Opo Squash Meatball Soup Recipe – Asian Special
Opo Squash Meatball Soup is a comforting and nourishing dish that brings together tender meatballs and the mild, slightly sweet flavor of opo squash. This traditional Asian soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The light broth perfectly complements the juicy meatballs and delicate squash, making it an ideal choice for a cozy family meal. Simple to prepare, this soup is perfect for both busy weeknights and leisurely weekends. Let’s get started on this wholesome recipe!
- Prep Time15 min
- Cook Time25 min
- Total Time40 min
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground pork or chicken
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
For the Soup:
- 1 medium opo squash (about 1.5 lbs), peeled and sliced into thin rounds
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
- Green onions, chopped (optional)
Prepare the Meatballs:
In a large bowl, combine the ground pork or chicken, garlic, onion, soy sauce, fish sauce, black pepper, breadcrumbs, egg, green onions, and sesame oil.
Mix thoroughly until well combined.
Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and set aside.
Cook the Soup:
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add the garlic and onion, and sauté until fragrant and translucent.
Pour in the broth and bring it to a boil.
Gently add the meatballs to the boiling broth.
Reduce the heat to low and let the meatballs cook for about 10 minutes until they are fully cooked and float to the top.
Add the Opo Squash:
Add the sliced opo squash to the pot and simmer for an additional 10-12 minutes until the squash becomes tender.
Taste the broth and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Serve:
Ladle the soup into bowls.
Garnish with fresh cilantro and green onions if desired.
Serve hot and enjoy with steamed rice or a side of crusty bread.
Recipe Notes :
Meat Choice : Ground chicken, turkey, or beef can be used as a substitute for pork.
Opo Squash Substitute : If you can’t find opo squash, zucchini or chayote squash make excellent alternatives.
Flavor Boost : Add a splash of fish sauce or a dash of sesame oil for an extra layer of flavor.
Storage : Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
