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Delicious He Jia Tuan Yuan: Tofu Ball Soup for New Year Magic

Delicious He Jia Tuan Yuan Tofu Ball Soup for New Year Magic

A heartwarming and quick Tofu Ball Soup, perfect for Lunar New Year celebrations, merging creamy tofu with savory pork and fresh greens.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 bowls
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Chinese
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Tofu Balls
  • 14 ounces soft tofu Fresh tofu gives the best creamy base; avoid pressing too hard.
  • 8 ounces ground pork Adds a rich, savory flavor; substitute with finely chopped mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch Acts as a binder; use gluten-free cornstarch for a gluten-free option.
  • 1 large egg Helps bind the mixture for shaping into balls.
  • 1 teaspoon salt Essential in seasoning the tofu mix.
For the Broth
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil Used for sautéing and enhancing the broth's taste.
  • 6 cups water Forms the base for the comforting broth.
  • 1 tablespoon chicken bouillon granules Boosts the overall flavor; choose gluten-free for dietary restrictions.
For the Garnish
  • 1 cup fresh pea vine shoots Adds a refreshing crunch; stir in just before serving.
  • 2 tablespoons dried shrimp Optional; elevates umami flavors.

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Saucepan
  • Measuring Spoons
  • Ladle

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. In a large mixing bowl, mash the soft tofu until creamy. Blend in the ground pork, cornstarch, beaten egg, chicken bouillon granules, and salt, mixing thoroughly to form a sticky batter.
  2. Pour water and vegetable oil into a large saucepan and bring the mixture to a vigorous boil over medium-high heat.
  3. Scoop about 1 tablespoon of tofu mixture, rolling it into a ball shape, and repeat until all mixture is formed into balls. Drop them into the boiling broth.
  4. Reduce heat to maintain a gentle simmer and cook the tofu balls for about 30 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
  5. Remove the pot from the heat and stir in fresh pea shoots and dried shrimp, adjusting seasoning to taste, then let meld for a few minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Fresh tofu only ensures creamy texture. Shape tofu balls uniformly for even cooking. Add pea shoots last for optimal flavor.

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