ChineseSoup

He Jia Tuan Yuan, also known as Tofu Ball Soup, is a traditional dish often enjoyed during Lunar Chinese New Year celebrations. This comforting soup features soft tofu balls filled with a mix of ground meat, vegetables, or even sweet fillings, creating a balance of savory flavors in a warm, nourishing broth. The dish symbolizes family unity and harmony, making it an ideal meal for gathering loved ones during the festive season.

Origin of He Jia Tuan Yuan:
Tuan Yuan means “reunion” in Chinese, a key concept during the Lunar New Year, when families come together to celebrate. This dish has its roots in Chinese culinary traditions, especially among southern Chinese communities, where soups and dumplings are often enjoyed during the New Year to represent togetherness. He Jia Tuan Yuan is especially popular in regions like Guangdong, where tofu is a common ingredient in everyday cooking.

Why It’s Loved:
He Jia Tuan Yuan is cherished not only for its flavorful broth and tofu balls but also for its symbolism. The round shape of the tofu balls signifies completeness and unity, and the dish is seen as a way to bring family members closer together. The addition of tofu gives the dish a delicate texture that contrasts beautifully with the savory fillings inside, making it a comforting and satisfying dish that everyone can enjoy.

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He Jia Tuan Yuan (Tofu Ball Soup for Lunar Chinese New Year)

Recipe by RecipeWikkiCourse: Recipes

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

20

minutes

Cooking time

30

minutes

Calories

150

kcal

Ingredients

• 1 block firm tofu

• 1/2 pound ground pork or chicken (or any protein of your choice)

• 1/4 cup chopped mushrooms (shiitake or any variety)

• 2 tbsp chopped green onions

• 1 tbsp soy sauce

• 1 tsp sesame oil

• 1 tbsp cornstarch

• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth

• 1 tbsp ginger (minced)

• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

• Prepare the Tofu Balls:
  Press the tofu to remove excess water. Then, mash the tofu with a fork until smooth.
  In a bowl, mix the mashed tofu, ground meat, chopped mushrooms, green onions, soy sauce, sesame oil, cornstarch, salt, and pepper.
  Shape the mixture into small balls, about the size of a golf ball. Set them aside.
• Cook the Soup:
  In a large pot, bring the chicken or vegetable broth to a simmer.
  Add minced ginger and any vegetables you’re using (bok choy or spinach work well) to the pot.
  Carefully drop the tofu balls into the simmering broth. Cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the tofu balls float to the top and are cooked through.
• Serve:
  Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with more soy sauce or salt as needed.
  Ladle the soup into bowls, ensuring each serving has a good amount of tofu balls and vegetables.
• Enjoy:
  Serve hot and enjoy this comforting dish with your loved ones during the Lunar New Year celebration.

Notes

• Flavor Variations: You can add a variety of fillings, such as shrimp, minced beef, or even a vegetarian option with mushrooms and tofu.