How to make West Lake Beef Soup

Why cooks start here

West Lake Beef Soup is cooked the way Hangzhou cooks it — salt judged by hand, fat used generously, and the table set for sharing. This is the home version, written down the way a chinese family cook actually puts it on the table.

West Lake Beef Soup hails from Hangzhou, a city known for its picturesque scenery and rich culinary traditions. This comforting dish is often prepared at home, capturing the essence of family-style Chinese cooking where ingredients are measured by intuition and the table is set to welcome guests. It's traditionally enjoyed during cooler months when its warmth and heartiness are most appreciated. The soup is a delicate dance of flavors, with tender minced beef floating in a clear, savory broth. The egg white adds a silky texture, while cilantro and white pepper bring fresh, peppery notes. A touch of soy sauce rounds it out, creating a harmonious bowl that invites everyone to share in its comforting embrace.