Spiced Gai Lan and Silken Tofu Soup
This Spiced Gai Lan and Silken Tofu Soup is a vibrant and nourishing dish that is perfect for a light meal or as an appetizer. Gai Lan, also known as Chinese broccoli, brings a unique crunch and a slightly bitter flavor that perfectly complements the delicate silken tofu. For those who prefer a milder taste, feel free to adjust the heat by modifying the number of fresh red chiles included — you can easily substitute fresh broccoli if Gai Lan isn't available. This recipe is versatile, allowing for meat lovers to incorporate chicken for additional protein, making it suitable for various dietary preferences. Enjoy this aromatic soup as a warming dish any time of the year!
N/A
Servings
150
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
clear vegetable broth or chicken broth
62 ounces (none)
fresh grated ginger
2 teaspoons (grated)
dark sesame oil
1/2 teaspoon (none)
low sodium soy sauce
1 teaspoon (optional)
fresh gai lan or fresh broccoli
10 ounces (very thinly sliced, stems and florets)
small fresh hot red chile
1-3 (sliced)
low-fat extra-firm silken tofu
12 ounces (drained and cut into large cubes)
scallions
2 (sliced fine)
fresh cilantro
1-2 tablespoons (chopped)
Instructions
1
In a large saucepan, bring the clear vegetable or chicken broth to a rolling boil. Add the freshly grated ginger, dark sesame oil, and low sodium soy sauce if desired.
2
Once the broth is boiling, add the thinly sliced gai lan and the chopped fresh chiles. Allow the mixture to return to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
3
Cook the gai lan for 4-6 minutes until it is crisp-tender, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
4
Gently incorporate the drained silken tofu and finely sliced scallions into the soup. Be careful to stir gently to avoid breaking the tofu.
5
Continue to cook on low heat for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through, ensuring the tofu remains intact.
6
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro before serving. Enjoy it hot!
Nutrition Information
3.75
Fat
10
Carbs
10
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Spiced Gai Lan and Silken Tofu Soup?
It is a vibrant and nourishing clear soup made with Chinese broccoli (Gai Lan), delicate silken tofu, and aromatic spices like ginger and sesame oil.
What is Gai Lan?
Gai Lan is also known as Chinese broccoli. It brings a unique crunch and a slightly bitter flavor to the soup.
Can I substitute Gai Lan if it is not available?
Yes, you can easily substitute fresh Gai Lan with regular fresh broccoli.
Is this soup suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, if you use clear vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, the recipe is completely vegetarian.
How spicy is this soup?
The spiciness is adjustable. The recipe calls for 1 to 3 small fresh hot red chiles, which you can modify based on your heat preference.
Can I add protein to this soup?
Yes, for those who prefer meat, you can easily incorporate chicken for additional protein.
What kind of tofu is best for this recipe?
The recipe recommends using 12 ounces of low-fat extra-firm silken tofu, drained and cut into large cubes.
How many calories are in this soup?
This recipe contains approximately 150 calories per serving.
What is the fat content of the Spiced Gai Lan and Silken Tofu Soup?
The soup contains approximately 3.75 grams of fat.
How much protein is in this soup?
Each serving provides about 10 grams of protein.
How many carbohydrates are in this recipe?
There are 10 grams of carbohydrates in this soup recipe.
How should the Gai Lan be prepared?
The Gai Lan should be very thinly sliced, including both the stems and the florets.
What ingredients are used for the broth base?
The base consists of 62 ounces of clear vegetable or chicken broth, fresh grated ginger, dark sesame oil, and optional low-sodium soy sauce.
How long should the Gai Lan cook?
Cook the Gai Lan for 4 to 6 minutes until it is crisp-tender.
How do I prevent the silken tofu from breaking?
Incorporate the tofu gently and stir carefully to avoid breaking the delicate cubes.
When should I add the scallions?
The finely sliced scallions should be added at the same time as the silken tofu, towards the end of cooking.
What is the final garnish for this soup?
Garnish the soup with 1 to 2 tablespoons of freshly chopped cilantro before serving.
What is the total number of ingredients needed?
The recipe requires 9 specific ingredients.
Is this soup served hot or cold?
This soup should be served hot for the best flavor and experience.
Can I use regular soy sauce instead of low-sodium?
Yes, although the recipe suggests 1 teaspoon of low-sodium soy sauce as an optional ingredient.
How much ginger is required?
The recipe calls for 2 teaspoons of freshly grated ginger.
What type of sesame oil is used?
The recipe specifies 1/2 teaspoon of dark sesame oil for added depth of flavor.
Is this a light meal or a heavy meal?
It is described as a light meal or a perfect appetizer.
What are the common tags for this recipe?
Common tags include soup, gai lan, tofu, vegetarian, spicy, clear soup, and healthy.
How many scallions do I need?
You will need 2 scallions, sliced fine.
Can I use extra-firm tofu that isn't silken?
The recipe specifically calls for silken tofu to provide a delicate texture, but extra-firm silken variety is recommended so it holds its shape.
How do I start the cooking process?
Begin by bringing the vegetable or chicken broth to a rolling boil in a large saucepan.
Does the recipe contain sugar?
No, the provided nutritional information and ingredient list do not include sugar.
Is the soup fiber-rich?
While the specific fiber count is not provided, the use of Gai Lan (Chinese broccoli) adds natural fiber to the dish.
How long is the total simmer time after adding tofu?
After adding the tofu, continue to cook on low heat for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until heated through.