National Dish Taiwan: Cuttlefish Thick Soup (Recipe)
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Say hello to Cuttlefish Thick Soup, a hearty bowlful straight from the streets and home kitchens of Taiwan. Tender rings of squid swim in a savoury, gently spiced broth that gains warmth from garlic, ginger and fresh chilli. It is the kind of soup that comforts on a cold day yet feels lively enough for a sociable evening with friends. Simple to put together and endlessly adaptable, it brings a genuine taste of Taiwan to your own table.
About Cuttlefish Thick Soup
Cuttlefish Thick Soup is not only a traditional dish from Taiwan but a real treat for the senses. It brings together the tender texture of cuttlefish with a savoury, mildly spicy broth that gives every spoonful real depth. The aromas of fresh vegetables and spices coax out the flavours, making this soup a firm favourite among locals and visitors alike. Ideal on cold days or simply for convivial evenings, it delivers a slice of Taiwanese culture directly to your kitchen.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 200 g cuttlefish, cut into rings
- 500 ml chicken or vegetable stock
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1 piece of ginger, grated
- 1–2 fresh chillies, to taste
- 100 g vegetables (e.g. carrots, peppers, broccoli)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Fresh coriander, to garnish
Shopping for the ingredients
To prepare Cuttlefish Thick Soup you will want fresh ingredients, ideally sourced from a market or a specialist Asian grocery. When buying the cuttlefish, look for flesh that appears fresh with a clear, glossy surface. The vegetables should be fresh and crisp too, so you get the best possible texture and flavour. Do not forget to pick up a selection of spices and sauces, as these are decisive for the aroma of the soup.
Preparing the dish
Before you start cooking the Cuttlefish Thick Soup, it is important to prepare all the ingredients thoroughly. Slice the cuttlefish into even rings and cut the vegetables into bite-sized pieces. Carefully chopping the garlic and ginger will deepen the aroma of the broth. Remember to choose your chillies according to how much heat you fancy — more for the brave, less for a milder version.
Step-by-step instructions
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat and add the chopped garlic and ginger. Fry for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the fresh chillies and stir to bring the flavours together.
- Pour in the stock and bring it to the boil.
- Add the vegetables to the boiling broth and let them simmer for about 3–5 minutes.
- Add the cuttlefish rings and cook for a further 2–3 minutes, until the cuttlefish is tender but not rubbery.
- Season the soup with soy sauce and sesame oil to taste.
- Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh coriander.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
Cuttlefish Thick Soup is very easy to make gluten-free and lactose-free. For the base, use a gluten-free stock or make your own from fresh ingredients. Instead of ordinary soy sauce, reach for a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to keep that characteristic savoury note. Avoid any additives containing gluten and enjoy this delicious soup without a worry.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
Vegans and vegetarians can adapt Cuttlefish Thick Soup in a tasty way. Swap the cuttlefish for tofu or seitan for a similar texture and an extra hit of protein. Use a well-seasoned vegetable stock and, in place of animal products, add more vegetables such as mushrooms or courgette. This version is rich in flavour and still brings the typical aromas of Taiwanese cooking to the table — much like the meat-free comfort of Braised Tofu with Mushrooms.
More tips and tricks
There are plenty of variations of Cuttlefish Thick Soup to try. Experiment with different vegetables to discover new flavours. Adding a splash of coconut milk can also lend an interesting, creamy note. Give your creativity free rein and adjust the soup to your own taste until you find the perfect recipe for you.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
There are countless ways to tailor Cuttlefish Thick Soup to your preferences. Fancy something more exotic? Add a few Asian spices or even a pinch of turmeric. If you prefer it milder, you can reduce the chillies or leave them out altogether. That way you can shape the dish entirely to your own liking without giving up its authentic flavour.
Ingredient substitutions
If you do not have certain ingredients for Cuttlefish Thick Soup to hand, there are many alternatives. Instead of cuttlefish you could use prawns, or simply add more vegetables for an entirely plant-based version — a swap that also works nicely in Fish Ball Soup. In many cases you can also use oat milk in place of some of the stock to make the soup creamier. Be creative and find out what tastes best to you.
Drink pairing ideas
To round off Cuttlefish Thick Soup perfectly, you can serve a variety of drinks. A lightly chilled green tea goes wonderfully with the soup’s spicy notes. If you prefer something alcoholic, an Asian beer or a fruity sake could be a fitting choice. These drinks make for a harmonious tasting experience and complete the meal.
Serving and presentation ideas
Presentation matters when it comes to making Cuttlefish Thick Soup a special occasion. Serve the soup in deep, colourful bowls and garnish it with freshly chopped coriander or a squeeze of lime juice. For extra colour and texture you can also scatter over some crispy onion rings. An appealing presentation not only whets the appetite but also creates a festive atmosphere.
A bit of history
Cuttlefish Thick Soup has its roots in Taiwanese food culture and reflects the influences of the island’s various regional cuisines. Cuttlefish has been a popular part of the Taiwanese diet for centuries. The combination of broth and fresh ingredients speaks of a traditional way of cooking built on the idea of using fresh, local produce. This soup is a tribute to the variety and richness of Taiwanese cuisine, sitting comfortably alongside classics such as the thickened Rou Geng Soup.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Cuttlefish Thick Soup
Cuttlefish Thick Soup is a tasty, nourishing dish that you can easily prepare at home. With its hearty consistency and its intense aromas, it is the perfect dish for sociable evenings or quiet enjoyment on cold days. Let the many ways of adapting it inspire you, and bring authentic Taiwanese cooking into your own kitchen. Try this delicious recipe and experience the flavours of Taiwan!
