Soup > Asian Soups > Korean Soups

Bibikkan's Spicy Tofu Soup Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 (14-ounce) package extra-firm tofu, drained and cubed
- 2 cups chopped fresh spinach
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Special Equipment Needed:
- Large pot
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Grater

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, ginger, red pepper flakes, cumin, coriander, turmeric, black pepper, cinnamon, and cardamom. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the vegetable broth and soy sauce and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat to low and add the tofu. Simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Add the spinach and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
6. Stir in the lime juice and cilantro.
7. Serve hot.

Time:
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Temperature: Medium heat
Serving Size: 4

Nutritional Information:
Calories: 144
Fat: 7.4 g
Carbohydrates: 8.3 g
Protein: 11.3 g

Substitutions for Ingredients
- Vegetable oil: olive oil
- Onion: shallot
- Ginger: galangal
- Red pepper flakes: cayenne pepper
- Vegetable broth: chicken broth
- Soy sauce: tamari
- Tofu: tempeh
- Spinach: kale
- Lime juice: lemon juice
- Cilantro: parsley

Variations:
- Add 1/2 cup cooked quinoa for a heartier soup.
- Replace the tofu with cooked chicken or shrimp.
- Add 1/2 cup diced carrots or celery for extra vegetables.
- Add 1/2 cup coconut milk for a creamy soup.

Tips and Tricks:
- For a spicier soup, add an additional teaspoon of red pepper flakes.
- For a milder soup, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes.
- For a creamier soup, add 1/2 cup of coconut milk.

Storage Instructions:
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Reheating Instructions:
Reheat in a pot over medium heat until warmed through.

Presentation Ideas:
Serve in individual bowls with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro on top.

Garnishes:
Chopped cilantro, lime wedges, and/or sliced jalapeƱos.

Pairings:
Rice, naan, or crusty bread.

Suggested Side Dishes:
Steamed vegetables, a green salad, or roasted potatoes.

Troubleshooting Advice:
If the soup is too spicy, add a tablespoon of coconut milk or a squeeze of lime juice.

Food Safety Advice:
Refrigerate any leftovers within 2 hours of cooking.

Food History:
Tofu has been a staple in Asian cuisine for centuries. It is a nutritious and versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes.

Flavor Profiles:
This soup has a spicy and savory flavor with a hint of sweetness from the cinnamon and cardamom.

Serving Suggestions:
Serve with a side of steamed vegetables, a green salad, or roasted potatoes.

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Region: Korean

Taste: Spicy, Savory, Tangy, Umami, Aromatic