San Sham Soup

San Shan Soup in the US:

What is it?

San Shan Soup is a traditional Chinese noodle soup originating from the Jiangsu province in East China. It's a fragrant and flavorful broth with egg noodles and various toppings like pork offal, meatballs, fish balls, mushrooms, and greens.

Flavor and taste:

- The broth has a clear and savory taste with hints of chicken and mushrooms.

- The egg noodles are soft and chewy.

- The toppings add different textures and flavors, creating a satisfying and comforting soup.

Common toppings in the US:

- Meatballs: Homemade meatballs made from ground pork, spices, and sometimes vegetables.

- Pork offal: Tripe, stomach, and other pork offal, boiled and seasoned.

- Fish balls: Large, bouncy fish balls made from fish paste.

- Mushrooms: Usually shiitake mushrooms, sliced or whole.

- Green vegetables: Chopped green onions or bok choy.

Where to find it:

- Small, mom-and-pop Chinese restaurants in major US cities with a focus on regional Chinese cuisine.

- Some larger Chinese restaurants with extensive menus.

- Specialized Asian groceries or restaurants with a San Shan Soup station.

Tips for trying it:

Additional notes:

- The spelling and pronunciation of the soup can vary slightly depending on the restaurant or region.

- The toppings may also vary depending on the restaurant and their availability.

- Be sure to ask about vegetarian options if you are vegetarian.

Overall, San Shan Soup is a delicious and affordable way to experience Chinese cuisine in the US. It's a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for a casual meal or a warm snack.