Soups

Soup is excellent either to start a meal or as a meal in itself. In China and Southeast Asia, soups are often served as part of a meal, as one of the courses on the table; it also serves as a beverage. In this book, there are two types of soups: hearty and rich, such as Fiery Sichuan Soup or Sizzling Rice Soup; and light, brothy ones such as Tangy Tomato Soup with Lemon Grass or Steamed Vegetable Soup. They may be used either as part of an oriental menu or in your everyday meals. Many are simple and easy to put together, especially if you have the stock already prepared.