Authentic Winter Melon Pork Rib Soup (Dong Gua Pai Gu Tang)
A comforting, hydrating summer soup featuring tender pork ribs, savory salted pork, and melt-in-your-mouth winter melon. Authentic, simple, and naturally healthy.
Equipment
- Large Soup Pot or Micro-Pressure Cooker
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 800 g winter melon peeled, seeded, and cut into 1.5-inch chunks
- 400 g pork ribs chopped into small pieces
- 60 g salted pork or Chinese dry-cured ham sliced
Aromatics & Seasonings
- 6 slices ginger peeled if preferred
- 2 knots scallions plus extra chopped for garnish
- 2 tbsp Shaoxing wine divided
- 4 g salt approx 3/4 tsp, adjust to taste
Instructions
- Place pork ribs in a pot of cold water. Add 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine, 2 slices of ginger, and 1 scallion knot. Bring to a boil, skim the foam, boil for 2 minutes, then remove and rinse ribs with hot water.
- In a clean pot, add blanched ribs, remaining ginger, 1 scallion knot, salted pork, 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine, and enough water to submerge. Simmer covered for 40 minutes.
- Remove the aromatics. Add winter melon chunks and simmer for 10-15 minutes until semi-transparent and tender.
- Stir in salt to taste. Turn off heat, garnish with chopped scallions, and serve hot.
Notes
Safety Reminder: Ensure pork reaches a minimum safe internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) followed by a 3-minute rest, though simmering will naturally bring the ribs well above this to ensure tenderness.
Nutrition (Estimate): Calories: 210kcal | Carbohydrates: 7g | Protein: 18g | Fat: 12g | Sodium: 650mg | Potassium: 380mg | Fiber: 2g