Chinese vegetarian clear soup is a timeless classic that brings harmony and lightness to any meal. This delicate broth, infused with fresh vegetables and subtle seasonings, offers a nourishing, comforting experience without overwhelming the palate.
Whether you’re a vegetarian looking for a wholesome starter or simply craving a light and refreshing soup, this recipe is a perfect fit. It’s quick to prepare, uses simple ingredients, and highlights the natural flavors of the vegetables while maintaining a crystal-clear broth that is as beautiful as it is delicious.
In this blog post, I’ll guide you through crafting this elegant soup step-by-step, share some handy tips to elevate the flavor, and suggest variations to keep your taste buds intrigued. So, grab your ingredients, and let’s get started on making this soothing bowl of Chinese vegetarian clear soup!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Chinese vegetarian clear soup is a versatile and healthy option for any season. Its lightness makes it a wonderful palate cleanser or a gentle way to start your meal.
Rich in vitamins and minerals, the soup is packed with fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs that promote digestion and wellness.
What makes this recipe stand out is its simplicity and speed — it can be on your table in under 30 minutes. Plus, it’s completely customizable to your preference, whether you want to add tofu, mushrooms, or leafy greens.
The clear broth maintains the integrity of the ingredients’ flavors, making it a truly refreshing and satisfying dish.
Ingredients
- 6 cups vegetable broth (preferably homemade or low-sodium store-bought)
- 1 medium carrot, thinly sliced
- 1 small daikon radish, peeled and sliced into matchsticks
- 4-5 shiitake mushrooms, stemmed and thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup baby bok choy, chopped
- 1/2 cup snow peas, trimmed and halved
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece ginger, sliced thin
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (use tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
- 2 green onions, sliced thinly (for garnish)
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)
- Salt to taste
Equipment
- Large soup pot or stockpot
- Sharp knife for chopping vegetables
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
- Ladle for serving
- Soup bowls for presentation
Instructions
- Prepare the broth: Pour the vegetable broth into a large soup pot and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- Add aromatics: Add the sliced ginger and minced garlic to the simmering broth. Allow them to infuse the broth for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add firmer vegetables: Add the sliced carrot, daikon radish, and shiitake mushrooms. Let the soup simmer gently for 8-10 minutes until the vegetables start to soften but remain crisp.
- Season the broth: Stir in the soy sauce, sesame oil, and white pepper. Taste the broth and add salt if needed. Remember, soy sauce adds saltiness, so adjust carefully.
- Add delicate vegetables: Add the chopped baby bok choy and snow peas. These cook quickly, so simmer for another 2-3 minutes until they turn bright green and tender-crisp.
- Final touches: Remove the ginger slices from the soup. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with sliced green onions and fresh cilantro or parsley, if using.
- Serve warm: Enjoy your clear vegetarian soup as a light starter or alongside your favorite dishes.
Tips & Variations
“For an even richer flavor, simmer the broth with dried shiitake mushrooms or kombu seaweed before adding fresh vegetables.”
- Tofu addition: Add cubed firm tofu during the last 5 minutes of cooking for added protein and texture.
- Mushroom variety: Experiment with enoki or oyster mushrooms for a different umami twist.
- Spice it up: Include a few slices of fresh chili or a dash of chili oil for a gentle kick.
- Herbs: Garnish with fresh Thai basil or mint for a refreshing aroma.
- Clearer broth: For an exceptionally clear soup, strain the broth before adding vegetables.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Per Serving (1 cup) |
---|---|
Calories | 45 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 8 g |
Protein | 2 g |
Fat | 1.5 g |
Fiber | 2 g |
Sodium | 450 mg (varies with soy sauce) |
Vitamin A | 25% DV |
Vitamin C | 20% DV |
Serving Suggestions
This Chinese vegetarian clear soup pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Serve it as a light starter to a meal featuring steamed dumplings or vegetable stir-fries.
For a fuller meal, accompany it with steamed jasmine rice or a side of crispy spring rolls. It also complements hearty dishes like Bariatric Meatloaf Recipe or the refreshing flavors of Pickled Cherry Pepper Recipe.
If you enjoy exploring vegetarian dishes, be sure to try the Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe, which offers another vibrant way to celebrate vegetables.
Conclusion
Chinese vegetarian clear soup is a wonderful addition to any kitchen repertoire. Its simplicity, health benefits, and delightful flavors make it a go-to recipe for those seeking nourishment without heaviness.
The clean, clear broth acts as a perfect canvas for fresh vegetables and aromatic seasonings, creating a soup that is both soothing and satisfying.
This recipe proves that you don’t need complicated ingredients or techniques to make something truly special. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this soup will impress with its delicate balance and wholesome goodness.
So next time you’re craving something light yet flavorful, give this Chinese vegetarian clear soup a try—you won’t be disappointed!
📖 Recipe Card: Chinese Vegetarian Clear Soup
Description: A light and refreshing vegetarian clear soup with delicate flavors from fresh vegetables and tofu. Perfect as a starter or a healthy meal option.
Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT20M
Total Time: PT30M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup firm tofu, cubed
- 1 medium carrot, julienned
- 1/2 cup baby corn, sliced
- 1/2 cup shiitake mushrooms, sliced
- 1/2 cup bok choy, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Salt and white pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat sesame oil in a pot over medium heat.
- Add garlic and ginger, sauté until fragrant.
- Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
- Add carrots, baby corn, and mushrooms; simmer for 5 minutes.
- Add tofu and bok choy; cook for another 5 minutes.
- Season with soy sauce, salt, and white pepper.
- Garnish with green onions before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 90 kcal | Protein: 6 g | Fat: 3 g | Carbs: 10 g
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