Are you looking for a delicious and comforting meal that’s also packed with protein? Look no further than tofu soup! Tofu, when combined with aromatic spices and herbs, can create a rich and satisfying broth that warms the soul. In this article, we’ll explore 19 flavorful tofu soup recipes from around the world, each one showcasing the versatility of this popular plant-based ingredient.
From spicy Korean-inspired soups to creamy coconut-based broths, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re a long-time tofu fan or just looking for a new and exciting meal idea, we’ve got you covered with our collection of tasty and easy-to-make tofu soup recipes.
Spicy Korean Soft Tofu Soup
Warm up with this spicy and comforting soup that combines the creamy texture of soft tofu with the bold flavors of Korean chili flakes (gochugaru).
Ingredients:
– 1 block of extra-soft silken tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon of grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon of Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup of water
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until the onion is translucent.
2. Add the chili flakes and cook for 1 minute.
3. Pour in the broth and water; bring to a simmer.
4. Add the tofu cubes and cook for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Miso Tofu Soup with Vegetables
This comforting and flavorful soup combines tender tofu, savory miso paste, and a medley of colorful vegetables for a nutritious and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, carrots, mushrooms)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons white miso paste
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat sesame oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add mixed vegetables; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add tofu, vegetable broth, miso paste, and soy sauce. Stir to combine.
5. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Coconut Tofu Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of creamy coconut milk and tender tofu, making it a great option for a quick and satisfying meal. With its subtle sweetness and hint of spice, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of firm tofu, drained and cubed
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon of grated ginger
– 1 can of full-fat coconut milk
– 4 cups of vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon of curry powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the cubed tofu and cook for an additional minute.
3. Pour in the coconut milk, broth, and curry powder. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let soup cook for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Thai-Inspired Lemongrass Tofu Soup
This aromatic soup combines the creamy richness of tofu with the bold flavors of Thailand, featuring lemongrass and galangal for a truly authentic taste experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised and chopped
– 2 inches galangal, peeled and sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the lemongrass, galangal, and garlic; cook until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
2. Add the tofu and cook until lightly browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Pour in the broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 10-12 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Stir in the coconut milk and soy sauce; season with salt, pepper, and ginger.
5. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes before serving. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Classic Japanese Tofu and Wakame Soup
This comforting soup is a staple of Japanese cuisine, with the tender bite of wakame seaweed complemented by the creamy texture of silken tofu. A simple and nutritious meal that’s perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 block silken tofu, drained and cut into small pieces
– 2 cups dashi broth (or vegetable broth)
– 1 cup wakame seaweed (dried or fresh)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sake (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the dashi broth to a simmer in a large pot.
2. Add the wakame seaweed and cook according to package instructions or until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the silken tofu and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until heated through.
4. Stir in soy sauce and sake (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Kimchi Tofu Soup
This Korean-inspired soup combines the creamy richness of silken tofu with the bold flavors of spicy kimchi and a savory broth, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of firm silken tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 cups of vegetable or chicken broth
– 1/4 cup of kimchi, chopped (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon of grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, thinly sliced, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine broth, kimchi, soy sauce, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a simmer.
2. Reduce heat to low and add tofu. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Ladle into bowls and garnish with scallions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Herbal Tofu and Mushroom Soup
Soothe your senses with this comforting and flavorful soup, perfect for a cozy evening or a quick lunch. This recipe combines the creamy texture of tofu with the earthy flavors of mushrooms, all infused with aromatic herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cubed
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 7-8 minutes.
3. Stir in the thyme and rosemary. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low; add the cubed tofu. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the soup has reached your desired consistency.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tom Yum Tofu Soup
Tom Yum soup is a popular Thai dish that combines the flavors of sour lemons, spicy chilies, and savory tofu. This recipe adds a twist by incorporating firm tofu for a protein-packed meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 cups of vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons of Tom Yum paste
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon of grated ginger
– 1/4 cup of freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 cups of water
– 1 tablespoon of fish sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine vegetable broth, Tom Yum paste, garlic, ginger, and lime juice. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
2. Add tofu, fish sauce (if using), salt, and pepper. Simmer for an additional 3-4 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Vegan Tofu Noodle Soup
Cozy up with a warm and comforting bowl of vegan tofu noodle soup, perfect for a chilly day or a quick lunch. This recipe is easy to make and packed with protein-rich tofu and nutritious vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup noodles (such as soba or rice noodles)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the cubed tofu, vegetable broth, noodles, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the noodles are cooked through.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Ginger and Garlic Tofu Soup
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup that combines the spices of ginger and garlic with tender tofu. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cubed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 inches fresh ginger, grated
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the sesame oil over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger; sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add the cubed tofu and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 5 minutes.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth and soy sauce; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 15-20 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Curry Tofu Soup with Spinach
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup that combines the richness of curry with the creaminess of coconut milk and the nutty flavor of spinach. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy meal that’s also packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 bunch fresh spinach leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add cumin, curry powder, and tofu; cook for 1 minute.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes, coconut milk, and broth. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low; let soup simmer for 10-12 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
5. Stir in spinach leaves; cook until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Sweet Corn and Tofu Soup
This creamy and comforting soup is a perfect blend of sweet corn and savory tofu, making it an ideal meal for any time of the year. With its smooth texture and subtle flavors, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup diced fresh sweet corn
– 1/2 cup cubed firm tofu
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little water until softened.
2. Add the corn, tofu, vegetable broth, and basil. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Hot and Sour Tofu Soup
This classic Chinese-inspired soup is a staple of Sichuan cuisine, combining the perfect balance of spicy, sour, and savory flavors. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create this comforting and rejuvenating soup to warm up your senses.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup water
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and ginger; cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add tofu, broth, water, soy sauce, vinegar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tofu and Seaweed Soup
A comforting and nutritious soup that combines the creaminess of tofu with the umami flavor of seaweed, perfect for a quick and easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of firm or extra-firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons of sesame oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 4 cups of vegetable broth
– 1 cup of dried wakame seaweed (or other type of seaweed)
– 1 teaspoon of soy sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the sesame oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the cubed tofu and cook until lightly browned, about 5 minutes.
5. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
6. Add the dried seaweed and cook for 10-15 minutes or until the seaweed is rehydrated and tender.
7. Season with soy sauce (if using) and salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions or sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cabbage and Tofu Soup
This hearty and comforting soup is a great way to warm up on a chilly day. With its rich flavor and tender texture, it’s perfect for a quick and easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium cabbage, chopped
– 1 block of firm tofu, drained and cubed
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 4 cups of vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon of soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the cubed tofu and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the chopped cabbage, garlic, vegetable broth, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lentil and Tofu Soup
This comforting soup is a great way to warm up on a chilly day, packed with protein-rich lentils and tofu, and filled with aromatic spices. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 block firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, tofu, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Tofu and Pumpkin Soup
Cozy up with this creamy and comforting soup that combines the nutty flavor of pumpkin with the tender texture of tofu.
Ingredients:
– 1 small pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and chopped
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cubed
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little water until softened.
2. Add the chopped pumpkin, vegetable broth, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the pumpkin is tender.
3. Stir in the cubed tofu and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Use an immersion blender (or transfer the soup to a blender in batches) to puree the soup until smooth.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spicy Szechuan Tofu Soup
This flavorful and spicy soup is a staple of Szechuan cuisine, featuring tender tofu and a rich, numbing broth. Perfect for warming up on a chilly day or as a pick-me-up any time.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup Szechuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1/4 cup chili bean paste (doubanjiang)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 cups water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and ginger; stir-fry until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add tofu and cook until golden, about 5 minutes.
4. Add Szechuan peppercorns, chili bean paste, broth, and water.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until soup has thickened slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tofu and Bok Choy Soup
This simple soup is a great way to showcase the flavors of tofu and bok choy, with a hint of ginger and garlic. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small pieces
– 2 bunches bok choy, cleaned and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the sesame oil over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and ginger; cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the bok choy and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the tofu, vegetable broth, and soy sauce. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 10-12 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Summary
Get ready to slurp up some deliciousness with these 19 flavorful tofu soup recipes! From spicy Korean soft tofu soup to creamy coconut tofu soup, and from classic Japanese wakame soup to vegan-friendly noodle soup, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting and creamy or bold and spicy, this collection of recipes has got you covered. Each dish is packed with nutritious ingredients and plenty of flavor. So go ahead, grab a spoon, and dive into these tasty tofu soups!
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