Ways with Daikon/White Radish #1 Winter Beef Mushroom Ginger Daikon Soup

White carrot or daikon is an inexpensive and versatile ingredient that can add many twists and flavours to otherwise bland home cooked meals. 

This recipe is a winter soup using a good beef stock, ginger and peppercorns as the base. As white radish is considered cooling, it is essential to match it with some warming elements such as red meat, herb and spice.  Red wine enhances the aroma but it's optional. Coriander is recommended as a garnish for the soup as it has properties to soothe cough and sore throat caused by the cold. To avoid over heating and spiciness, reduce the amount of ginger and peppercorns. It's easy! 

Bring the beef stock to the boil. Add soaked shitake mushrooms and let it boil lightly. Then add in sliced daikon, peppercorn and ginger. Simmer for 10 minutes. Add a little salt and red wine according to preference. Top with coriander leaves. It's ready to be served. 

At the time of writing this, the weather is transiting from winter to spring. Do not be deceived by the apparent sunny feeling. The air is still cool and chilly.