, and soy sauce to a pot. Simmer for 40 minutes.
Add carrots and potatoes. Cook until tender.
Garnish with green onions and chili flakes.
How much garlic is too much? Let us know your limit!
#GarlicSoupLove
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for the perfect bowl of soup.
- Prepare the Ribs: Place the pork rib pieces in a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat. Let boil for a full 10 minutes to release impurities. Drain the ribs into a colander and rinse thoroughly under cold water. This step ensures a clear, clean-tasting broth.
- Build the Broth Base: Return the cleaned ribs to the empty pot. Add the 6 cups of beef broth, sliced garlic cloves, 1 tsp of soy sauce, and the optional chili flakes. Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat, then immediately reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer gently for 40 minutes. This slow cooking infuses the broth with deep garlic and pork flavor.
- Add the Vegetables: After 40 minutes, add the diced carrots and cubed potatoes to the pot. Increase the heat slightly to return to a simmer. Cover again and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are fork-tender but not mushy.
- Final Touches: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt or a touch more soy sauce if needed. Ladle into bowls and garnish generously with sliced green onions and an extra pinch of chili flakes for color and heat.
Serving Suggestions
This robust soup is a meal in itself but can be elevated with simple sides. Serve it with a slice of crusty bread or a warm dinner roll for dipping. For a heartier meal, pair it with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the soup’s richness. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro can add a bright, herbal note alongside the green onions.
How-to Summary
Blanch and rinse pork ribs for a clean broth. Simmer ribs with garlic, broth, and soy sauce for 40 minutes. Add carrots and potatoes, cooking until tender. Garnish and serve hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken broth instead of beef broth?
Yes, chicken broth can be used and will yield a lighter, but still flavorful, soup. The beef broth provides a deeper, richer base that complements the pork.
How can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
After blanching the ribs, add all ingredients except the green onions to the slow cooker. Cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours. Add tender vegetables like peas in the last 30 minutes.
Is there a way to make the soup less greasy?
After simmering the ribs, you can skim any excess fat from the surface of the broth with a spoon before adding the vegetables. Chilling the soup and removing the solidified fat layer is another effective method.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely. Celery, corn, green beans, or peas are excellent additions. Add sturdier vegetables with the carrots and potatoes, and more delicate ones (like peas) in the last 5 minutes of cooking.
How should I store and reheat leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat. The potatoes may absorb some broth, so you may need to add a splash of water or broth when reheating.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the Rib Blanching: This crucial step removes impurities and prevents a cloudy, scummy broth. Do not rush or omit it.
- Overcooking the Vegetables: Adding the carrots and potatoes at the start will turn them to mush. Add them only in the final 20-25 minutes.
- Boiling Instead of Simmering: A hard boil will make the meat tough and cloud the broth. Maintain a gentle simmer after the initial boil.
- Underseasoning: The broth and soy sauce provide salt, but always taste at the end. The potatoes can mute flavors, so a final seasoning adjustment is key.
Conclusion
This Pork Rib Vegetable Soup is the ultimate comfort food with a powerful garlicky punch. It transforms simple, affordable ingredients into a deeply satisfying and nourishing meal. The process is straightforward but pays off with incredible flavor. Whether you’re a dedicated garlic lover or just seeking a hearty, warming dish, this soup is sure to become a favorite. Remember, when it comes to garlic in this recipe, more is often merrier! We’d love to hear how much you use.
