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Imitation Shark Fin Soup (Fake Fin Soup)
Chinese New Year is a time when families celebrating the occasion get together and indulge in some serious feasting. Nowadays, with society getting more affluent, the food is also getting more elaborate – for example, a luxurious pot of shark fin soup is no longer a rare sight on the dining table. I have avoided shark fin soup due to the cruelty of shark finning and how it had led to a drastic decline in the shark population. I have nothing against those who consume this Chinese delicacy though, nor do I want to be hypocritical about it since I’m not a vegetarian.
However, since I have full control over what I cook at home, I prefer to cook imitation shark fin soup where the fake fin is essentially made with gelatin (see picture above).
For those who have tasted the real shark fin soup before, you may agree with me that the fin is largely tasteless, with the flavour contributed by the rich soup broth.
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While imitation shark fin may lose out slightly in terms of texture to the real thing, the firm texture of the imitation fin still gives it a good bite. Best of all, it cost a tiny fraction of the price (I bought a packet for less than S$10) and it is a much kinder option you can consider amidst this festive season.
Looks yummy! Are u cooking this for the reunion dinner?
I still haven’t decided what to cook for reunion dinner, maybe fish maw soup instead of this :p
From the title, I thought you’d use shark fin melon, which I found after seeing it on your blog. I like the fake stuff too.
wow you still remember my shark fin melon soup ♥
I think I’m gonna try making this! Love shark’s fin soup!
Too much (real) sharks fin = too much mercury! And mercury accumulates in our bodies :O ….good alternative to use imitation sharks fin. I wonder if Tang Hoon works – cos it looks like Tang Hoon from the photos ;p
yes tang hoon will work too! just that not as firm :p
Oh yum – great post – I think this is the first recipe I’ve ever read of the dish. I do enjoy it. Usually have my fair share at wedding dinners.
that is so true. My grandma uses it too and the result is like yours. it’s still as tasty!
That looks interesting. I would go for the imitation ones too….so much cheaper. You have made your dish look just like the real thing :D
This is already good enough. Looks real and delicious :)
I bought a packet of imitation shark fins two years ago and it is still sitting in the freezer. Not sure what to do with. I think it is time to cook this soup for the coming CNY. Thanks for sharing it.
time to put it to good use :)
I’ve always been curious about shark’s fin soup, and I’m glad to hear there’s an alternative. The crab and mushrooms sound delicious in it!