As the weather starts to warm up, there’s nothing quite like a refreshing bowl of clear soup to quench your thirst and satisfy your taste buds. In this article, we’re going to explore 20 delightful and easy-to-make clear soup recipes from around the world. From classic Japanese onion soup to spicy Vietnamese pho bo, each recipe is carefully crafted to showcase the beauty of simplicity and flavor.
Whether you’re in the mood for something light and brothy or hearty and filling, these clear soups are sure to hit the spot. In this article, we’ll take a culinary journey across continents, exploring different cultures and cuisines through their signature soup recipes. So sit back, relax, and get ready to slurp your way to a world of flavors!
Classic Japanese Clear Onion Soup
This traditional Japanese soup, known as “Negi Gratin” or “Onion White Soup,” is a light and refreshing side dish that highlights the sweetness of caramelized onions. It’s a simple yet elegant addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cups dashi broth (or chicken broth)
– 1/4 cup sake (or dry white wine)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, cook the sliced onions over low heat for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are caramelized and golden brown.
2. Add the dashi broth, sake, soy sauce, sugar, salt, and pepper to the saucepan. Bring to a simmer.
3. Reduce the heat to very low and let it cook for 10-15 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
4. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. If desired, add rice vinegar to balance the sweetness.
5. Serve hot, garnished with thinly sliced green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-60 minutes
Vietnamese Pho Bo Clear Beef Noodle Soup
Pho Bo is a classic Vietnamese dish that is both comforting and flavorful. This clear beef noodle soup recipe is a simplified version of the traditional Pho, using beef bones for a rich broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef bones (preferably oxtail or chuck)
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 8 ounces rice noodles
– Thinly sliced beef (rare steak or brisket), cooked to desired doneness
– Fresh herbs (such as basil, mint, and cilantro) for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine beef bones, broth, fish sauce, onion, garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, and salt.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
3. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions.
4. Slice cooked beef into thin strips.
5. Serve hot noodle soup with sliced beef, garnished with fresh herbs.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Chinese Egg Drop Clear Soup
This classic Chinese soup recipe is a staple of Cantonese cuisine, characterized by its crystal-clear broth and soft, silky egg droplets.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt to taste
– Scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together eggs and 1/4 cup water until smooth.
2. Bring chicken broth to a simmer in a large pot over medium heat.
3. Gradually add cornstarch mixture to the broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
4. Pour in egg mixture and cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute, stirring gently with a spoon.
5. Continue cooking until eggs are cooked through and form soft, silky droplets (about 2-3 minutes).
6. Remove from heat and stir in sesame oil. Season with salt to taste.
7. Ladle into bowls and garnish with scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Thai Clear Tom Yum Soup
This classic Thai soup is a flavorful and refreshing meal option, perfect for any time of year. With its clear broth and variety of ingredients, it’s a dish that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon tom yum paste
– 1/2 cup mixed mushrooms (such as button and shiitake)
– 1/2 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and ginger; cook until fragrant, 1 minute.
3. Add tom yum paste; cook, stirring constantly, 1 minute.
4. Pour in broth; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat; add mushrooms and bell pepper.
6. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Simple Clear Chicken Consommé
This classic French consommé is a masterclass in clarity and simplicity, allowing the natural flavors of chicken and vegetables to shine through. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be rewarded with a crystal-clear broth perfect for sipping on its own or serving as a base for soups and sauces.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken, broth, onion, garlic, carrots, and celery.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and let steep for 10-15 minutes.
4. Strain the consommé through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean pot, discarding solids.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Clear Miso Soup with Tofu and Wakame
A light and nourishing Japanese-inspired soup that combines the creamy richness of miso paste with the tender texture of wakame seaweed and firm tofu.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons white miso paste
– 1/4 cup cubed firm tofu
– 1/4 cup sliced wakame seaweed
– 2 green onions, thinly sliced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine vegetable broth and miso paste. Whisk until the miso is fully dissolved.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Add cubed tofu and cook for 3-4 minutes or until lightly browned.
4. Stir in sliced wakame seaweed and cook for an additional minute.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning with soy sauce, salt, and pepper if desired.
6. Serve hot, garnished with thinly sliced green onions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Russian Clear Borscht
A classic Russian soup that’s light, refreshing, and perfect for any occasion. This clear borscht is a staple in many Russian households, made with a simple combination of vegetables, herbs, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and grated
– 1 large beetroot, peeled and grated
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 tablespoons white vinegar
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh dill, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the grated carrots and beetroot, cooking for an additional 5 minutes or until they start to soften.
3. Add the garlic, beef broth, vinegar, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh dill if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Clear Mushroom and Ginger Soup
This recipe is a perfect blend of earthy mushrooms and spicy ginger, creating a comforting and refreshing soup that’s easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
– 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 grated ginger and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Pour in the broth, wine (if using), soy sauce, and salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the soup has reduced slightly and the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Clear Seafood Soup with Lemongrass
A refreshing and light seafood soup that highlights the flavors of lemongrass, perfect for a warm evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, mussels)
– 4 cups fish stock
– 1 stalk lemongrass, bruised
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine seafood, fish stock, lemongrass, onion, and garlic.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Strain the soup through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean pot, discarding solids.
4. Add coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer the soup for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
6. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Japanese Clear Dashi Soup with Vegetables
This light and refreshing soup is a staple of Japanese cuisine, made with a dashi broth that’s rich in umami flavor. Serve it as a side dish or enjoy it on its own for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 cup kombu seaweed (dried)
– 1/4 cup katsuobushi flakes (dried bonito fish)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sake or dry white wine (optional)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as bok choy, carrots, and shiitake mushrooms)
– Salt to taste
– Fresh scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine water and kombu seaweed. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
2. Add katsuobushi flakes and continue to simmer for another 5 minutes.
3. Strain the dashi broth through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean pot, discarding solids.
4. Add soy sauce, sake or wine (if using), garlic, and onion. Simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions (if desired). Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Clear Spinach and Tofu Soup
This light and refreshing soup is perfect for a warm evening or a comforting pick-me-up any time of the year. With its delicate flavor and silky texture, it’s sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine vegetable broth, water, and soy sauce (if using). Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Add tofu cubes and cook for 3-4 minutes or until slightly tender.
3. Stir in fresh spinach leaves and let them wilt into the liquid.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional spinach leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Clear Wonton Soup
A light and refreshing Chinese soup, Clear Wonton Soup is a staple dish that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of wontons (about 20-24 pieces)
– 4 cups of chicken broth
– 2 cups of water
– 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons of sesame oil
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon of grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken broth, water, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
3. Add the wontons to the pot and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes or until they float to the surface.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Clear Hot and Sour Soup
This refreshing Chinese-inspired soup is a perfect pick-me-up any time of the year. With its harmonious balance of hot and sour flavors, this Clear Hot and Sour Soup is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 cup dried bamboo shoots, sliced
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons vinegar (apple cider or rice wine)
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken broth, water, bamboo shoots, and cornstarch mixture. Whisk until smooth.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Add soy sauce, vinegar, sesame oil, onion, garlic, and ginger. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Clear Fish Broth with Herbs
Elevate your fish dishes with this light and refreshing broth, perfect for accompanying delicate fish fillets or using as a base for soups and sauces.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs fish bones (any white fish works well)
– 4 cups water
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the fish bones under cold water, then place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Roast the bones in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until they are lightly browned and fragrant.
4. In a large pot, combine the roasted bones, water, parsley, dill, garlic, and lemon juice.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the broth is clear and flavorful.
6. Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean pot, discarding the solids.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Clear Vegetable Minestrone
This refreshing Clear Vegetable Minestrone recipe is a light and revitalizing take on the classic Italian soup, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. With a clear broth and an array of colorful vegetables, this dish is both nutritious and visually appealing.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and grated
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 2 cups mixed vegetable broth (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup small pasta shapes (such as elbow macaroni or ditalini)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the carrots and celery; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
6. Stir in the diced tomatoes and pasta shapes. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Clear Lentil and Lemon Soup
This refreshing soup is perfect for a light and revitalizing meal. With the brightness of lemon and the subtle flavor of lentils, it’s a great way to cleanse your palate.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Clear Chicken Noodle Soup
Clear Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Soothing and comforting, this classic chicken noodle soup recipe is perfect for a quick and easy meal.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 stalks celery, sliced
• 1/4 cup uncooked egg noodles
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring the chicken broth to a boil in a large pot.
2. Add the chicken, carrots, and celery. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
3. Remove the chicken from the pot and let it cool. Once cooled, chop into bite-sized pieces.
4. Return the chicken to the pot along with the noodles.
5. Cook for an additional 10-12 minutes or until the noodles are al dente.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Clear Pumpkin and Coconut Soup
This creamy and comforting soup is a perfect blend of fall flavors, with the warmth of pumpkin and the richness of coconut. It’s a great option for a light yet satisfying meal or as a starter for your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 small pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add pumpkin, broth, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the pumpkin is tender.
4. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender and puree until smooth.
5. Stir in coconut milk and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Clear Tomato Basil Soup
A refreshing and flavorful soup perfect for any season, this Clear Tomato Basil Soup is a great way to enjoy the simplicity of tomatoes and basil.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs fresh tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, basil, and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Use an immersion blender (or transfer the soup to a blender) to puree the soup until smooth.
5. If desired, stir in the heavy cream to add richness to the soup.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve warm or chilled, garnished with additional basil if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Clear Ginger and Scallion Soup
This refreshing soup is a staple of Chinese cuisine, perfect for hot summer days or as a palate cleanser between courses. With its crystal-clear broth, fragrant ginger, and punchy scallions, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and sliced
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green and white parts)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine ginger slices and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
2. Strain the soup through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean pot, discarding the ginger.
3. Add scallions, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil to the soup. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot or chilled, garnished with additional scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Discover the refreshing world of clear soups with our collection of 20 delightful recipes. From classic Japanese Clear Onion Soup to Thai Clear Tom Yum Soup, and from Chinese Egg Drop Clear Soup to Russian Clear Borscht, we’ve got you covered. These light and revitalizing soups are perfect for any time of year. Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting and familiar or exotic and adventurous, our recipes have got the flavors and ingredients to satisfy your cravings.
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
