Unraveling the Mysteries of ABC Soup: A Delightful ABC Soup Recipe and Its Origins
The world of soup is diverse and expansive, but have you ever wondered about the simplicity and versatility of the classic ABC soup? In this article, we’ll delve into the answers to some common questions about this humble dish.
Firstly, a question often asked is: “Why is my ABC soup bland?” The answer lies in the choice of ingredients and seasonings. The primary ingredients of ABC soup are usually pork ribs and chicken, both of which are flavourful proteins. However, if your soup tastes bland, it might be because you need to adjust the amount of salt, pepper, or other seasonings. It’s also possible that the soup hasn’t been simmered for long enough. A longer cooking time allows the flavours of the ingredients to meld together, creating a richer, more robust taste.
Another common question about ABC soup is, “How long can I keep it in the fridge?” The answer is typically three to four days if stored properly in a covered container. This timeframe ensures that the soup remains fresh and safe to consume. Remember to reheat the soup thoroughly before eating.
So, what does “ABC” in ABC soup stand for? It’s believed that ABC refers to vitamins – specifically Vitamin A from the carrots, Vitamin B from the meat, and Vitamin C from the potatoes and tomatoes used in the soup. This simple soup is packed with essential nutrients, making it a popular choice for a healthy, comforting meal.
The origins of the ABC soup recipe, however, might be a bit less familiar. Who invented it, and where does it come from? While it’s challenging to pinpoint the exact person who came up with this recipe, ABC soup is often associated with Chinese-Malaysian cuisine. It’s a staple in many households, loved for its simplicity and nourishing properties.
ABC Soup Recipe Ingredients:
- 1 tomato
- 1 potato
- 1 yellow onion
- 1 carrot
- 2 chicken drumsticks
- 1/2 corn (maize)
- 2 1/2 liters of water
- Salt
- Pepper
ABC Soup Recipe Instructions:
- Score the skin of the tomato and potato. Put them into a pot of boiling water. After one minute, transfer them to a bowl of cold water. This will “shock” them, making it easier to remove the skin. Alternatively, you can use a spoon to peel the skin off.
- Cut the tomato, potato, yellow onion, carrot, and chicken drumsticks into chunks or slices, according to your preference. You can optionally remove the skin from the drumsticks.
- In a large pot, combine all the ingredients: tomato, potato, yellow onion, carrot, chicken drumsticks, and corn. Add 2 1/2 liters of water.
- Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let the soup simmer for 2-3 hours, or a minimum of 1.5 hours. This slow simmering allows the vegetables to release their nutrients and flavors. Stir occasionally and skim off any foam that forms on the surface.
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference.
- Once the soup is ready, remove the chicken drumsticks from the pot. You can shred the meat and add it back to the soup if desired.
- Serve the ABC soup hot as a side dish with rice or enjoy it on its own.
ABC Soup Recipe Optional variations:
- Vegetarian ABC Soup: Omit the chicken drumsticks and add more onions for sweetness. You can also include maize or beetroot to enhance the flavor. Adding a celery stalk can make a difference too.
- Slow Cooker Method: Instead of simmering on the stovetop, you can use a slow cooker. Cook the soup on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours. This allows the vegetables to slowly release their nutrients.
- Pressure Cooker Method: If your pressure cooker has a “soup” function, use it and cook the soup for about 50 minutes. Otherwise, cook the soup for 25 minutes over high heat. Release the pressure and let it cook for another 20 minutes before turning off the heat.
- Overnight ABC Soup: If you have leftovers, you can keep the ABC soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last up to 3 days before the vegetables start to deteriorate. To reheat, bring the soup to a boil in a pot and simmer over medium heat for at least 20 minutes. You may need to add a few spoonfuls of water before boiling, as the soup tends to reduce while heating.
Note: It’s advisable to avoid serving ABC soup to babies until they are at least 10-12 months old, as the acidity from tomatoes may be harmful to their stomachs. If preparing for babies, blend the vegetables into a smooth puree and remove any traces of bones before serving.
Enjoy this nourishing and delicious ABC Soup, rich in vitamins and nutrients!
Be sure to check out this Healthy Chickpea Soup: A Fast, Easy, and Delicious Recipe
