Best Vegetarian Manchow Soup Recipe for Cozy Evenings

Updated On: October 7, 2025

Manchow soup is a beloved Indo-Chinese classic, famous for its spicy, tangy, and hearty flavors. This best vegetarian Manchow soup recipe brings all those exciting elements together in a bowl that is not only comforting but also packed with vibrant vegetables and aromatic spices.

Whether you’re craving a warming starter on a chilly evening or a flavorful soup to impress your guests, this recipe hits all the right notes. The rich broth, combined with crunchy veggies and a perfect hit of garlic and ginger, makes it a go-to for vegetarians and soup lovers alike.

Plus, it’s easy to customize, quick to make, and utterly delicious!

In this post, I’ll guide you through every step to create the perfect bowl of vegetarian Manchow soup at home. From the fresh ingredients to the final garnish of crispy fried noodles, get ready to enjoy a delightful culinary experience that’s both healthy and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetarian Manchow soup is a fantastic blend of flavors and textures, offering a hearty and spicy soup that’s incredibly satisfying without any meat. Here’s why it stands out:

  • Rich and Flavorful Broth: The combination of soy sauce, chili sauce, and fresh aromatics creates a depth of flavor that’s utterly addictive.
  • Nutritious and Colorful: Loaded with fresh vegetables like carrots, cabbage, and mushrooms, it’s a healthy choice packed with vitamins and fiber.
  • Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute cravings.
  • Customizable Heat: Adjust the chili levels to suit your spice tolerance, from mild to fiery hot.
  • Vegetarian and Vegan Friendly: This soup is free from any animal products, making it accessible to a wide range of diets.

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 tablespoon finely chopped garlic
  • 1 tablespoon finely chopped ginger
  • 2 green chilies, finely chopped (optional)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 1 cup finely chopped cabbage
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped carrots
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped capsicum (bell pepper)
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped mushrooms
  • 4 cups vegetable broth or water
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon chili sauce (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon tomato ketchup
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper powder
  • 2 tablespoons cornflour (cornstarch) mixed with 1/4 cup water
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped spring onions (green parts)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh coriander (cilantro)
  • Fried crispy noodles for garnish

Equipment

  • Large soup pot or deep pan
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Small bowl for cornflour slurry
  • Ladle
  • Serving bowls

Instructions

  1. Prepare the vegetables: Wash and finely chop all the vegetables. Keep them ready for quick cooking.
  2. Heat oil in a large pot: Use a medium-high flame and add the vegetable oil. Once hot, add the chopped garlic, ginger, and green chilies. Sauté until fragrant and light golden.
  3. Add onions: Toss in the finely chopped onions and cook until translucent and soft, about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Add the chopped vegetables: Add cabbage, carrots, capsicum, and mushrooms. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes until they soften but still retain a slight crunch. This layering keeps the soup texturally interesting.
  5. Add the sauces and spices: Pour in the soy sauce, chili sauce, and tomato ketchup. Mix well to coat the vegetables evenly.
  6. Pour in the broth: Add the vegetable broth or water and bring the mixture to a boil. Let it simmer for about 8-10 minutes so the vegetables soak up the flavors.
  7. Thicken the soup: Stir the cornflour slurry to recombine, then slowly pour it into the simmering soup while stirring continuously. This will thicken the broth to a nice, slightly viscous consistency.
  8. Season the soup: Add black pepper powder and salt to taste. Give it a final stir and cook for another 2 minutes.
  9. Finish with fresh herbs: Turn off the heat, then add chopped spring onions and coriander. These fresh ingredients brighten the soup just before serving.
  10. Serve hot: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish generously with crispy fried noodles on top for that classic crunch.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor depth, you can add a teaspoon of finely chopped green bell peppers or baby corn.

If you prefer a vegan option, ensure your chili sauce and ketchup are free from animal-derived ingredients.

Looking for a gluten-free version? Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce and gluten-free crispy noodles.

To make it more filling, add cooked tofu cubes or boiled noodles directly into the soup before serving.

For a smoky twist, add a few drops of smoked chili oil or a pinch of smoked paprika.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per Serving
Calories 150 kcal
Protein 4 g
Carbohydrates 22 g
Fat 5 g
Fiber 4 g
Sodium 700 mg

Serving Suggestions

Manchow soup is wonderfully versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes. Serve it as a starter or a light main course.

Here are some ideas to complete your meal:

  • Enjoy with crispy fried spring rolls or vegetable momos for a full Indo-Chinese experience.
  • A side of steamed jasmine rice or fried rice complements the soup’s spicy broth.
  • For a comforting meal, pair it with garlic naan or soft dinner rolls to soak up the flavors.
  • If you want to explore more soups, check out our Clam Chowder San Francisco Recipe for a rich seafood alternative.

Conclusion

This vegetarian Manchow soup recipe is a delightful way to enjoy the bold and vibrant flavors of Indo-Chinese cuisine without meat. It’s packed with fresh vegetables, fragrant spices, and the perfect balance of heat and tang, making it a satisfying meal for any time of the year.

The ease of preparation and quick cooking time mean you can whip this up even on your busiest days, impressing family or friends with minimal fuss.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is approachable and adaptable to your preferences. Don’t forget to garnish with crispy noodles for that authentic crunch!

If you love experimenting with comforting dishes, you might also enjoy our Classico Sun Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce Recipe or treat yourself afterward with the incredible Chocolate Heaven Cake Recipe.

Give this recipe a try and savor every spoonful of this delicious vegetarian Manchow soup – a perfect bowl of warmth, flavor, and nutrition!

📖 Recipe Card: Best Vegetarian Manchow Soup

Description: A spicy and flavorful Indo-Chinese soup loaded with fresh vegetables and aromatic spices. Perfect as a starter or a comforting meal on a chilly day.

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT25M
Total Time: PT40M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, beans, cabbage, finely chopped)
  • 1/2 cup mushrooms, finely chopped
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 inch ginger, minced
  • 2 green chilies, finely chopped
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp chili sauce
  • 1 tbsp cornflour mixed with 3 tbsp water
  • 2 tbsp oil
  • Salt to taste
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper powder
  • 2 spring onions, chopped (for garnish)
  • 1 tbsp chopped coriander leaves (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Heat oil in a pan and sauté garlic, ginger, and green chilies until fragrant.
  2. Add onions and cook until translucent.
  3. Add mixed vegetables and mushrooms, cook for 5 minutes.
  4. Pour in vegetable broth, soy sauce, and chili sauce; bring to a boil.
  5. Slowly add cornflour slurry while stirring to thicken the soup.
  6. Season with salt and black pepper powder.
  7. Simmer the soup for 5 minutes until vegetables are tender.
  8. Garnish with spring onions and coriander leaves before serving.

Nutrition: Calories: 120 kcal | Protein: 4 g | Fat: 3 g | Carbs: 20 g

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Marta K

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