Molo Soup is a warm, flavorful dish from the Philippines, loved for its comforting combination of ingredients. It’s a hearty, savory soup that features a delicate broth filled with chicken, shrimp, and the ever-pleasing wonton-like dumplings. If you’ve ever experienced the magic of this dish, you’ll know it’s the kind of meal that makes you feel at home-whether you’re under the weather or simply in need of something soothing. What makes Molo Soup so special is how it blends simplicity and depth of flavor, using ingredients that can be found in your local market but come together to create a sophisticated, satisfying dish.
Today, we’re diving into a full Molo Soup recipe that will help you recreate this Filipino classic in your own kitchen. From the ingredients to the cooking method, and even a few helpful tips, this guide will ensure that your Molo Soup turns out perfectly, no matter your skill level in the kitchen.
Molo Soup Recipe
This Molo Soup recipe is designed to be both accessible and flavorful. You don’t need to be an expert chef to make this dish, but a little attention to detail will elevate it. The recipe will guide you through the necessary steps, from preparing the soup base to making the dumplings, and will also share expert insights to give you the best chance of success.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s a breakdown of the essential ingredients you’ll need to make the perfect Molo Soup:
- Chicken (usually boneless, skinless breast or thigh meat)
- Shrimp (peeled and deveined, or you can use ground shrimp for a smoother texture)
- Wonton wrappers (this is the ’dumpling’ part of Molo Soup)
- Garlic (finely chopped)
- Onion (medium, chopped)
- Ginger (peeled and finely chopped or sliced thinly)
- Fish sauce (for umami, or you can substitute with soy sauce)
- Salt and pepper (for seasoning)
- Chicken broth (for the soup base; homemade or store-bought)
- Green onions (sliced, for garnish)
- Cabbage (shredded, adds texture and freshness)
- Carrots (optional, but they add color and subtle sweetness)
Cooking Instructions
Now that you’ve got everything ready, let’s go through the process step-by-step.
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Prepare The Dumplings
- In a bowl, combine ground chicken, shrimp, minced garlic, ginger, fish sauce, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until everything is well incorporated.
- Lay out the wonton wrappers on a flat surface and spoon a small amount of the mixture into the center of each wrapper.
- Wet the edges of the wrapper with a little water and fold it into a triangle or pleated shape. Make sure the edges are sealed tightly.
- Set the dumplings aside on a plate.
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Cook The Soup Base
- In a large pot, heat some oil and sauté the garlic, onions, and ginger until aromatic-this is the flavor foundation of the soup, so make sure you let it cook for a few minutes until golden.
- Add the chicken broth and bring it to a boil.
- Once boiling, lower the heat to a simmer and add the cabbage, carrots (if using), and season with fish sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
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Add The Dumplings
- Carefully drop the prepared dumplings into the simmering broth. Let them cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until they float to the surface. This means they’re ready!
- Once they’re cooked, you’ll notice the broth has a slightly thickened texture, thanks to the dumplings.
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Final Touches
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
- Just before serving, garnish the soup with freshly sliced green onions.
Ingredient Insights
Let’s dive a little deeper into the ingredients that make Molo Soup special and the roles they play in the dish:
- Chicken: The heart of Molo Soup. Chicken gives the broth its rich base and offers a tender, satisfying texture. Some variations also use pork, but chicken is the most common choice for its mild flavor.
- Shrimp: The shrimp brings a touch of sweetness and a more delicate flavor compared to the chicken. Ground shrimp can be used in the dumplings, or whole shrimp can be added to the soup for an extra burst of flavor.
- Wonton wrappers: These are what make Molo Soup different from your standard chicken soup. The wrappers are thin and tender, and when filled with the savory mixture of chicken and shrimp, they add a chewy texture that contrasts perfectly with the broth.
- Fish Sauce: A secret weapon in Filipino cooking. Fish sauce adds depth, umami, and complexity to the broth. If you don’t have fish sauce, soy sauce can work as a substitute, but the flavor will not be as rich.
- Ginger and Garlic: Essential aromatics that form the backbone of the flavor profile. The garlic offers warmth, while ginger provides a subtle kick that cuts through the richness of the broth.
- Cabbage and Carrots: Vegetables that add crunch and brightness. They also make the soup feel lighter while complementing the heavier elements like the chicken and shrimp.
Expert Tips
- Make Your Own Broth: While store-bought chicken broth is convenient, making your own can take the flavor of your Molo Soup to the next level. Simply simmer chicken bones with onions, garlic, ginger, and a few herbs for a few hours. It’s worth the extra time!
- Use Fresh Wonton Wrappers: If possible, buy fresh wonton wrappers instead of the dried ones. They’ll hold up better in the soup and provide a smoother texture.
- Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the broth as you go along and adjust the seasoning to suit your preference. Some like it saltier, while others prefer it more delicate. The fish sauce and salt will be key to achieving the right balance.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Dumplings: When adding the dumplings to the pot, don’t overcrowd the soup. Make sure the dumplings have enough space to cook evenly and float to the surface.
Recipe Variations
Molo Soup is wonderfully versatile, so feel free to make some tweaks and customize it based on your preferences:
- Pork Molo Soup: Instead of chicken, you can use ground pork for a richer flavor. Ground beef also works well, but it will change the soup’s overall taste.
- Vegetarian Molo Soup: For a vegetarian version, swap the meat and shrimp with mushrooms or tofu. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep the flavor intact.
- Spicy Molo Soup: If you like a little heat, you can add chopped red chilies or a dash of chili oil to the broth. It adds a fiery kick without overpowering the other flavors.
- Noodle Molo Soup: For a more filling version, add some egg noodles or rice noodles to the soup along with the dumplings. This makes it a more substantial meal.
Final Words
Molo Soup is a comforting dish that holds a special place in Filipino cuisine. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience-a bowl of warmth and tradition that brings family and friends together. The balance of flavors, the texture of the dumplings, and the rich, aromatic broth make it a standout dish that never fails to satisfy.
FAQs
What Is Molo Soup?
Molo soup is a traditional Filipino dish made with a clear broth, stuffed dumplings (called ’molo’), and various vegetables. The dumplings are typically filled with a mixture of ground pork, shrimp, and sometimes vegetables, then cooked in a savory broth.
What Are The Main Ingredients For Molo Soup?
The main ingredients for molo soup include molo wrappers (or dumpling wrappers), ground pork, shrimp, garlic, onion, fish sauce, chicken or pork broth, and vegetables such as cabbage and carrots.
Can I Use Chicken Instead Of Pork In Molo Soup?
Yes, you can substitute chicken for pork in molo soup. Ground chicken or shredded chicken can be used in the dumplings, and chicken broth can replace pork broth in the soup base.
How Do You Make The Molo Dumplings?
To make the molo dumplings, mix ground pork, shrimp, minced garlic, and onion with fish sauce, salt, and pepper. Place a spoonful of this mixture onto each molo wrapper, fold it, and seal the edges tightly. The dumplings are then boiled in the broth until fully cooked.
What Can I Serve With Molo Soup?
Molo soup is often served as a main dish on its own, but you can pair it with steamed rice, a side of crispy fried fish, or even a small salad. Some people also enjoy it with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, calamansi (Filipino lime), and chili.
How Do You Make The Broth For Molo Soup?
The broth for molo soup is typically made by simmering pork or chicken bones with garlic, onion, and sometimes ginger. The resulting stock is then strained and used as the base for the soup. Season with fish sauce, salt, and pepper for flavor.
Can I Use Store-bought Dumpling Wrappers For Molo Soup?
Yes, you can use store-bought dumpling wrappers as a convenient alternative to making your own. However, the traditional molo wrappers are thin, round sheets that are similar to wonton or dumpling skins.
Is Molo Soup Spicy?
Molo soup is typically not spicy, but it can be adjusted to your preferred spice level. Some people add chili peppers or serve the soup with a spicy dipping sauce for an extra kick.
How Long Does It Take To Cook Molo Soup?
The total cooking time for molo soup is around 30 to 45 minutes. This includes the time to prepare the dumplings and cook them in the broth. The broth itself can be made in advance to save time.
Can I Make Molo Soup Ahead Of Time?
Yes, you can make molo soup ahead of time. You can prepare the dumplings and broth separately and store them in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat the broth and cook the dumplings in it until they are hot.