When it comes to comforting meals, few things can beat a steaming hot bowl of flavorful Asian soup. From spicy and sour to rich and savory, these soups are sure to warm your belly and your heart. In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious and diverse Asian soup recipes that showcase the best of the continent’s culinary traditions.
From classic Vietnamese pho to Japanese miso soup, Korean kimchi jjigae to Chinese hot and sour soup, each recipe is a masterclass in balancing bold flavors and textures. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion dish, there’s something on this list for everyone. So grab your apron, gather some ingredients, and let the aromatic adventure begin!
Spicy Thai Tom Yum Soup
Tom Yum soup is a staple of Thai cuisine, known for its bold flavors and spicy kick. This recipe serves four and can be adjusted to suit your desired level of spiciness.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup water
– 2 tablespoons Tom Yum paste
– 2 kaffir lime leaves
– 1/4 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon fish sauce (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon palm sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as button, cremini, and shiitake)
– 1/2 cup sliced lemongrass
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine broth, water, Tom Yum paste, kaffir lime leaves, ginger, fish sauce (if using), palm sugar, salt, and pepper.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and lemongrass; cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Stir in cilantro.
5. Serve hot with lime wedges on the side.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vietnamese Pho with Beef and Herbs
Pho, Vietnam’s national noodle soup, is a flavorful and comforting meal perfect for any time of day. This recipe combines tender beef, fragrant herbs, and a rich broth to create a deliciously authentic dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef brisket or chuck, sliced into thin strips
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef bones (optional)
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup bean sprouts
– 1/4 cup lime wedges
– Rice noodles, cooked according to package instructions
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine beef broth, fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, onion, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
2. Add the sliced beef to the pot and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until tender.
3. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions.
4. Assemble Pho by placing cooked noodles into bowls, then adding slices of beef and a sprinkle of herbs.
5. Serve with lime wedges and bean sprouts on the side.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Japanese Miso Soup with Tofu and Wakame
A classic Japanese comfort soup that combines the savory flavors of miso paste with the tender texture of tofu and wakame seaweed. This simple yet satisfying recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups dashi broth (or vegetable broth)
– 1/4 cup white miso paste
– 1 block firm tofu, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup wakame seaweed, rehydrated and drained
– 1 green onion, thinly sliced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
Instructions:
1. In a medium pot, whisk together dashi broth and miso paste until smooth.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Add tofu, wakame seaweed, and grated ginger. Cook for 5 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Ladle into bowls and garnish with thinly sliced green onion.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Korean Kimchi Jjigae
Kimchi Jjigae, a popular Korean dish, is a flavorful and spicy stew made with kimchi (spicy fermented Korean cabbage) and various ingredients. This recipe serves 2-3 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup kimchi, chopped
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup pork or chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
– Salt, to taste
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add kimchi, broth, soy sauce, Gochujang, and black pepper. Stir well.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and water as needed.
6. Serve hot over rice.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Chinese Hot and Sour Soup
This classic Chinese soup is a flavorful and savory blend of hot and sour ingredients, perfect for a quick and comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/2 teaspoon ground white pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as shiitake and cremini), sliced
– 1 cup firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 1/4 cup scallions, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup bean sprouts
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together broth, water, cornstarch, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, sesame oil, white pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Add the mushrooms, tofu, scallions, and bean sprouts to the soup. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes or until the ingredients are heated through.
4. Serve hot, garnished with additional scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Malaysian Laksa with Coconut Milk
This classic Southeast Asian dish is a flavorful and aromatic noodle soup that combines rich coconut milk, spicy chili paste, and savory meat or seafood. This recipe yields a delicious and comforting bowl of goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cups chicken or beef stock
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon sambal chili paste (or more to taste)
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 200g noodles of your choice (e.g., rice noodles or egg noodles)
– Optional: cooked chicken, beef, or prawns for added protein
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add garlic and onion; cook until softened.
2. Pour in stock, coconut milk, sambal paste, cumin, turmeric powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Add noodles and cook according to package instructions.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot with optional protein of your choice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Indonesian Soto Ayam
Soto Ayam is a traditional Indonesian chicken soup that warms the heart and soul. This comforting dish is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a casual dinner with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups of chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken broth, ginger, garlic, onion, lemongrass, and cinnamon stick.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Add the chicken and cook until cooked through, about 15-20 minutes.
4. Season with salt, black pepper, and cumin.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Thai Coconut Chicken Soup (Tom Kha Gai)
This creamy and aromatic soup is a staple of Thai cuisine, made with coconut milk, chicken, lemongrass, and chilies. With its rich flavors and comforting warmth, it’s perfect for a cozy meal any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 1 Thai chili pepper, sliced
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic, lemongrass, and chili pepper; cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Pour in the coconut milk, broth, and fish sauce (if using); bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Japanese Ramen with Pork Chashu
This recipe brings together the rich flavors of Japan’s national noodle soup, featuring tender pork chashu and springy ramen noodles. With a few simple steps, you’ll be enjoying a steaming bowl of comfort in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 package of ramen noodles
– 2 pounds pork shoulder, sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup sake (or dry white wine)
– 1/4 cup mirin (sweet Japanese cooking wine)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 green onions, thinly sliced
– Sesame seeds and pickled ginger for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine pork slices, soy sauce, sake, mirin, and brown sugar. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2 hours or overnight.
2. Cook ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add pork chashu and cook until caramelized, about 5 minutes per side.
4. In a separate pot, combine chicken broth and sliced green onions. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. To assemble the ramen, place cooked noodles in a bowl, add slices of pork chashu, and ladle hot broth over top. Garnish with sesame seeds and pickled ginger, if desired.
Cooking Time: approximately 2 hours (including marinating time)
Vietnamese Canh Chua (Sour Fish Soup)
A flavorful and sour fish soup that is a staple of Vietnamese cuisine, Canh Chua is a perfect comfort food for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fish (such as catfish or tilapia), cut into large pieces
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine fish pieces, water, fish sauce, lime juice, garlic, onion, lemongrass, and ginger.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
3. Stir in sugar and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chinese Wonton Soup
This classic Chinese soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Wontons are boiled or pan-fried dumplings filled with a mixture of pork, shrimp, and vegetables, served in a savory broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 package wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1/2 pound ground pork
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 1/4 cup chopped cabbage
– 1/4 cup chopped shrimp
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chicken broth (homemade or store-bought)
– Noodles or rice for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground pork, scallions, cabbage, shrimp, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Place a small spoonful of the pork mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point. Press edges together to seal the wonton.
4. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
5. Bring chicken broth to a boil, then add wontons and cook for 8-10 minutes or until they float to the surface.
6. Serve wontons in bowls with hot broth and noodles or rice (if desired).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Korean Doenjang Jjigae (Soybean Paste Stew)
Doenjang Jjigae is a traditional Korean stew made with fermented soybean paste, vegetables, and sometimes meat or seafood. This hearty dish is packed with umami flavor and is often served as a comfort food in Korea.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons doenjang (Korean soybean paste)
– 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup zucchini, sliced
– 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
– 1/2 cup diced Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 pound pork or tofu for added protein
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine doenjang, gochujang, and vegetable broth. Whisk until smooth.
2. Add onion, garlic, zucchini, mushrooms, and chili flakes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
3. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. If using pork or tofu, add it during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
4. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Thai Boat Noodle Soup
Experience the authentic flavors of Thailand with this comforting boat noodle soup recipe. This popular street food dish is a staple in Thai cuisine, and now you can make it at home.
Ingredients:
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup water
• 1/4 cup fish sauce ( nam pla)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon ground white pepper
• 8 ounces rice noodles (preferably fresh)
• 1/4 cup bean sprouts
• 1/4 cup sliced scallions
• 1/4 cup diced cooked chicken or pork
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine broth, water, fish sauce, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
2. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. Add bean sprouts, scallions, and cooked chicken or pork to the pot. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with cilantro leaves.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Filipino Sinigang na Baboy
Sinigang na Baboy is a classic Filipino dish that combines the rich flavor of pork with the tanginess of tamarind broth. This recipe is a staple in many Filipino households and is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork belly or ribs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup tamarind paste
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce (optional)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
– Salt to taste
– Chopped green onions and tomatoes for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine pork pieces, water, tamarind paste, fish sauce (if using), onion, garlic, ginger, and black pepper.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 30 minutes or until the pork is tender.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Garnish with chopped green onions and tomatoes before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Japanese Udon Noodle Soup
This classic Japanese noodle soup recipe is a staple of comfort food, perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch. Made with thick and chewy udon noodles, savory dashi broth, and topped with green onions and sliced pork, this hearty soup is sure to warm your belly and your soul.
Ingredients:
– 1 package udon noodles
– 4 cups dashi broth (or vegetable broth)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sake (optional)
– 1 tablespoon mirin (sweet Japanese cooking wine)
– 1/4 cup sliced pork (such as loin or belly), cooked and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook udon noodles according to package instructions.
2. In a large pot, combine dashi broth, soy sauce, sake (if using), and mirin. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Add cooked udon noodles to the pot and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.
4. Ladle soup into bowls and top with sliced pork and green onions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vietnamese Bun Rieu (Crab Noodle Soup)
A rich and flavorful soup originating from central Vietnam, Bun Rieu is a popular street food that combines the sweetness of crab with the spiciness of chili peppers. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen blue crabs, cleaned and cut into small pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 cup rice noodles
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce (optional)
– 2-3 chili peppers, sliced (depending on desired spiciness)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened.
2. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add crab and stir-fry until pink and cooked through.
4. Pour in chicken broth and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes.
5. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
6. Stir in fish sauce (if using) and chili peppers.
7. Serve soup hot with noodles and garnish with additional chili peppers if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chinese Egg Drop Soup
A classic Chinese comfort food, egg drop soup is a simple and soothing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe yields a clear broth with tender eggs and a delicate flavor.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs and salt until well combined.
2. Bring chicken broth to a simmer in a large pot over medium heat.
3. Gradually add the egg mixture to the pot, stirring constantly with a spoon or spatula to create thin, egg-drop-like strands.
4. Cook for 1-2 minutes, then stir in cornstarch and white pepper until dissolved.
5. Remove from heat and stir in vegetable oil.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Korean Seolleongtang (Ox Bone Soup)
Seolleongtang, also known as Ox Bone Soup, is a traditional Korean dish that has been a staple of the country’s cuisine for centuries. This hearty soup is made with slow-cooked ox bones and rich beef broth, resulting in a flavorful and comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs ox bones (you can use beef neck bones or marrow bones)
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 star anise
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the ox bones with cold water, then roast them in the oven for 30 minutes.
3. In a large pot, combine the roasted bones, beef broth, onion, garlic, ginger, and star anise. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-6 hours
Thai Glass Noodle Soup (Yen Ta Fo)
Thai Glass Noodle Soup (Yen Ta Fo) Recipe
This comforting Thai soup is a staple in many households, with its clear broth and springy glass noodles. Perfect for a quick and easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as bean sprouts, bok choy, and mushrooms)
– 1/4 cup glass noodles
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil in a large pot.
2. Add the oil, garlic, and mixed vegetables. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Add the glass noodles and cook according to package instructions.
4. Stir in the soy sauce and fish sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro or scallions.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Japanese Sukiyaki Hot Pot
Experience the rich flavors of Japan with this classic Sukiyaki Hot Pot recipe, perfect for a gathering with friends and family. This savory hot pot is simmered to perfection in a sweet soy sauce broth, served with a variety of ingredients for a customizable dining experience.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef (thinly sliced), pork (thinly sliced), or chicken (cut into bite-sized pieces)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup sake (or dry white wine)
– 1/4 cup mirin (sweet Japanese cooking sake)
– 2 cups dashi broth (or beef broth as substitute)
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Noodles or rice for serving
Instructions:
1. Combine soy sauce, sake, mirin, and sugar in a large pot. Bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Add vegetable oil, onion, and garlic. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Add your choice of protein (beef, pork, or chicken) and cook until cooked through.
5. Serve hot with noodles or rice.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Looking for comforting and flavorful meals? Look no further! This article brings together 20 delicious Asian soup recipes that are sure to warm your heart and belly. From spicy Thai Tom Yum Soup to hearty Korean Doenjang Jjigae (Soybean Paste Stew), these soups offer a world of flavors and textures. Whether you’re in the mood for something creamy like Japanese Miso Soup with Tofu and Wakame or something bold like Filipino Sinigang na Baboy, there’s something for everyone. So grab a bowl and dig in to explore the diverse and comforting world of Asian soups!
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