Chinese Vegetarian Lotus Root Soup Recipe Made Easy

Chinese vegetarian lotus root soup is a comforting and nourishing dish that’s been cherished in traditional Chinese cuisine for centuries. This soup highlights the unique texture and subtle sweetness of lotus root, combined with an aromatic blend of herbs and vegetables that create a delicate yet flavorful broth.

Perfect for chilly days or whenever you crave a light meal, this soup is both wholesome and easy to prepare. Whether you’re a dedicated vegetarian or simply looking to add more plant-based meals to your diet, this recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy the health benefits and distinctive taste of lotus root.

In this blog post, I’ll guide you through a step-by-step recipe for making authentic Chinese vegetarian lotus root soup. From selecting fresh ingredients to tips on enhancing flavor, you’ll find everything you need to create this delicious and heartwarming soup in your own kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chinese vegetarian lotus root soup is a perfect blend of tradition and simplicity. Here’s why it’s a must-try:

• Rich in Nutrients: Lotus root is packed with dietary fiber, vitamin C, and potassium, making this soup a nutrient-dense option for your meals.
• Light and Refreshing: Unlike heavy cream-based soups, this broth is clear and gentle on the stomach, ideal for cleansing and detoxifying.
• Easy to Customize: You can easily add your favorite vegetables or herbs to tailor the flavor to your liking.
• Vegetarian and Vegan Friendly: This recipe uses no animal products, perfect for vegetarians and vegans seeking authentic Asian flavors.
• Comforting and Warming: The natural sweetness of lotus root combined with aromatic spices makes this soup both soothing and satisfying.

Ingredients

• 300g fresh lotus root (peeled and sliced)
• 1 large carrot (peeled and sliced)
• 100g shiitake mushrooms (soaked if dried, sliced)
• 1 small piece of dried tangerine peel (optional, for fragrance)
• 1 knob of ginger (about 2 inches, sliced)
• 4 cups vegetable broth (homemade or low-sodium store-bought)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• Salt to taste
• White pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish

Equipment

• Sharp chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Large soup pot or Dutch oven
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or ladle
• Strainer (optional, for rinsing lotus root)
• Bowl for soaking dried mushrooms (if using dried shiitake)

Instructions

1. Prepare the lotus root: Peel the lotus root carefully with a vegetable peeler. Slice it into thin rounds about 1/4 inch thick. Rinse the slices under cold water to remove excess starch and prevent discoloration.
2. Soak the mushrooms: If using dried shiitake mushrooms, soak them in warm water for 20-30 minutes until soft. Drain, squeeze out excess water, and slice thinly. If using fresh, simply slice.
3. Sauté aromatics: Heat the sesame oil in the soup pot over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sliced ginger, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
4. Add vegetables and broth: Add the sliced lotus root, carrots, shiitake mushrooms, and dried tangerine peel to the pot. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
5. Simmer the soup: Reduce heat to low and let the soup simmer gently for 45 minutes to 1 hour. This allows the lotus root to become tender and the flavors to meld beautifully.
6. Season the soup: Add soy sauce, salt, and white pepper to taste. Stir well and cook for another 5 minutes.
7. Remove aromatics: Take out the ginger slices and tangerine peel pieces before serving to avoid overpowering the broth.
8. Garnish and serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or green onions. Serve hot for a comforting meal.

Tips & Variations

Lotus root can oxidize quickly and turn brown when exposed to air. To prevent this, soak sliced lotus root in water with a splash of vinegar or lemon juice while prepping.

If you prefer a heartier soup, add firm tofu cubes or other root vegetables like daikon radish or taro.

For a touch of sweetness, add a few goji berries during the simmering process, which also add antioxidants.

To boost umami without animal products, include a small piece of kombu seaweed in the broth as it simmers, removing it before serving.

Try swapping shiitake mushrooms with enoki or oyster mushrooms for a different texture and flavor profile.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This lotus root soup pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice or brown rice for a complete meal. You can also serve it alongside light vegetable stir-fries or steamed buns to add more texture and flavor to your spread.

For a traditional experience, enjoy the soup with a side of pickled vegetables such as Pickled Cherry Pepper Recipe to add a tangy contrast.

Looking for more vegetarian recipes? Try the refreshing Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe or indulge in a sweet treat with our Peanut Butter Gelato Recipe.

Conclusion

Chinese vegetarian lotus root soup is a delightful recipe that balances simplicity with deep, comforting flavors. Its wholesome ingredients and clear broth make it a nourishing choice for anyone seeking a light yet satisfying meal.

With its health benefits and easy preparation, this soup is a wonderful addition to your culinary repertoire.

Whether you’re cooking for family, entertaining guests, or just enjoying a quiet night in, this dish offers warmth and comfort in every spoonful. Give it a try and discover how a humble root vegetable can transform into an elegant and delicious soup.

Don’t forget to explore our other recipes for more inspiration in the kitchen!

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