ABC Soup: classic bowl of comfort & nutrition
There’s something incredibly soothing about a pot of soup bubbling gently on the stove, filling the kitchen with a rich, savory aroma. For many, ABC soup is the ultimate comfort food a dish that combines simple ingredients with heartfelt memories. Whether it’s the vitamins-packed vegetables or the light, nourishing broth, ABC soup brings warmth to both body and soul.
When I was little, weekends at my grandparents’ house always meant two things: noisy cousins running around and a big pot of ABC soup simmering on the stove. My grandmother didn’t use recipes; she went by instinct, tossing in carrots, potatoes, tomatoes, and whatever leftover corn she had on hand. I remember sneaking into the kitchen just to lift the lid and catch a whiff that sweet, earthy aroma still reminds me of her gentle humming and weathered hands. Making this soup now feels like preserving a piece of that joy, one spoonful at a time.
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ABC Soup: classic bowl of comfort & nutrition
- Total Time: 1 hr 15 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
ABC Soup is a light, nutritious, and comforting Cantonese-style soup made with chicken drumsticks, carrots, tomatoes, potatoes, and corn. Simmered gently for over an hour, it brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetables and is perfect for everyday meals or when you’re feeling under the weather.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken drumsticks or 1/2 lb pork spare ribs
- 1 large russet potato, cut into 1.5–2 inch chunks
- 1 large carrot, sliced diagonally into chunks
- 1/2 yellow onion, cut into 1–1.5 inch pieces
- 1 large tomato, sliced into wedges
- 1 corn on the cob, chopped into 4 pieces
- 1.5 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp chicken bouillon powder
- Dash of white pepper
- 1/4 tsp sesame oil
- 6 cups of water
- Scallions, for garnish
Instructions
- Peel and cut the onion, corn, tomato, and carrot into appropriate chunk sizes as directed.
- Prepare the potato last to prevent oxidation. Peel and cut into 1.5-2 inch chunks.
- Bring a pot of water to boil and blanch the chicken drumsticks for 1-2 minutes (blanch pork ribs slightly longer). Discard the water and rinse the meat and pot.
- Return the chicken and all vegetables to the pot. Add 6 cups of water and bring to a boil.
- Skim off any scum that forms on the surface. Reduce heat to a low simmer, cover, and cook for at least 45 minutes (preferably 90 minutes for deeper flavor).
- Season the soup with salt, white pepper, chicken bouillon powder, and sesame oil. Garnish with scallions and serve hot.
Notes
- Russet potatoes will break down more, while Yukon gold or red potatoes hold their shape better.
- Use pork ribs for a richer broth if preferred.
- This soup is perfect with a scoop of rice added into your serving bowl.
- Simmering for longer enhances the depth of flavor from the meat and vegetables.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 1 hr 5 mins
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Asian, Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 400ml)
- Calories: 230 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 880 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 18 g
- Cholesterol: 65 mg
Keywords: ABC soup, Chinese soup, Cantonese soup, carrot potato tomato soup, easy Asian soup, chicken vegetable soup
Why You’ll Love This ABC Soup
- It’s easy to make: Perfect for beginners and requires only basic kitchen skills.
- It’s versatile: Easily swap ingredients based on what you have.
- It’s kid-friendly: Mild flavors and soft veggies make it great for all ages.
- It’s naturally healthy: Packed with vitamins A, B, and C from carrots, potatoes, and tomatoes.
- It’s budget-friendly: Uses everyday ingredients that are affordable and accessible.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making ABC Soup
Step 1: Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather and prep your ingredients:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 chicken drumsticks or 1/2 lb pork spare ribs
- 1 large potato (russet or Yukon gold)
- 1 large carrot
- 1/2 yellow onion
- 1 large tomato
- 1 corn on the cob
- 6 cups of water
Seasonings:
- 1.5 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp chicken bouillon powder
- Dash of white pepper
- 1/4 tsp sesame oil
- Scallions (for garnish)
Prep Instructions:
- Cut onion into chunks.
- Slice corn into four pieces.
- Cut tomato into wedges.
- Peel and cut carrot diagonally.
- Peel and chunk the potato last to prevent oxidation.
If you enjoy cozy dishes like this, you might also love this flavorful and comforting Zuppa Toscana soup, perfect for cooler days.
Step 2: Equipment Needed
To make the best ABC soup, having the right tools will streamline the process:
- Large Soup Pot: For boiling and simmering the soup.
- Knife & Cutting Board: Essential for prepping all your vegetables.
- Strainer or Slotted Spoon: For skimming off foam and scum.
- Ladle: Makes serving hot soup easier and safer.
- Measuring Spoons: Ensures accurate seasoning.
- Peeler: Quickly and safely removes vegetable skins.
Step 3: Cooking
- Blanch the Meat: Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add chicken drumsticks or pork ribs and blanch for 1–2 minutes (longer for pork). Rinse meat and pot.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the meat to the pot, add all vegetables and 6 cups of water.
- Bring to a Boil: Once boiling, skim off any foam from the surface.
- Simmer: Lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for at least 45 minutes (up to 90 minutes for richer flavor).
- Season: Add salt, bouillon powder, white pepper, and sesame oil.
- Garnish and Serve: Top with chopped scallions and serve hot.
Looking for something sweet after your soup? These best fluffy pancakes are a great way to end a cozy meal.
Step 4: Assembly
Although ABC soup doesn’t require traditional assembly, finishing touches matter:
- Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve with a bowl of steamed rice for a complete meal.
- Add more scallions or a splash of sesame oil if desired.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Preparing ABC Soup
Avoid these pitfalls to make your ABC soup perfect every time:
- Skipping the blanching step: Removes impurities and keeps the broth clear.
- Overcooking the potatoes: Cut them larger to help them hold their shape.
- Using too much seasoning early: Always taste and adjust at the end.
- Boiling too rapidly: Causes the broth to become cloudy.
- Not skimming the foam: Results in a greasy or murky soup.
Tips for Making the Best ABC Vegetable Soup
For a flavorful and healthy result, follow these tried-and-true tips:
- Simmer low and slow: This extracts maximum flavor from the meat and veggies.
- Use bone-in meat: Chicken drumsticks or pork ribs enhance the broth.
- Fresh vegetables are key: Use ripe tomatoes and sweet carrots for better taste.
- Customize with what’s on hand: Add celery, cabbage, or even daikon.
- Go meatless: Skip the meat and boost flavor with mushroom bouillon.
We also recommend checking out this easy and wholesome quinoa and black bean bowl for another nutritious meal idea.
FAQs About ABC Soup
Some say it’s because it’s “as easy as ABC” to make. Others believe it’s due to the presence of vitamins A, B, and C. There’s also a cultural nod to “American Born Chinese.”
Yes! It’s low in fat and full of nutrients from vegetables and protein from meat.
Many people enjoy it when feeling under the weather. The light broth soothes the throat and the nutrients help support recovery.
It supports immune health, is hydrating, and helps reduce food waste by using up common vegetables.
Definitely. Let it cool completely, then store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
ABC soup is a traditional, wholesome, and heartwarming dish that belongs in everyone’s recipe book. From its simplicity to its deep nutritional value, it’s easy to see why so many families consider it a staple. Whether you’re making it for the first time or revisiting a childhood favorite, you’ll find comfort in every spoonful.
Try making this soup for your next family dinner, and let us know how it turned out! Leave a comment below or share your version on social media using #ABCSoupLove. 🍲❤️
