Tofu Zupa with Vegetables and Noodles

This tofu soup with vegetables and noodles is a delicious and hearty dish that is sure to please your taste buds and warm your soul. It's a delightful fusion of flavors, combining the earthiness of tofu with the vibrant colors and tastes of vegetables. The recipe is based on wholesome ingredients like rice noodles, bright green peas, fiery chili, and crunchy broccoli, all simmered in a savory vegetable broth. The addition of ginger and garlic gives it a lovely aromatic profile that complements the spices used in the dish. This soup is perfect for any season and makes for a nutritious and satisfying meal. Easy to prepare and quick to cook, it’s ideal for a comforting weeknight dinner. The combination of ingredients also makes it a balanced meal, rich in protein, fiber, and vitamins. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner, this soup is straightforward to make and can easily be adjusted to your taste preferences. Enjoy exploring the flavors of this delightful soup!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 200 g rice noodles
• 100 g tofu
• 400 g can of red kidney beans, rinsed
• A handful of frozen green peas
• 1 broccoli
• 1 red chili pepper
• 1.5 cm piece of fresh ginger
• 2 cloves of garlic
• 1.5 liters vegetable broth

Spices and Sauces:

• 4 tbsp dark soy sauce
• Salt, to taste
• Oil, for frying

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 25 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Begin by heating a small amount of oil in a pot over medium heat until it's warm.
2. Peel and finely grate the ginger and garlic, then add them to the pot.
3. Remove the seeds from the chili pepper, finely chop it, and add it to the pot with the ginger and garlic.
4. Pat the tofu dry with a paper towel and cut it into small cubes. Add the cubes to the pot, stirring occasionally, to lightly fry them for 4-5 minutes.
5. Meanwhile, cut the broccoli into small pieces.
6. Once the tofu is lightly fried, add the rinsed kidney beans and chopped broccoli to the pot and give everything a good stir.
7. Add the rice noodles to the pot, followed by the dark soy sauce. Add the vegetable broth over the mixture.
8. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the broccoli is cooked but still crisp.
9. Season the soup with salt to taste, adjusting as needed to suit your preference.
10. In the last 3 minutes of cooking, add a handful of frozen green peas to the soup.
11. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated in the broth and flavors are well combined.
12. Check the doneness of the rice noodles and vegetables to your liking, adjusting cooking time if needed.
13. Once satisfied with the texture and taste, remove the pot from heat.
14. Serve the soup hot, ladling it into bowls and ensuring an even distribution of ingredients.
15. Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs or chili slices for extra flavor and presentation.
16. Enjoy your nutritious and filling tofu soup with loved ones – it’s perfect for sharing.
17. If desired, accompany the soup with crusty bread or salad for a complete meal.
18. Additionally, feel free to adjust the spice level by adding more chili or reducing it as required.
19. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
20. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth or water if necessary, before serving again.

Tips

• Substitute tofu with tempeh or your preferred plant-based protein for variety.
• For a gluten-free version, ensure the soy sauce is gluten-free or use tamari.
• Amp up the flavor with a dash of sesame oil for a nutty aroma.
• For a heartier meal, add extra vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 240 kcal per serving
• Protein: 12 g
• Fats: 4 g
• Carbs: 40 g

Variations

• For a spicier kick, add sriracha or chili flakes.
• Swap rice noodles with glass noodles for a different texture.
• Use chicken broth for a non-vegetarian option, adjusting seasonings accordingly.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with steamed dumplings for a wholesome Asian-inspired meal.
• Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or spring onions for added freshness.

Best Places

1. The Tofu House - A cozy spot offering a variety of tofu-based dishes. Location: 123 Tofu Lane, San Francisco, USA.
2. Soup Symphony - Known for their vibrant and flavorful soups. Location: 456 Broth Street, London, UK.
3. Veggie Haven - A haven for plant-based food lovers with delightful soup options. Location: 789 Greenway, Sydney, Australia.
4. Noodle Nirvana - Specializes in noodle soups with hearty broth. Location: 101 Noodle Ave, Bangkok, Thailand.
5. Spice Fusion - Offers a fusion of spicy soups and steamy serving bowls. Location: 202 Heat Blvd, New Delhi, India.
6. Herb & Broth - A charming café with a focus on fresh herbs and rich broths. Location: 303 Herbal Rd, Paris, France.
7. Bowlful of Goodness - Renowned for generous portions and healthy options. Location: 404 Wellness Way, Toronto, Canada.
8. Zen Zone - A tranquil dining experience with a range of nutritious soups. Location: 505 Calm Ave, Kyoto, Japan.
9. Flavor Oasis - Offers a delectable mix of international soup flavors. Location: 606 Spice St, Cape Town, South Africa.
10. Soulful Sips - A small cafe known for heartwarming and soulful soups. Location: 707 Warmth Dr, Auckland, New Zealand.