How to Make ABC Soup (Traditional & Healthy Version)
ABC Soup is a comforting and nutritious staple in Singaporean households, loved for its simplicity, wholesomeness, and vibrant flavors. Often found bubbling away in kopitiams and featured in hawker center stalls, this classic clear soup is named 'ABC' not only for its basic ingredients — carrots, potatoes, and tomatoes — but also for the vitamins it delivers. A symbol of Singapore’s multicultural food tapestry, ABC Soup reflects the warmth and heartiness of home-cooked meals, enjoyed by families across the island. This soup exemplifies the fusion spirit of Singapore cuisine, blending Chinese culinary roots with a touch of local flair. The clear broth is light yet deeply flavorful, thanks to pork ribs simmered with root vegetables and onions, creating a nourishing meal that appeals to all ages. Whether served as a quick weekday lunch or as a gentle pick-me-up after a long day, ABC Soup’s gentle, slightly sweet flavor and inviting aroma make it a perennial favorite at both kopitiams and home kitchens. If you’re looking for a healthy, easy-to-make soup that fits seamlessly into calorie-conscious eating, Singaporean ABC Soup is the perfect choice.
Ingredients
- 200g Pork ribs (lean, bone-in)
- 1 medium (120g) Carrot (peeled and cut into chunks)
- 1 medium (130g) Potato (peeled and cut into chunks)
- 1 large (100g) Tomato (quartered)
- 1 small (50g) Onion (peeled and quartered)
- 1/2 (80g) Corn on the cob (cut into 2 pieces)
- 800ml Water (filtered)
- 1/2 tsp Salt (to taste)
- 1/4 tsp White pepper (to taste)
- 1 stalk Spring onion (chopped, for garnish)
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Blanch the pork ribs in boiling water for 2 minutes to remove impur...
Blanch the pork ribs in boiling water for 2 minutes to remove impurities. Drain and rinse under running water.
Step 2 · Place the cleaned pork ribs
Place the cleaned pork ribs, carrot, potato, onion, corn, and water into a large soup pot.
Step 3 · Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat
Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a gentle simmer.
Step 4 · Add the tomato and simmer uncovered for 15 minutes until vegetables...
Add the tomato and simmer uncovered for 15 minutes until vegetables are tender and flavors meld.
Step 5 · Season the soup with salt and white pepper to taste
Season the soup with salt and white pepper to taste.
Step 6 · Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with chopped spring onion if desired
Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with chopped spring onion if desired. Serve hot.
Why this recipe is healthy
This Singaporean ABC Soup is a healthy choice thanks to its lean protein source, abundant vegetables, and low-calorie, oil-free preparation. The combination of fresh produce and careful seasoning means you get full-bodied flavor without unnecessary fats or additives. It’s filling, hydrating, and packed with essential nutrients, making it perfect for a balanced, health-conscious diet.
A note on tradition
ABC Soup is a beloved everyday dish in Singapore, often served as a nourishing meal at home or in kopitiams alongside rice. Its simplicity and wholesome ingredients make it popular among all ethnic groups. The soup is especially cherished during family gatherings, and as a comfort food for both young and old. While not tied to a specific festival, its presence is a testament to the Singaporean tradition of hearty, home-cooked meals.