I start by dicing the onion, mincing the garlic and ginger, and slicing mushrooms. Shredding the carrots and slicing the cabbage last keeps them fresh and crisp. Prepping all ingredients before heating the pot makes cooking much smoother.
I pour sesame oil into the pot over medium heat and add the onions with a pinch of salt and pepper. After a few minutes, I toss in the carrots and mushrooms and cook for a couple more minutes. The aromas at this stage always get me excited.
Next, I add the ground pork, garlic, and ginger. I break the pork into small pieces while cooking until it’s no longer pink. This step is crucial for building a savory base.
I stir in coconut aminos and cabbage, letting the cabbage wilt slightly before adding the chicken or bone broth. This layering of flavors makes the soup taste rich without being heavy.
Once everything is in, I bring it to a boil and then reduce it to a simmer for 20-25 minutes. I add rice vinegar at the end to brighten the flavors. Simmering allows the vegetables to blend perfectly with the broth.
I love serving mine with cubed avocado, sriracha, chopped green onions, and fresh cilantro. These toppings make every spoonful exciting and flavorful.