Spicy Gai Lan Soup with Silken Tofu: A Flavorful Asian Delight
Spicy Gai Lan and Bean Curd Soup
Cook Time: 16 Minutes
Prep Time: 15 Minutes
Total Time: 31 Minutes
Servings: 4
Description
Embark on a culinary adventure with Spicy Gai Lan and Bean Curd Soup, a delightful dish that brings together the vibrant flavors of Chinese broccoli, also known as gai lan, with the subtle creaminess of tofu, all while delivering a pleasing spiciness that can be easily adjusted to suit your palate. This recipe calls for fresh gai lan, which can typically be found at Asian grocery stores, but in case you have trouble locating it, fear not! Tender broccoli can serve as a suitable substitute, offering a similar taste profile that complements the other ingredients.
This soup is not only light and refreshing but also versatile, as it can easily be made vegetarian. For those who desire a heartier option, consider swapping the tofu for chicken; simply add about 10 to 12 ounces of chopped cooked chicken when instructed to incorporate the tofu. The three fresh red Thai dragon peppers lend a delightful heat to the dish, but feel free to adjust the quantity based on your spice tolerance. This soup is perfect for any occasion, whether as an appetizer or a light main dish.
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 62 | vegetable broth |
| 2 | chicken broth |
| 1/2 | ginger (sliced) |
| 1 | low-sodium soy sauce (optional) |
| 10 | red chili peppers (sliced) |
| 1 – 3 | low-fat extra-firm silken tofu |
| 1 | scallions (chopped) |
| 2 | cilantro (chopped) |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutritional Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 14.9 |
| Total Fat | 0.7 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.1 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 2.6 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 2.2 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.5 g |
| Sugars | 0.8 g |
| Protein | 0.4 g |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Broth
Begin your culinary journey by bringing the vegetable broth, chicken broth, sliced ginger, and sesame oil (if using) to a vigorous boil in a large saucepan. The combination of both broths creates a deeply flavorful base that sets the stage for the other ingredients. -
Incorporate the Gai Lan and Peppers
Once the broth reaches a rolling boil, introduce the sliced gai lan and chopped red chili peppers into the pot. Bring the mixture back to a boil, then promptly reduce the heat to a simmer. Allow the soup to cook for approximately 4 to 6 minutes, or until the gai lan becomes crisp-tender, retaining its vibrant green color and nutritional benefits. -
Add Tofu and Scallions
With the gai lan perfectly cooked, it’s time to gently add the silken tofu and chopped scallions to the soup. Take care while stirring to avoid breaking apart the delicate tofu; the goal is to distribute the ingredients evenly while maintaining the integrity of the tofu. -
Heat Through
Allow the soup to simmer on low heat for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, or until everything is heated through. This step ensures that all the flavors meld beautifully together, creating a harmonious and delightful dish. -
Garnish and Serve
As the final touch, garnish your Spicy Gai Lan and Bean Curd Soup with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve the soup hot, allowing your guests to experience the inviting aromas and vibrant flavors that this dish has to offer.
This Spicy Gai Lan and Bean Curd Soup is a wonderful representation of the comforting yet exciting flavors found in Asian cuisine, making it a perfect addition to your collection of delicious recipes on Love With Recipes. Enjoy each spoonful of this light and spicy soup, and don’t forget to customize the heat to suit your taste preferences!
