Craving a quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful meal? Look no further than this simple Seaweed Tofu Soup recipe! Ready in just 10 minutes, this delicious soup is packed with umami goodness from dried seaweed and silken tofu, offering a perfect balance of textures and tastes. It's the ideal weeknight dinner, a satisfying lunch, or even a light and refreshing starter. The minimal ingredients and straightforward preparation make this recipe accessible to even the busiest cooks. This comforting soup is also incredibly versatile; feel free to customize it with your favorite additions like mushrooms, scallions, or a splash of chili oil.
Forget complicated recipes and long cooking times; this Seaweed Tofu Soup is all about efficiency and deliciousness. With its vibrant flavors and nutritional benefits, this soup is a true culinary gem. Ready to dive into the simple steps that will bring this savory delight to your table? Let's get started with the easy-to-follow instructions below!
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Tea bag (optional)
Ingredients
- Tofu: small cubes
- Dried seaweed: few pieces
- Spring onion
- Minced meat
- Egg: 1
- Light soy sauce
- White pepper
- Shaoxing wine
- Star anise powder
- Water: a pot
- Dried anchovies (or anchovy broth)
- Ginger: few pieces
- Salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients & Broth
- Cut tofu into small cubes. Marinate minced meat with light soy sauce, white pepper, Shaoxing wine, and star anise powder (optional).
- Boil water in a pot. Add dried anchovies (or anchovy broth) in a tea bag for a couple of minutes. Remove the tea bag.
Step 2. Cook Tofu & Meat
- Add tofu and minced meat to the boiling broth.
- Bring to a boil and season with salt.
Step 3. Add Seaweed & Season
- Add dried seaweed. It will soften quickly and release its flavor.
Step 4. Finish & Serve
- Turn off the heat. Add egg, spring onion, and a few dashes of white pepper.
Read more: Chinese Wonton Soup: Thousand-Li Fragrance Recipe
Tips
- Use slightly firmer tofu to prevent it from breaking easily.
- The natural MSG from the seaweed contributes significantly to the soup's flavor.
- Feel free to add other ingredients like fish balls to customize the soup.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 200-300
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbs: 10-15g
- Protein: 15-20g
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh seaweed instead of dried?
While dried seaweed is more convenient for this recipe, you can use fresh seaweed. Just use a larger amount and adjust cooking time as needed; it will cook much faster.
2. What kind of tofu is best?
Silken tofu works best for this soup as it has a softer texture and won't break down easily. Avoid firm or extra-firm tofu.
3. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! This soup tastes even better the next day. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
This quick and easy Seaweed Tofu Soup is the perfect solution for a healthy and delicious weeknight meal. Its simple ingredients and minimal prep time make it a recipe you'll return to again and again. Enjoy the comforting warmth and satisfying flavors of this delightful Asian-inspired soup!