Pork Rib Opo Squash Soup Recipe

Ever had one of those days where you crave a comforting, feel-good meal that simultaneously impresses everyone at the dinner table? That’s exactly where this soulful pork ribs and opo squash soup comes in—an absolute warm hug in a bowl.

Pork Rib Opo Squash Soup is one of my favorite flavors. When I was first developing this dish from its original recipe, I created a version that had much too thick of a broth.

I can still remember the “noodles” of pork that dangled from my chopsticks when I tried to eat it. So with that experience in mind, I made sure to also keep the broth in this incarnation very much on the thinner side.

The rich base of chicken broth perfumes the kitchen and warms the flesh.

Pork Rib Opo Squash Soup Recipe Ingredients

• Pork Ribs: Rich in protein, providing a savory, hearty flavor.
• Opo Squash: Low-calorie, high in fiber; adds a delicate, earthy taste.
• Fish Sauce: Provides umami richness; enhances soup’s savory depth.
• Garlic: Antioxidant-rich; adds aromatic depth and subtle heat.
• Onion: Adds sweetness and depth; contains vitamins and antioxidants.
• Green Onions: Freshness and crunch; mild, oniony bite.
• Cilantro: Adds vibrant freshness; rich in vitamin K.

Pork Rib Opo Squash Soup Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 1.5 pounds pork ribs, cut into individual pieces
• 1 medium opo squash, peeled and sliced
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 8 cups water or chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 stalks green onions, chopped
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
• Lime wedges for serving (optional)

How to Make this Pork Rib Opo Squash Soup Recipe

1. In a large pot over medium heat, warm the vegetable oil. Once the oil is warm, add the chopped onion. Sauté the onion until it is nearly translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

2. Put the garlic in the pot, which is now already fragrant because of the dish, and allow it to marry with the other ingredients for about a minute.
– Total time: 1 minute to do this step.

3. Place the pork ribs in the pot and sauté until they are lightly browned on all sides.

4. Add the fish sauce, mixing it well in with the pork ribs so that they become completely and thoroughly flavored.

5. Place water or chicken broth in the pot, then bring to a boil. When the boiling starts, lower the heat to low and let it simmer for around 45 minutes, or until the tenderness of the pork is evident.

6. Remove any foam or impurities that rise to the surface while cooking.

7. Combine the opo squash slices with the other ingredients and allow them to cook until just tender, about 10-15 minutes.

8. Add salt to taste and ground black pepper to flavor in the soup.

9. Stir the chopped green onions into the soup.

10. Serve the soup steaming, topped with fresh cilantro, if you want the garnish. Pass lime wedges for those who want to give the soup a fresh squeeze just before eating.

Pork Rib Opo Squash Soup Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Large pot
2. Cutting board
3. Chef’s knife
4. Measuring spoons
5. Wooden spoon or spatula
6. Ladle
7. Soup bowls
8. Optional: Skimmer or slotted spoon (for removing foam)

FAQ

• Can I use a different cut of pork?Indeed, you can replace the meat with pork shoulder or even chicken to make a different version of the soup.
• Is there a substitute for fish sauce?Soy sauce or a soy sauce and vinegar combination can be used as a substitute.
• What is opo squash?Opo squash, called bottle gourd in some places, is a squash that has a very mild flavor. This makes it an excellent choice for soups and stews where you want a slightly textured vegetable but don’t necessarily want the vegetable to be the flavor focus.
• How do I know when the pork ribs are done?Ribs ought to be tender and easy to break apart with a fork, which is usually the result of about an hour of simmering.
• Can I make this soup spicy?Definitely, you can slice up some chili peppers and toss them in, or add a wee bit of chili flakes for a nice spicy kick.
• How long can I store leftovers?Put uneaten food in a sealed container and keep it in the food compartment of your home refrigerator. It will last about three days. After that, throw it out.

Pork Rib Opo Squash Soup Recipe Substitutions and Variations

Pork ribs: Replace with chicken thighs or pork shoulder for a different protein option.
Opo squash; Substitute with zucchini or chayote for a similar texture and taste.
Fish sauce: For a different flavor profile, use soy sauce; for a simple substitute, use a teaspoon of salt.
Chicken broth: Swap in vegetable broth for a lighter taste or plain water for a more basic soup.
Cilantro: If you’re not a fan of cilantro or want to try a different garnish, use parsley.

Pro Tips

1. Browning the Ribs Ensure you brown the pork ribs well to develop a rich flavor base for your soup. This step adds depth to the broth, so don’t rush it. Allow the ribs to caramelize slightly for a robust flavor.

2. Using Broth over Water If possible, use chicken broth instead of water. This will enhance the overall flavor of your soup, making it more savory and rich.

3. Deglazing the Pot After browning the pork ribs, consider deglazing the pot with a splash of water or broth before adding the full amount. This helps lift any browned bits stuck to the bottom, which are full of flavor.

4. Balancing Salt and Fish Sauce Start with a small amount of salt and fish sauce, and gradually adjust to taste. Fish sauce can be quite salty, so tasting as you go will help achieve the perfect balance.

5. Enhancing with Acidity Don’t skip the lime wedges. A squeeze of fresh lime just before serving can brighten the flavors and add an appealing contrast to the savory elements of the soup.