When it comes to cooking with tofu, one of the most versatile and delicious ways to prepare it is by making a warm and comforting bowl of soup. Tofu can absorb flavors beautifully, and when combined with aromatic spices, vegetables, and noodles, creates a dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy and bold or light and soothing, there’s a tofu soup recipe out there to suit your taste.
In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 flavorful tofu soup recipes from around the world, each one showcasing the incredible versatility of this humble ingredient. From Korean-inspired soups to creamy vegan delights, and from classic Japanese miso soups to spicy Szechuan hot pots, we’ve got you covered. So grab a spoon and let’s dive in!
Spicy Korean Soft Tofu Soup
Soothe your soul with this comforting and spicy soup, a staple of Korean cuisine. This recipe is a flavorful and easy-to-make meal perfect for any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 block soft tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 cups water
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
– Sesame oil and toasted sesame seeds for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine Gochujang, garlic, and ginger. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until fragrant (2 minutes).
2. Add vegetable broth, water, soy sauce, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Add tofu cubes and cook for an additional 5 minutes or until heated through.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Garnish with green onions and serve with a drizzle of sesame oil and toasted sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Miso Tofu Soup with Shiitake Mushrooms
Savor the rich flavors of Japan-inspired comfort food with this easy-to-make Miso Tofu Soup, featuring tender tofu and earthy shiitake mushrooms in a savory miso broth.
Ingredients:
• 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, green beans)
• 2 cups water
• 2 tablespoons white miso paste
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 1/4 cup sliced shiitake mushrooms
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine water, tofu, and mixed vegetables. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Reduce heat to low and stir in miso paste, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
3. Add sliced shiitake mushrooms and cook for 5 minutes or until they release their earthy flavor.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai Coconut Tofu Soup
This comforting and flavorful soup is a perfect blend of creamy coconut milk, savory tofu, and aromatic Thai spices. Serve it with steamed jasmine rice or noodles for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon Thai red curry paste
– 2 cups coconut milk
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add garlic and ginger; cook until fragrant, 1 minute.
2. Add curry paste; cook, stirring constantly, for 30 seconds.
3. Pour in coconut milk, broth, and water. Bring to a simmer.
4. Add tofu and salt. Simmer until heated through, about 5 minutes.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vegetarian Hot and Sour Tofu Soup
This comforting soup is a twist on the classic Chinese dish, featuring tender tofu, vegetables, and a savory hot and sour broth. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 cups of vegetable broth
– 1 cup of mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon of sesame oil
– 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions and bean sprouts for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the sesame oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the mushrooms; cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the tofu, vegetable broth, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions and bean sprouts if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Kimchi Tofu Soup with Rice Cakes
This spicy and savory soup is a twist on traditional Korean soups, featuring crispy rice cakes and tender tofu in a flavorful kimchi broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of firm tofu, drained and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups kimchi (spicy Korean fermented cabbage), chopped
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 cup rice cakes, crushed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine kimchi, broth, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
2. Add tofu and rice cakes to the pot. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes or until rice cakes are crispy and tofu is cooked through.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Clear Tofu Soup with Bok Choy
This refreshing soup is a perfect blend of Asian flavors, featuring tender tofu and crisp bok choy in a clear broth. It’s easy to make and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small pieces
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups water
– 1 bunch bok choy, cleaned and chopped (white parts only)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine broth, soy sauce, and garlic. Bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Reduce heat to low and add tofu. Simmer for 5 minutes or until slightly tender.
3. Add water and bring to a simmer. Cook for an additional 10 minutes.
4. Stir in chopped bok choy and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Creamy Vegan Tofu Soup
Warm up with this comforting and creamy vegan tofu soup that’s perfect for a chilly day. This recipe is quick, easy, and packed with protein-rich tofu and nutritious veggies.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of firm tofu, drained and cubed
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 cups of vegetable broth
– 1 can (14 oz) of diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon of paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup of vegan cream or non-dairy milk
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the tofu, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until creamy, or transfer it to a blender in batches and blend until smooth.
6. Stir in the vegan cream or non-dairy milk. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tom Yum Tofu Soup with Lemongrass
This spicy and sour Tom Yum soup is a popular Thai dish that pairs perfectly with crispy tofu and fragrant lemongrass. In just 20 minutes, you’ll be savoring this flavorful and refreshing soup.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon Tom Yum paste
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine vegetable broth, coconut milk, garlic, lemongrass, and ginger.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Add tofu and Tom Yum paste; cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until tofu is golden brown.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
5. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Japanese Tofu Miso Soup
Warm up with this comforting and savory Japanese-inspired soup, featuring soft silken tofu, rich miso paste, and a hint of green onions. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of silken tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 cups of dashi broth (or vegetable broth as a substitute)
– 2 tablespoons of white miso paste
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon of grated ginger
– 1/4 cup of chopped green onions for garnish
– Sesame seeds and/or pickled ginger for optional toppings
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine dashi broth, miso paste, soy sauce, and grated ginger. Whisk until the miso is fully dissolved.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Add the cubed tofu and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.
4. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
5. Ladle into bowls and garnish with chopped green onions. Optional: sprinkle sesame seeds and/or pickled ginger on top.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Curry Tofu Soup with Spinach
This recipe combines the creaminess of tofu, the warmth of curry spices, and the freshness of spinach for a comforting and nutritious soup. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch, this dish is ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cubed
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup 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 and curry powder; cook for 1 minute.
3. Stir in coconut milk and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer.
4. Add tofu and spinach; cook until spinach wilts, about 5 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Szechuan Tofu Soup
Experience the bold flavors of China with this spicy and savory tofu soup, inspired by the renowned Szechuan cuisine.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup Szechuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 2 teaspoons sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic, ginger, Szechuan peppercorns, and red pepper flakes; cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the tofu and cook until golden brown, about 5 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the broth, soy sauce, and cornstarch. Add to the pot and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
6. Stir in sesame oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vegetable Tofu Noodle Soup
A comforting and nutritious soup that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This recipe combines the creaminess of tofu with the warmth of vegetables and noodles, all in one delicious bowl.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as carrots, zucchini, bell peppers)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup noodles (such as rice noodles or eggless noodles)
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add tofu, mixed vegetables, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Stir in soy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, with noodles added on top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tofu and Seaweed Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of protein-rich tofu, umami-packed seaweed, and fragrant vegetables. With its bold flavors and comforting warmth, it’s an ideal dish for a chilly evening or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cubed
– 2 cups mixed seaweed (wakame, hijiki, and kombu)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the seaweed, tofu, vegetable broth, and soy sauce. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lentil and Tofu Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of plant-based protein and fiber-rich lentils, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal for any time of the year. With the addition of silky tofu and aromatic spices, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 block firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add the lentils, broth, tofu, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Garlic Ginger Tofu Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of Garlic Ginger Tofu Soup, perfect for a chilly day or any time you need a pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 block extra-firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and ginger; cook, stirring occasionally, until fragrant (about 1 minute).
3. Add tofu, broth, coconut milk, and soy sauce.
4. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let cook for 15-20 minutes or until soup has reached desired consistency.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet Corn and Tofu Soup
Sweet Corn and Tofu Soup: A Creamy and Refreshing Recipe
This sweet corn and tofu soup is a perfect blend of flavors, with the sweetness of corn and the creaminess of coconut milk. It’s a great option for a quick and comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup sweet corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
– 1/2 cup firm tofu, cubed
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 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 and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add corn kernels and tofu; cook for an additional minute.
3. Pour in broth and coconut milk; bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat and let soup 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 cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Thai Basil Tofu Soup
A flavorful and aromatic soup that combines the sweetness of Thai basil with the savory taste of tofu, perfect for a quick and comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1 cup Thai basil leaves
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lime wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
2. Add garlic and ginger; cook for an additional minute.
3. Add tofu, vegetable broth, and Thai basil leaves. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
5. Stir in coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional Thai basil leaves if desired. Lime wedges on the side are optional.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Tomato and Tofu Soup
A flavorful and nutritious soup that’s perfect for a cozy evening meal. This recipe combines the sweetness of roasted tomatoes with the creaminess of tofu, all blended together in a comforting broth.
Ingredients:
– 2 large tomatoes
– 1 block of firm tofu, drained and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the tomatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until the tomatoes are tender.
3. In a large pot, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the roasted tomatoes, cubed tofu, vegetable broth, and dried basil to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bring the soup to a simmer and let it cook for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Tofu and Mushroom Soup with Herbs
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of savory flavors and comforting warmth, made with tender tofu, earthy mushrooms, and fragrant herbs. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal for any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 block extra-firm tofu, drained and cubed
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or non-dairy alternative
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
2. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start browning (5-6 minutes).
3. Add the tofu, thyme, and rosemary. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low; let cook for 10-12 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Stir in the heavy cream or non-dairy alternative. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemongrass Tofu Soup with Lime
This refreshing soup combines the subtle flavors of lemongrass and lime with tender tofu, perfect for a light and rejuvenating meal on a warm day.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
– Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine lemongrass stalks, vegetable broth, coconut milk, soy sauce, lime juice, and cumin.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Add the tofu cubes and cook until heated through, about 5 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves and accompanied by lime wedges.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Discover 20 delicious and flavorful tofu soup recipes perfect for any occasion! From spicy Korean soft tofu soup to creamy vegan options, these soups showcase the versatility of this popular protein source. Recipes include Miso Tofu Soup with Shiitake Mushrooms, Thai Coconut Tofu Soup, Vegetarian Hot and Sour Tofu Soup, and many more. Whether you’re a vegetarian or just looking for some tasty and easy meal ideas, this collection has something for everyone. So go ahead, get cooking, and enjoy these mouth-watering soups!