Paomo Soup Recipe (Chinese Lamb and Bread Soup)

Paomo, a traditional dish from Xi’an, combines tender lamb in a savory broth with crumbled flatbread for a uniquely satisfying meal.How to Make Authentic Chinese Lamb and Bread Soup

⏱️ Preparation Time: 30 minutes
🍳 Cooking Time: 2 hours
🥄 Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
👩‍🍳 Serves: 4

Ingredients:

For the Soup Base:

• 🍖 500g lamb or beef shank (with bone)
• 🧅 1 large onion (quartered)
• 🥕 1 large carrot (chunked)
• 🧄 4 garlic cloves (crushed)
• 🫚 1-inch piece of ginger (sliced)
• 🥣 8 cups water or beef broth
• 🌿 2 bay leaves
• 🧂 Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 🌿 1 tsp cumin powder
• 🌶️ Optional: 1 dried chili

For the Bread:

• 🥖 2 pieces of flatbread or pita bread
• 🌱 Fresh cilantro or parsley (chopped, for garnish)
• 🧅 Chopped green onions (for garnish)
• 🍋 Lemon or vinegar (optional, for seasoning)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Broth:

• Place the lamb or beef shank in a large pot with water or broth.
• Add onion, carrot, garlic, ginger, bay leaves, and optional dried chili.
• Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1.5–2 hours until the meat is tender.
• Skim any foam or impurities that rise to the surface during cooking.

2. Shred the Meat:

• Remove the meat from the pot and shred it into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
• Strain the broth to remove solids and return the liquid to the pot.

3. Season the Broth:

• Add cumin powder, salt, and pepper to the strained broth. Adjust seasoning to taste.

4. Prepare the Bread:

• Crumble the flatbread or pita into small pieces and divide into serving bowls.

5. Assemble the Soup:

• Ladle the hot broth over the crumbled bread in each bowl.
• Top with shredded meat, green onions, and cilantro.

6. Serve:

• Serve immediately. Add lemon juice or a splash of vinegar for an extra tangy flavor if desired.