At Meetbowl, a South Melbourne institution of 20 years with a CBD location opening soon, the signature bakso comes with quail egg-stuffed meatballs, crowned with a fried wonton. For more simplified versions, head to Ulam Rasa in the CBD, Dale La Pau in Camberwell and Ayam Penyet Ria, which has several locations around Melbourne. … Burmese House’s mohinga, a seafood noodle soup, is finished with a hard-boiled egg and more.
Ah, Melbourne’s false spring. You know the drill: one minute you’re basking in the sun, contemplating life choices while sipping a latte, and the next minute you’re dodging raindrops like they’re ninja stars. It’s the season that keeps you guessing, and it’s also the perfect time to cozy up with a bowl of soup that isn’t your usual laksa or ramen. Don’t get me wrong, those are great, but let’s explore some other delicious options to warm your soul and keep you going during this unpredictable weather.
1. Pumpkin Soup: The Classic Comfort
First up, we have pumpkin soup. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl. Seriously, if you’ve never had pumpkin soup, you’re missing out on one of life’s greatest pleasures. The sweet, creamy goodness is made from roasted pumpkin, onion, and a splash of cream or coconut milk. Plus, it’s so easy to make that even those of us who can barely boil water can whip it up. Pair it with some crusty bread, and you’ve got yourself a meal that says, “I might be single, but at least I can cook!”
2. Tom Yum Soup: A Zesty Adventure
Next, let’s talk about Tom Yum soup. This spicy Thai delight is the perfect antidote for those chilly Melbourne evenings. With its fragrant broth packed with lemongrass, lime leaves, and chili, it’s like a flavor explosion in your mouth. Not to mention, it’s loaded with shrimp or chicken, and let’s be honest, anything that involves seafood immediately elevates your dinner game. Just watch out for the chili; you don’t want to end up sweating more than a contestant on a reality cooking show.
3. Minestrone: A Hearty Italian Classic
If you’re in the mood for something hearty, then minestrone soup is your answer. This Italian classic is like a party in a pot, filled with a medley of vegetables, beans, and pasta. It’s basically a vegetable garden and a pasta factory had a baby. Plus, it’s super versatile—throw in whatever veggies you have lying around, and voilà! You’ve got a delicious meal that makes you feel like you’re on a Mediterranean vacation (minus the sunburn, hopefully).
4. Pho: The Vietnamese Wonder
Last but certainly not least, we have pho. This Vietnamese noodle soup is the ultimate comfort food, especially when the weather decides to play tricks on you. With its rich beef or chicken broth, fresh herbs, and tender noodles, it’s like a warm bowl of happiness. And let’s not forget the toppings! Throw in some bean sprouts, lime, and chili, and you’ve got a customizable experience that’s as exciting as a surprise party (but with less awkward small talk).
Conclusion
So, there you have it! Four soup options that aren’t laksa or ramen to help you survive Melbourne’s false spring. Each one brings its own unique flavor and warmth to the table, ensuring that you can stay cozy no matter how many times the weather changes its mind. So grab your spoon, put on your comfiest socks, and let’s embrace the soup season like the true Melburnians we are. Just remember: when in doubt, soup it out!
Inspired by: “Four soups (that aren’t laksa or ramen) for surviving Melbourne’s false spring” (r/melbourne)