ABC Soup
As simple to prepare as its name implies, ABC soup is delicious and heartwarming, the ultimate comfort food.
Equipment
- Soup pot, frying pan
Ingredients
- 5-6 cups water (start with 5, you can gradually add later if necessary)
- 1 handful dried anchovies (ikan bilis), gutted and beheaded
- 1 piece dried cuttlefish (Optional)
- 1 bone-in chicken drumstick and thigh
- 2 small carrots, cut into wedges
- 1 medium-sized potato, cut into wedges
- 1 ripe tomato, cut into wedges
- 1/2 big yellow onion, sliced into wedges
- 2 pickled mustard leaves (or any pickled vegetables) + 1 tbsp of the pickled mustard juice (Optional)
- Salt to taste and cracked white peppercorns
- Oil
Instructions
- Heat up a bit of oil and fry cuttlefish until it starts to be aromatic. Remove from heat. (See Recipe note 1)
- Make the stock. Start by filling a soup pot with water, anchovies and cuttlefish, and bringing to a boil. Then lower heat to a simmer and boil for 45 minutes until flavours have been fully extracted. Discard anchovies and cuttlefish.
- Add the rest of the ingredients - chicken, carrots, potato, tomato, onion, pickled mustard leaves and juice.
- Boil for 30-40 minutes or until vegetables and chicken are soft enough.
- Add salt and white peppercorns. Serve!
Notes
ABC Soup - Quick FAQ
1. What is ABC soup?
ABC soup is a popular Malaysian Chinese home-style soup typically made with carrots, potatoes, tomatoes, onions, and meat such as pork ribs or chicken. It is known for its clear, naturally sweet broth and nourishing qualities.
2. Why is ABC soup considered a comfort food in Malaysian households?
ABC soup is often associated with home cooking, family meals, and recovery food when someone is feeling unwell. Its warm, mild, and naturally sweet flavour makes it soothing and easy to eat.
3. Is ABC soup healthy?
ABC soup is generally considered nutritious because it contains vegetables rich in vitamins and minerals, along with protein from meat. It is often prepared using simple ingredients and slow simmering, which helps extract natural flavours and nutrients.
4. What meat is traditionally used in ABC soup?
Pork rib bones are commonly used because they add depth and sweetness to the broth. Chicken can also be used as a lighter alternative.
5. Can ABC soup be made without pork?
Yes, ABC soup can be made using chicken or even as a vegetable-based soup. The flavour may vary slightly depending on the protein used.
6. What vegetables can be added to ABC soup?
Common vegetables include carrots, potatoes, tomatoes, and onions. Some variations also include corn, red dates, lotus root, or other root vegetables depending on family preferences.
7. How do pickled vegetables change the flavour of ABC soup?
Pickled vegetables add a slightly sour and savoury note to ABC soup, creating a more complex flavour profile similar to tangy soups like tom yam.
8. Why add dried cuttlefish to ABC soup?
Dried cuttlefish adds a smoky sweetness and enhances the soup’s natural umami flavour. Lightly frying the cuttlefish before adding it to the soup can intensify its aroma.
9. How long should ABC soup be simmered?
ABC soup is typically simmered for at least one to two hours. Slow simmering allows the ingredients to release their natural sweetness and creates a richer broth.
10. Can ABC soup be customised with different ingredients?
Yes, ABC soup is highly versatile and can be adapted using different vegetables, meats, or flavour boosters. Many families develop their own variations based on personal taste and available ingredients.