Bak Kut Teh is a famous Chinese herbal soup made by slowly simmering pork ribs with aromatic herbs, garlic, and spices. The name literally means “meat bone tea,” and it’s loved for its deep, comforting flavor and nourishing qualities.
🥣 What Is Bak Kut Teh?
Bak Kut Teh is a traditional Chinese herbal soup made by slowly simmering pork ribs with garlic and aromatic herbs. The broth is rich, peppery, and deeply comforting, often enjoyed as a hearty meal with rice.
🛒 Ingredients (Serves 3–4)
- 500–600g pork ribs
- 1 whole bulb garlic, cloves lightly crushed
- 1 pack Bak Kut Teh herbal spices
- 1.5–2 litres water
- Salt or light soy sauce to taste
👩🍳 How to Cook Bak Kut Teh
Step 1: Prepare the Pork Ribs
Blanch the pork ribs in boiling water for 3–5 minutes to remove impurities. Rinse them under running water and set aside.
Step 2: Build the Soup Base
Add water, pork ribs, garlic, and the herbal spice pack into a large soup pot.
Step 3: Simmer Until Fragrant
Bring the pot to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer gently for 1.5–2 hours until the broth is rich and aromatic.
Step 4: Season & Serve
Season with salt or light soy sauce to taste. Serve hot with rice.
🌿 Tips & Variations
- Serve with rice and Chinese tea for a classic experience.
- A clay pot or thick soup pot keeps the soup hot longer and enhances the flavor.
💛 Why Bak Kut Teh Is So Popular
- Deep, flavorful broth from long simmering
- Comforting and warming for the body
- Uses simple ingredients with big taste
- Great as a filling family meal
