Pig Brain Soup (China)

Pig Brain Soup is a traditional Chinese delicacy, often prepared in a clear broth with ginger, scallions, and sometimes rice wine or tofu. The dish features tender, creamy pig brains as the star ingredient and is particularly popular in regions like Sichuan, Hunan, and parts of southern China.

🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

This soup is high in protein and fat, with negligible carbohydrates. It is a significant source of cholesterol, vitamin B12, and iron, with a typical serving containing roughly 200-300 calories.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	260 kcal
Protein	18 g
Carbs	2 g
Fat	20 g
Fiber	0 g
Sugar	0.5 g
Sodium	680 mg
Cholesterol	2200 mg
Vitamin B12	12 µg
Iron	4.5 mg
Phosphorus	350 mg
Selenium	40 µg
Riboflavin (B2)	0.5 mg
Potassium	300 mg
Zinc	2.5 mg

Per 1 bowl (300 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Culinarily, the dish is prized for the brain's uniquely soft, custard-like texture. Nutritionally, it is exceptionally rich in omega-3 fatty acids (like DHA) and phosphatidylserine, compounds associated with brain health, though it is also very high in dietary cholesterol.