Chinese Vege Soup Recipe Easy and Delicious to Make

Updated On: October 8, 2025

Chinese vegetable soup is a comforting, nourishing, and incredibly versatile dish that has graced dinner tables for centuries. This humble soup combines fresh, vibrant vegetables with a delicate broth, resulting in a light yet flavorful meal perfect for any season.

Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a healthy appetizer, or a soothing bowl to warm you up on a chilly evening, this recipe is a fantastic go-to. It’s easy to prepare, packed with nutrients, and can be customized with your favorite veggies and seasonings.

In this blog post, I’ll walk you through a simple yet authentic Chinese vegetable soup recipe that you can easily make at home. Plus, I’ll share tips on ingredient swaps, variations to suit your taste, and even some ideas on how to serve it for maximum enjoyment.

Let’s dive in and bring a touch of Chinese culinary magic to your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chinese vegetable soup is not only delicious but also incredibly healthy. It’s low in calories, full of antioxidants, and provides a great way to sneak more vegetables into your diet.

The broth is light and flavorful, enhanced with garlic, ginger, and a splash of soy sauce, making it both comforting and invigorating.

The recipe is quick to make, perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a nourishing meal in a pinch. Plus, it’s very adaptable — swap in whatever fresh vegetables you have on hand, or add tofu and mushrooms for extra protein and umami.

Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or just looking to eat lighter, this soup fits the bill beautifully. It also pairs perfectly with other dishes, making it a great starter or a light main course.

For more hearty meal ideas, you might enjoy checking out my Bariatric Meatloaf Recipe or the vibrant Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe.

Ingredients

  • 6 cups vegetable broth (low sodium preferred)
  • 1 cup napa cabbage, chopped
  • 1 cup bok choy, chopped
  • 1 medium carrot, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup shiitake mushrooms, sliced
  • 1/2 cup snow peas, trimmed
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and grated
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten free)
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 2 green onions, sliced thinly
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Optional: 1/2 cup firm tofu, cubed
  • Optional: 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, for a slight tang

Equipment

  • Large soup pot or Dutch oven
  • Cutting board and sharp knife
  • Grater or microplane (for ginger)
  • Ladle for serving
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Soup bowls for serving

Instructions

  1. Prepare your ingredients. Wash and chop all vegetables as indicated. Mince the garlic and grate the ginger. If using tofu, drain and cube it into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Heat the pot. Place your soup pot on medium heat and add the sesame oil. Once warmed, add the minced garlic and grated ginger, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
  3. Add the broth. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring it to a gentle boil.
  4. Add vegetables. Add the carrots, shiitake mushrooms, and snow peas to the boiling broth. Let these simmer for 5 minutes to start softening.
  5. Introduce leafy greens and tofu. Stir in the napa cabbage, bok choy, and tofu cubes (if using). Continue to simmer for another 3-4 minutes until the greens are wilted but still vibrant.
  6. Season the soup. Add the soy sauce and optionally the rice vinegar. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed.
  7. Finish and serve. Turn off the heat and sprinkle the sliced green onions on top. Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy immediately.

Tips & Variations

“Using fresh, seasonal vegetables will elevate the flavor of your soup immensely. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different greens like spinach, kale, or mustard greens!”

Here are a few ideas to customize your Chinese vegetable soup:

  • Add protein: Swap tofu for cooked shredded chicken or shrimp for a non-vegetarian option.
  • Make it spicy: Add a dash of chili oil or fresh sliced chili peppers for some heat.
  • Thicken the broth: Mix 1 tsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp water and stir into the simmering soup for a heartier texture.
  • Boost umami: Include a splash of mushroom soy sauce or a teaspoon of miso paste.
  • Use dried mushrooms: Soak dried shiitake mushrooms in warm water for 20 minutes, then slice and use the soaking liquid as part of your broth for extra depth.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per Serving (1 bowl)
Calories 85
Protein 4g
Carbohydrates 12g
Fiber 3g
Fat 2g
Sodium 550mg
Vitamin A 70% DV
Vitamin C 60% DV

Serving Suggestions

This soup shines as a light starter before a larger meal or as a wholesome lunch on its own. For a more filling option, serve it alongside steamed jasmine rice or brown rice and a side of spring rolls.

If you want to create a full Chinese-inspired feast, try pairing it with dishes like stir-fried vegetables or dumplings. For a delightful sweet treat after your meal, check out the Peanut Butter Gelato Recipe for a creamy dessert that balances the meal perfectly.

Conclusion

Chinese vegetable soup is a beautiful blend of simplicity and flavor. Its quick preparation, health benefits, and adaptability make it a kitchen staple for many.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and forgiving, letting the natural freshness of the vegetables shine through.

By making this soup, you not only enjoy a nourishing bowl full of vitamins but also embrace a tradition of wholesome cooking that’s been cherished for generations. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the ingredients and seasonings to make it truly your own.

For more delicious and diverse recipes, be sure to explore my other favorites like the Pickled Cherry Pepper Recipe or the comforting Peda Recipe Ricotta Cheese. Happy cooking and bon appétit!

📖 Recipe Card: Chinese Vege Soup

Description: A light and flavorful vegetable soup inspired by Chinese cuisine. Perfect for a healthy and warming meal.

Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT20M
Total Time: PT30M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup bok choy, chopped
  • 1/2 cup shiitake mushrooms, sliced
  • 1/2 cup carrots, julienned
  • 1/2 cup snow peas, trimmed
  • 1/4 cup bamboo shoots, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 green onion, sliced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat sesame oil in a pot over medium heat.
  2. Add garlic and ginger; sauté until fragrant.
  3. Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
  4. Add carrots, mushrooms, and bamboo shoots; simmer for 5 minutes.
  5. Add bok choy and snow peas; cook for another 3-4 minutes.
  6. Stir in soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
  7. Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onion.
  8. Serve hot.

Nutrition: Calories: 90 kcal | Protein: 3 g | Fat: 3 g | Carbs: 12 g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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