Instructions: Trim the ends of the marrow or courgettes and if you are using marrow remove the seeds.

Cut into 1cm cubes.

Bring the stock to a boil in a large pot.

Add the ham or bacon marrow or courgettes and all the other ingredients.

Simmer the soup uncovered for 15 minutes.

Add the sesame oil and give it a good stir.

Serve the soup immediately in individual bowls or in a large soup tureen.

Although courgettes and marrows are not available in China. there are many similar members of the same family which are used in Chinese cookery. This is an adaptation of a traditional recipe which calls for hairy melon or Chinese marrow which is much more appetising than it sounds. The exterior of Chinese marrow is fuzzy and hairy rather like a peach hence its name. I think that marrow tastes very similar and makes an excellent alternative. This is basically a clear soup. It goes well with Sweet and Sour Pork and Stirfried Spinach with Garlic (qv).

Serves 4

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