A Deliciously Tasty Fish Ball Noodle Soup Recipe
Fish balls are extremely popular in many regions of China. They were a popular “street food”, sold by cart vendors, on sidewalks, until most were outlawed. Today, these fried fish treats can be found just about everywhere in China, from convenience stores and frozen food sections in markets, to fast food places and upscale eateries.
However, it was not always a stand-alone snack, nor was it fried. The fish ball is said to date back to China’s 16th century Qing Dynasty. The emperor was said to be obsessed with all things fish. So much so, that royal chefs were always clamoring to come up with new ways to make fish for their ruler.
One chef discovered that the fish could be minced up with some spices and flour to form little balls. Not wanting to serve the fish balls on their own, he placed them in a stock with some rice noodles. Hence, fish ball soup was born.
The soup is still served regularly throughout Asia at family meals and restaurants. While it is possible to get fish ball soup in other parts of the world, it may be easier (and more satisfying) to make it at home. If that interests you, we have a delicious fish ball soup recipe that you’re sure to enjoy.
A Deliciously Tasty Fish Ball Noodle Soup Recipe
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total: 40 minutes
Ingredients
For The Fish Balls
- 14 ounces of Haddock fillets (minced)
- 4 ounces of squid (chopped)
- a few pinches of sea salt and white pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons of rice wine
- 2 tablespoons of cornstarch
- 2 teaspoons of oyster sauce
- 2 tablespoons of fresh cilantro (chopped)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
The Broth
- 3 quarts of fresh fish stock
- 10-1/2 ounces of cabbage (preferably Napa)
- 14 ounces of vermicelli rice noodles (cooked)
- a few pinches of sea salt and white pepper
- 1/2 tablespoon of garlic powder
- 1/2 cup of seafood mushrooms
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce or tamari
- 2 stalks green onion (chopped)
For Serving
- a bunch of chopped cilantro leaves (fresh)
- chili oil
- a bunch of chopped chives (fresh)
Preparation
- Put the Haddock and squid into a blender or food processor. Add in the salt, white pepper, rice wine, cornstarch, egg whites, and oyster sauce. Blend until the mixture is light and fluffy. Then add in the cilantro leaves and blend for a few seconds. Using clean hands, knead the mixture into small, oval-shaped balls. You should end up with 24, give or take a few.
- Add the fish stock to a large wok or stock pot, and bring to a simmer. Add in the green onion, mushrooms, cabbage, garlic, and salt and pepper. Mix well.
- Turn the heat up to medium and carefully add the fish balls. Cook for about 4-5 minutes or until the fish balls rise to the top and turn opaque.
- Splash in the soy sauce or tamari.
- Separate the noodles between 4 bowls. Add in the stock and veggies. Then place the fish balls into the bowls.
- Add in the chili oil, cilantro, and chives according to taste.
Notes
If you can’t get a hold of fish stock, clam juice can be used. You can also freeze seafood shells (crab, shrimp, clams, etc) then boil them to make a quick and tasty stock when planning your soup.
Nutrition Facts
- calories: 509
- carbohydrates: 80 grams
- protein: 33 grams
- fat: 6 grams
- sodium: 82 milligrams
- fiber: 4 grams
How Long Will Leftover Fish Ball Soup Last?
If you find yourself with some leftover fish ball soup, no worries, it will keep nicely in the refrigerator for 4-5 days in a tightly sealed container. If you need to keep it longer than that, you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Just take out the noodles before you freeze it. The noodles will fall apart over time and leave the soup grainy. You can make fresh noodles when you reheat the soup.
What Can Be Served With Fish Ball Soup?
In Chinese culture, there is no such thing as “side dishes” per se. If additional food is served, it’s made to accommodate the number of people at the table. The food is then shared by everyone.
So if you’re making a special dinner for friends or family, and want to honor the traditions that come with preparing a Chinese dish, add some of these foods to the table.
1. Sautéed Tofu
This high-protein food is a great addition to any table. You can keep it separate or add it to the soup for a while new texture.
2. Stir Fried Vegetables
Use the veggies of your choice to whip up a quick and easy table accompaniment. It’s healthy and the texture is a nice contrast to the fish ball soup.
3. Onion Rings
Though not a traditional Chinese food, onion rings are a great addition to just about any meal.
4. Scallion Pancakes
These tasty potato-based treats are a filling choice to go with any soup.
5. Chinese Cucumber Salad
This crunchy, healthy salad is a refreshing, low calorie addition to the main attraction.
6. Spicy Asian Zucchini
Roasted or sautéed, add some Siracusa, honey, soy sauce, and sesame oil for a unique dish your taste buds will thank you for.
7. Fresh Spring Rolls
Perhaps, nothing is more satisfying than these delicious veggies wrapped in rice paper. You can dip them in the soup too.
8. Egg Tarts
If you’re looking for a great traditional Chinese dessert, egg tarts are just the dish. A creamy custard set in a flaky puff pastry.
9. Soy Milk Pudding
Another great dessert. This velvety soft treat is made with soy milk and soy flour, so it’s great for people that have issues with dairy.
10. Tsingtao Beer
A tasty beverage for the adults in the group. This beer comes from the oldest brewery in China and has a lower alcohol content than most of its counterparts.
11. Chrysanthemum Tea
You make this special tea from flower petals. They give the tea a fragrant aroma that also cleanses the palate.
