Ah, ABC soup—a classic Cantonese-style Chinese soup (often called “Alphabet Soup” in English) that’s light, clear, and nourishing. Despite the name, it doesn’t have alphabet pasta—it’s called “ABC” because it usually includes A = apple, B = beef, C = carrot—simple, healthy ingredients. It’s often made as a home-style Chinese comfort soup.
Here’s a traditional recipe:
Ingredients (serves 4–6)
- 1/2 lb (225 g) beef (shank, brisket, or stew meat), cut into chunks
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1 medium apple, peeled, cored, and cut into chunks (Fuji or Gala are good)
- 1 medium tomato, cut into wedges
- 1 small daikon radish or potato (optional), cut into chunks
- 4–5 cups water
- 2–3 slices ginger
- 1–2 cloves garlic (optional)
- Salt to taste
- Optional: 1–2 green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Blanch the beef:
- Bring a pot of water to boil. Add beef and boil for 2–3 minutes to remove impurities.
- Drain and rinse the beef.
- Make the soup base:
- In a clean pot, add beef, water, ginger, and garlic. Bring to a boil, then reduce to simmer for 30–40 minutes.
- Add vegetables and fruit:
- Add carrots, apple, tomato, and daikon/potato if using.
- Simmer another 15–20 minutes until everything is tender.
- Season and serve:
- Add salt to taste.
- Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
- Serve hot.
Tips:
- The apple adds a natural sweetness that balances the beef and carrots.
- You can add corn or winter melon for extra flavor and nutrition.
- ABC soup is light and clear—perfect as a starter or side dish.
If you want, I can also give a quick 30-minute version that uses beef broth instead of long simmering, so you get the flavor fast.
Do you want the quick version?
