Description
A heartwarming bowl of Special Noodle Soup that combines flavorful broth, tender noodles, and a variety of fresh vegetables. This dish is an aromatic mix of herbs, spices, and savory goodness that will leave you feeling satisfied. Ideal for all seasons, it’s customizable with different protein choices like beef, chicken, or tofu.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Broth:
- 6 cups of chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian option)
- 1 onion, quartered
- 4 cloves garlic, smashed
- 1-inch piece of ginger, sliced
- 2 star anise
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp fish sauce
- 1 tsp sugar (optional)
- Salt to taste
For the Noodles:
- 200g wheat noodles (or rice noodles for gluten-free option)
Vegetables:
- 1 cup bok choy, chopped
- 1/2 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1/2 cup carrots, julienned
- 1/2 cup spinach
For Toppings:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges
- Sliced chili peppers (optional)
- Sesame oil (for drizzling)
Optional Protein (Choose one):
- 1/2 lb chicken breast, thinly sliced
- 1/2 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced
- 1/2 block tofu, cubed (for vegetarian option)
Instructions
- Prepare the Broth:
In a large pot, add the chicken broth, onion, garlic, ginger, star anise, cinnamon stick, soy sauce, fish sauce, and sugar. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Let it cook for 25-30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt as needed. - Cook the Noodles:
While the broth simmers, cook the noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside. - Prepare the Vegetables:
In a separate pan, sauté the mushrooms, carrots, and bok choy for 3-4 minutes until they soften. Add the spinach at the end and sauté for an additional minute, just to wilt the spinach. - Assemble the Soup:
In serving bowls, place a portion of cooked noodles. Pour the hot broth over the noodles and add the sautéed vegetables. - Add Protein:
If using meat or tofu, add it to the hot broth to cook briefly, or place it directly on top of the soup. - Garnish and Serve:
Top each bowl with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, chili peppers, and a drizzle of sesame oil. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- For a deeper flavor, let the broth simmer longer, or even overnight.
- You can substitute the soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free option.
- If you prefer a spicier broth, add extra chili peppers or a dash of chili oil.
- For a lighter broth, you can skip the fish sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 1,200mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: Special noodle soup, homemade broth, Asian noodle soup, healthy noodle soup, customizable noodle soup