Asian Ginger Broth Recipe Vegetarian: Easy & Flavorful Guide

Updated On: October 4, 2025

When it comes to comforting, flavorful, and nourishing meals, nothing beats a warm bowl of Asian ginger broth. This vegetarian version is packed with fresh ginger, aromatic herbs, and umami-rich ingredients that come together to create a broth that’s both soothing and vibrant.

Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a starter for your dinner, or a healing bowl when you’re feeling under the weather, this broth delivers on all fronts. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare with simple pantry staples and fresh produce.

The ginger adds a spicy warmth and aids digestion, making this broth not only delicious but healthful as well.

In this post, I’ll guide you through making this delightful Asian ginger broth from scratch, share some tips and variations to customize it, and suggest delicious ways to serve it. If you love warm bowls of goodness and want a vegetarian recipe that’s both quick and satisfying, this is the one to try!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Asian ginger broth is a perfect blend of simplicity and flavor. It’s:

  • Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep.
  • Vegetarian and vegan-friendly: Uses plant-based ingredients without sacrificing depth of flavor.
  • Nutritious: Loaded with fresh ginger, garlic, and vegetables that boost your immune system.
  • Versatile: Use it as a base for noodle soups, a sipping broth, or a light meal on its own.
  • Customizable: Easily add your favorite vegetables, tofu, or noodles to make it your own.

Ingredients

  • 6 cups vegetable broth (low sodium preferred)
  • 3-inch piece fresh ginger, sliced thinly
  • 3 cloves garlic, smashed
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
  • 1 large carrot, peeled and sliced
  • 3 green onions, chopped (white and green parts separated)
  • 1 cup shiitake mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 cup baby spinach or bok choy leaves
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro or Thai basil for garnish

Equipment

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Ladle
  • Strainer (optional, if you want a clear broth)

Instructions

  1. Prepare your ingredients: Wash and slice the ginger, peel and smash the garlic cloves, chop the carrots, green onions, and mushrooms, and rinse the spinach or bok choy leaves.
  2. Heat the pot: Place your large pot over medium heat and add the toasted sesame oil. Once hot, add the white parts of the green onions, ginger slices, and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
  3. Add broth and flavorings: Pour in the vegetable broth, then add soy sauce, rice vinegar, and carrot slices. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
  4. Simmer: Reduce heat and let the broth simmer for 15-20 minutes. This allows the ginger and garlic flavors to infuse deeply into the broth.
  5. Add mushrooms and greens: Stir in the sliced shiitake mushrooms and baby spinach or bok choy. Simmer for another 5 minutes until the mushrooms are tender and greens wilted.
  6. Season: Taste the broth and add salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Adjust the soy sauce or vinegar to balance saltiness and acidity as desired.
  7. Finish and serve: Remove the ginger slices and garlic pieces if you prefer a clearer broth. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with green parts of the green onions and fresh cilantro or Thai basil.

Tips & Variations

“For a richer broth, add a piece of kombu (dried kelp) during simmering, then remove before serving.”

  • Tofu addition: Add cubed firm tofu in the last 5 minutes of cooking for added protein.
  • Noodle bowl: Serve over cooked rice noodles or soba for a filling meal.
  • Vegetable variations: Add sliced daikon radish, baby corn, or snap peas for extra crunch and nutrition.
  • Spice it up: Incorporate a sliced fresh chili or a dash of chili oil for heat.
  • Make it gluten-free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure broth is gluten-free.
  • Storage: This broth keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently to preserve flavors.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per Serving (1.5 cups)
Calories 70
Protein 3g
Fat 2g
Carbohydrates 10g
Fiber 2g
Sodium 450mg (varies with soy sauce)
Vitamin A 25% DV
Vitamin C 10% DV

Serving Suggestions

This Asian ginger broth shines on its own as a light, warming soup. However, you can elevate it into a hearty meal by pairing it or adding:

  • Steamed jasmine rice or sticky rice on the side
  • Soft tofu cubes and a handful of cooked rice noodles for a quick noodle soup
  • Fresh herbs such as cilantro, Thai basil, or mint to brighten flavors
  • Crunchy toppings like toasted sesame seeds, chopped peanuts, or fried shallots
  • For a protein boost, add sliced tempeh or edamame beans

If you enjoy this broth and want to explore more comforting dishes, check out my Half Runner Beans Recipe for a fresh vegetable side, or treat your sweet tooth with the Glazed Twist Donut Recipe for an indulgent dessert.

Conclusion

Making a homemade Asian ginger broth is a wonderful way to fill your kitchen with enticing aromas while nourishing your body with clean, plant-based ingredients. This vegetarian recipe strikes the perfect balance between warming spice and delicate vegetable flavors.

It’s incredibly versatile, quick to prepare, and can be tailored to your taste preferences and dietary needs.

Whether you sip it as a restorative tonic, use it as a base for your favorite noodle bowls, or add your choice of fresh vegetables and tofu, this broth will become a staple in your recipe collection. Don’t forget to experiment with the tips and variations to keep it exciting every time.

For more cozy and wholesome recipes, you might also enjoy the Grandma’S Old Fashioned Bread Pudding With Vanilla Sauce Recipe, a comforting dessert to round off your meal beautifully.

📖 Recipe Card: Asian Ginger Broth Recipe Vegetarian

Description: A flavorful and warming vegetarian broth infused with fresh ginger and aromatic spices. Perfect as a base for soups or enjoyed on its own.

Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT30M
Total Time: PT40M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 6 cups vegetable broth
  • 2-inch piece fresh ginger, sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, smashed
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 small carrot, sliced
  • 3 green onions, chopped
  • 4 dried shiitake mushrooms
  • 1 star anise
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, combine vegetable broth, ginger, garlic, carrot, shiitake mushrooms, and star anise.
  2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25 minutes.
  3. Remove solids by straining the broth.
  4. Stir in soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
  5. Adjust salt to taste and reheat if necessary.
  6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and fresh cilantro.

Nutrition: Calories: 60 kcal | Protein: 2 g | Fat: 1 g | Carbs: 8 g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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