Authentic Fujian Buddha Jumps Over the Wall Soup: A Gourmet Experience Like No Other
Few dishes carry the mystique and allure of Fujian’s iconic “Buddha Jumps Over the Wall” soup.
Named for its irresistible aroma that is said to be so enticing it could lure even a vegetarian monk over the wall of a temple, this soup is a true masterpiece of Chinese culinary artistry.
With origins dating back to the Qing Dynasty, this luxurious soup is a rich, flavorful blend of delicacies, including abalone, sea cucumber, shark fin (though often omitted today), and a variety of meats and herbs.
Each ingredient is meticulously prepared and slow-cooked in a rich broth, resulting in an intricate symphony of flavors that is as nourishing as it is delicious.
This dish is typically reserved for special occasions, and each sip tells the story of tradition, craftsmanship, and indulgence.
Preparation time of the recipe
- Preparation: 30 minutes (plus 2-3 hours for soaking dried ingredients)
- Cooking: 4-5 hours
- Total time: 4.5-5.5 hours
Serves: 4-6 people
Difficulty: Difficult
Ingredients
The necessary ingredients (possible in all kinds of variations):
- 4 dried abalone (soaked in water overnight)
- 1 dried sea cucumber (soaked in water overnight)
- 4 dried shiitake mushrooms (soaked in water for 2 hours)
- 4 dried scallops (soaked in water for 2 hours)
- 4 pieces of fish maw (soaked in water for 2 hours)
- 1 piece of dried shark fin (optional, soaked in water overnight)
- 200g chicken breast, cut into large pieces
- 200g pork belly, cut into large pieces
- 200g Chinese ham (Jinhua ham preferred), cut into large pieces
- 4 quail eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
- 4-6 slices of fresh ginseng root
- 4 pieces of bamboo pith (soaked in water for 2 hours)
- 1 piece of dried tangerine peel
- 3 slices of ginger
- 3 cloves garlic, crushed
- 2 spring onions, cut into sections
- 1/2 cup Shaoxing wine
- 6-8 cups chicken or pork broth
- Salt to taste
Alternative Ingredients:
- Vegan Version: Substitute the meats and seafood with a combination of tofu, seitan, and a variety of mushrooms. Use vegetable broth.
- Simplified Version: Use only a selection of the above ingredients, focusing on abalone, sea cucumber, mushrooms, and meat.
- Gluten-Free Version: Ensure all ingredients, especially soy sauce or any sauces added, are gluten-free.
Steps
The steps of preparation (possible in all kinds of variations):
Preparing Buddha Jumps Over the Wall is a labor of love, requiring patience and attention to detail. The result, however, is a dish worthy of the most special occasions.
- Begin by preparing the dried ingredients. Soak the abalone, sea cucumber, shark fin, shiitake mushrooms, scallops, fish maw, and bamboo pith according to the instructions. After soaking, rinse them thoroughly and set them aside.
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Blanch the chicken breast, pork belly, and Chinese ham for 2-3 minutes to remove impurities. Drain and rinse the meats under cold water.
- In a heavy-bottomed soup pot or clay pot, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Add the ginger slices, garlic, and spring onions, and sauté until fragrant.
- Add the blanched chicken, pork belly, and Chinese ham to the pot. Stir in the Shaoxing wine and cook for another minute, allowing the alcohol to evaporate.
- Pour in the chicken or pork broth, and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Add the soaked abalone, sea cucumber, shark fin (if using), shiitake mushrooms, scallops, fish maw, bamboo pith, and dried tangerine peel to the pot.
- Continue to simmer the soup gently for 3-4 hours, adding more broth if necessary to keep the ingredients submerged.
- About 30 minutes before serving, add the quail eggs and fresh ginseng root slices to the soup. Season with salt to taste.
- Once the soup is done, carefully remove the larger ingredients and slice them into bite-sized pieces before returning them to the soup. This step makes it easier to serve and enjoy.
- Serve the soup hot, ensuring each bowl receives a variety of the luxurious ingredients. Garnish with a touch of fresh herbs if desired.
Nutritional Benefits
Buddha Jumps Over the Wall is not just a feast for the senses; it also offers numerous health benefits.
- Rich in Protein: The combination of meats, seafood, and eggs provides a high-quality source of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
- Collagen: Sea cucumber and fish maw are known for their collagen content, which supports skin health and joint flexibility.
- Immune Support: Ginseng and shiitake mushrooms are valued for their immune-boosting properties and ability to fight inflammation.
- Digestive Health: The soup contains a balanced mix of fibers from mushrooms and bamboo pith, promoting healthy digestion.
- Low in Carbs: This soup is low in carbohydrates, making it a suitable choice for those on a low-carb diet.
- Essential Minerals: The seafood and meats in the soup are rich in minerals such as iron, zinc, and selenium, important for overall well-being.
Possible Additions or Upgrades
Buddha Jumps Over the Wall is already a luxurious dish, but there are always ways to personalize and elevate the experience.
- Bird’s Nest: Add a few strands of bird’s nest during the final 30 minutes of cooking for an extra touch of luxury.
- Truffle: Garnish with a few shavings of truffle to add an earthy, aromatic layer of flavor.
- Gold Leaf: For an extravagant presentation, top the soup with a small piece of edible gold leaf.
- Foie Gras: Add a small piece of seared foie gras just before serving for a rich, buttery addition.
- Herbal Additions: Include traditional Chinese herbs like goji berries or red dates for additional health benefits.
Questions and Answers
What is the origin of Buddha Jumps Over the Wall?
The dish originated in the Fujian province of China during the Qing Dynasty. It was created by a famous chef who combined the finest ingredients to impress his guests.
Why is it called Buddha Jumps Over the Wall?
The name comes from a legend that the aroma of the soup was so irresistible that it could entice a vegetarian monk, or Buddha, to jump over the temple wall to taste it.
Can I make this soup without shark fin?
Yes, due to ethical concerns, many modern versions of this soup omit shark fin, and the dish is just as delicious without it.
Is this dish difficult to prepare?
Yes, it requires time and precision, especially with the preparation of dried ingredients. However, the results are well worth the effort.
Can I prepare the ingredients in advance?
Yes, you can soak the dried ingredients and blanch the meats a day in advance to save time on the day of cooking.
What should I serve with Buddha Jumps Over the Wall?
This soup is often served as a standalone course due to its richness, but you can accompany it with a light, simple vegetable dish and steamed rice.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to avoid overcooking the delicate ingredients.
Can I freeze this soup?
It’s not recommended to freeze this soup, as the texture of the delicate ingredients like abalone and sea cucumber may be compromised.
Can I use a slow cooker?
Yes, after the initial sautéing of the ingredients, you can transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Is this soup considered healthy?
While it is high in protein and collagen, it is also rich in fats and calories, so it’s best enjoyed in moderation.
Sharing is Caring!
If you take on the challenge of making this iconic soup, I’d love to hear about your experience!
Share your results and thoughts on social media, and don’t forget to tag me. Let’s celebrate this extraordinary dish and keep the tradition of Buddha Jumps Over the Wall alive and well!
