It is so hot in Hong Kong these days! What else is better to help relief some of the heat other than having some winter melon! Winter melon soup is one of the favorite soups for Hong Kong’s summertime.
What is winter melon? Winter melon is a type of gourd typically grown in hot climates. This giant gourd typically weighs more than 10 kg. Ironically, winter melon is usually eaten in the summer time when the weather is hot. Its mild sweet taste makes it very appetizing in the summer. It is often used as a main ingredient in soups. Chinese’s belief in yin and yang carries through to its food. Winter melon is believed to have a cooling element. As such, to reduce the “heat” in your system in this sweltering heat, winter melon soup is the perfect choice.
At many restaurants, you can get it served in the winter melon shell. Its waxy coat makes it a bit waterproof, making it a perfect “bowl” for the soup. Chefs cut off the melons in half, scoop out the pulp inside which is diced, double steamed together with dried mushroom, dried scallops, shrimp, cured ham and pork and sometimes lotus seed.
Winter Melon Soup Bowl
Foodies in Hong Kong are lucky. These whole Winter Melon Soup “Bowls” are available at many restaurants in town. After a fun hot day out on a walking tour with our Foodie participants, this is one of our favorite items for dinner. Order and try one too!
