Celtuce and pork rib soup
Celtuce and pork rib soup is a comforting, savory Chinese soup featuring tender pork ribs and crisp, mild celtuce (also known as stem lettuce or wo sun). The dish is typically made by simmering pork ribs with celtuce, ginger, and sometimes goji berries or red dates in a clear broth. It is a popular home-style dish in various regions of China, especially during warmer months for its light and refreshing qualities.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This soup is a balanced, protein-rich dish with moderate fat from the pork ribs and very low carbohydrates, as celtuce is a low-starch vegetable. It provides a good source of protein, B vitamins, and minerals like potassium and phosphorus, with a rough calorie estimate of 180-220 kcal per typical serving.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 200 kcal |
| Protein | 15 g |
| Carbs | 5 g |
| Fat | 13 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 2 g |
| Sodium | 450 mg |
| Potassium | 380 mg |
| Phosphorus | 150 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.3 mg |
| Niacin (B3) | 4 mg |
| Selenium | 12 µg |
| Zinc | 2.5 mg |
| Iron | 1.2 mg |
| Vitamin K | 15 µg |
Per 1 bowl (300 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, this soup embodies the Chinese culinary principle of 'yi yuan yang' (一原养), meaning using simple, fresh ingredients to create a nourishing and harmonious dish. Nutritionally, celtuce is unique for its high water content and crisp texture, making the soup hydrating and light while the ribs provide sustaining protein.
