China Hai Dai Tang (Seaweed Soup)
Hai dai tang, or seaweed soup, is a light and nutritious soup that has been enjoyed in Chinese cuisine for centuries. Known for its simplicity and rich mineral content, this dish often features dried seaweed (kelp or wakame) as the star ingredient. Seaweed soup is commonly prepared in Chinese households as a quick and healthy meal, especially during cooler months. Its umami flavor is enhanced with simple seasonings and optional additions such as tofu or egg. This dish exemplifies the Chinese philosophy of balancing flavors and health benefits in cooking.
Recipe Servings: 4
Prep Time
10 minutes
+ 10 minutes resting
+ 10 minutes resting
Cook Time
15 minutes
Total Time
35 minutes
Vegetarian
Vegan
Gluten Free
Dairy Free
Kosher
Halal
Ingredients
- 1 oz (30 g) dried seaweed (kelp or wakame)
- 4 cups (1 liter) water or vegetable stock
- 1 block (200 g) silken tofu, diced (optional)
- 1 egg, beaten (optional)
- 2 Tbsp (30 ml) soy sauce
- 1 tsp (5 ml) sesame oil
- ½ tsp (2 g) white pepper (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- 1 Tbsp (10 g) chopped scallions
- 1 tsp (5 g) toasted sesame seeds (optional)
Directions
- Rinse the dried seaweed under cold running water to remove any grit or impurities.
- Soak the seaweed in a bowl of warm water for 10 minutes until it rehydrates and expands.
- Drain the seaweed and cut it into bite-sized pieces if necessary.
- In a medium pot, bring the water or stock to a gentle boil.
- Add the soaked seaweed and let it simmer for 5–7 minutes.
- If using tofu, gently add the diced tofu to the soup and simmer for an additional 2–3 minutes.
- If adding an egg, slowly drizzle the beaten egg into the soup while stirring gently to create ribbons.
- Stir in the soy sauce, sesame oil, white pepper (if using), and salt to taste. Adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped scallions and toasted sesame seeds.
- Serve hot as a light appetizer or alongside a main meal.
Notes
- Dried seaweed such as wakame or kelp can be found in Asian grocery stores or online.
- For added flavor, you can include minced garlic or ginger in the soup base.
- This soup is versatile—add mushrooms, shredded chicken, or other vegetables for variation.
Copyright © 1993—2025 World Trade Press. All rights reserved.