Tofu and Vegetable Soup

Warm, nourishing, and incredibly light, this Tofu and Vegetable Soup is the ultimate comfort dish. Inspired by traditional Asian flavors, it balances the earthy notes of shiitake mushrooms with the zing of fresh ginger and garlic, creating a delicate clear broth that highlights the natural sweetness of the vibrant vegetables.

Pin It

The star of this soup is the silken tofu, which offers a melt-in-the-mouth texture that contrasts beautifully with the crisp-tender bite of julienned carrots and baby bok choy. It is a gentle yet satisfying meal that is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a light starter.

Ingredients

• Broth: 1.5 liters low-sodium vegetable broth, 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free), 1 tablespoon fresh ginger (thinly sliced), 2 cloves garlic (minced), 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• Vegetables: 1 medium carrot (peeled and julienned), 100 g shiitake mushrooms (sliced), 100 g baby bok choy (chopped), 1 small red bell pepper (thinly sliced), 2 spring onions (sliced)
• Tofu: 300 g silken tofu (cubed)
• Garnish (optional): Fresh cilantro leaves, 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds, lime wedges

Instructions

1. Sauté Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add garlic and ginger, sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

2. Simmer Broth

Pour in the vegetable broth and soy sauce. Bring to a gentle simmer.

3. Add Hardy Vegetables

Add carrot, shiitake mushrooms, and bell pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.

4. Add Greens

Add bok choy and spring onions, cook for another 2-3 minutes until vegetables are just tender.

5. Incorporate Tofu

Gently add silken tofu cubes. Simmer for an additional 2 minutes, being careful not to break up the tofu.

6. Adjust Seasoning

Taste and adjust seasoning with more soy sauce if needed.

7. Garnish and Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with cilantro, sesame seeds, and a squeeze of lime if desired. Serve hot.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For a soup with more structural texture, you can use firm tofu instead of silken tofu. Always handle the tofu gently to maintain the shape of the cubes throughout the final simmering stage.

Varianten und Anpassungen

Feel free to experiment by adding snow peas, napa cabbage, or enoki mushrooms for extra variety. If you prefer a spicy kick, stir in a dash of chili oil or some sliced fresh chili before serving.

Serviervorschläge

Ladle the hot soup into rustic ceramic bowls and top with fresh cilantro, toasted sesame seeds, and a fresh squeeze of lime to brighten the flavors.

Pin It

This Tofu and Vegetable Soup is a testament to how simple ingredients can create a deeply satisfying and elegant dish. Whether you need a warm hug in a bowl or a nutritious light meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Questions & Answers

→ What type of tofu works best for this soup?

Silken tofu is recommended for its delicate, creamy texture that absorbs the broth flavors beautifully. However, firm tofu can be substituted if you prefer more substantial cubes that hold their shape better.

→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, the broth and vegetables can be prepared in advance. However, add the silken tofu just before serving to prevent it from breaking apart. Store components separately and combine when reheating.

→ How can I add more protein?

Consider adding edamame, mung beans, or rice noodles to increase protein content. You can also serve alongside a protein-rich main dish for a complete meal.

→ What vegetables can I substitute?

Snap peas, napa cabbage, enoki mushrooms, spinach, or thinly sliced zucchini work well. The soup is versatile and adapts to whatever fresh vegetables you have available.

→ Is this soup spicy?

The base version is mild and comforting. For heat, add chili oil, sliced fresh chilies, or sriracha when serving. Adjust the spice level to your preference.