Can I use pork instead of chicken?

Yes! Finely minced pork or a rich homemade pork bone broth is actually very traditional for this recipe and works wonderfully.

Why is winter melon good for the summer?

Despite its name, winter melon has a very high water content and is traditionally believed in Chinese culture to have a cooling effect on the body, making it a perfect hydrating food for hot summer months.

Can I freeze this soup for later?

If you are pureeing the soup for a younger baby, it freezes excellently. However, if you are keeping it in chunks for a toddler, the winter melon may become a bit mushy upon thawing, so fresh is best.

Little Melon's Chicken Soothe-Soup

Dairy-Free · 8m+ · en

This cooling summer soup pairs soft, melt-in-the-mouth winter melon with lean minced chicken and the natural sweetness of red dates and goji berries. It's a traditional Chinese favorite made perfectly salt-free and baby-friendly!

Serve the soup warm, not hot. Always test the temperature on the inside of your wrist before offering it to your baby.
You can add a tiny bit of finely grated ginger during the simmering step to help soothe little tummies.
If the minced chicken clumps up too much, try mixing it with a tablespoon of cold water before stirring it into the hot broth.