Low-Calorie Asian Vegetable Soup

This Low-Calorie Asian Vegetable Soup is light, aromatic, and deeply nourishing. Infused with garlic, ginger, and star anise, the flavorful broth is filled with tender bok choy, mushrooms, and carrots, then finished with fresh herbs and crispy toppings. It’s a healthy yet satisfying soup that comes together in just 15 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Low-calorie yet flavorful
• Ready in only 15 minutes
• Packed with fresh vegetables
• Aromatic, Asian-inspired broth
• Naturally light and nourishing
• Customizable toppings for added texture
• Gluten-free adaptable
• Vegan-friendly if using vegetable stock
• Perfect for a quick lunch or starter
• Comforting without being heavy

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Infused Asian Broth:

4 cups (1 litre) low-sodium chicken stock or broth
2 garlic cloves, peeled and halved
1/2-inch (1.5 cm) piece of ginger, sliced
1 star anise (optional)
1 1/2 tablespoons light soy sauce
2 teaspoons sugar
1/2 teaspoon toasted sesame oil

Vegetables:

4–6 stems Chinese broccoli or bok choy, stems and leaves sliced separately
1 small carrot, peeled, halved lengthwise, thinly sliced diagonally
75g (2.5 oz) enoki mushrooms or other mushrooms, sliced or quartered

Toppings:

1/2 cup fresh cilantro (or Thai basil, mint, or chives), lightly packed
1 green onion, green part only, finely sliced
2 tablespoons crispy fried shallots
Optional: chili crisp, chili sauce, or sriracha
Optional: sesame seeds, sliced chili, Thai basil

directions

1. In a large saucepan, combine broth ingredients: chicken stock, garlic, ginger, star anise, soy sauce, sugar, and sesame oil. Bring to a simmer over high heat with the lid on, then reduce to low and gently simmer for 10 minutes to infuse flavors.
2. Meanwhile, chop all vegetables.
3. Turn heat back to high, bring broth to a rapid simmer. Add carrots, Chinese broccoli stems, and mushrooms. Cook for 3 minutes.
4. Add Chinese broccoli leaves and simmer for 2 more minutes until wilted.
5. Remove garlic and ginger pieces. Divide soup among bowls.
6. Garnish with cilantro, green onions, crispy shallots, and optional chili sauce or toppings. Serve hot.

Servings and timing

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 2 servings
• Calories: Approximately 90 kcal per serving

Variations

• Use vegetable broth for a vegan version
• Add tofu or shredded chicken for protein
• Swap Chinese broccoli with spinach, napa cabbage, or baby bok choy
• Add rice noodles or zucchini noodles for extra bulk
• Flavor with miso paste for added umami
• Top with toasted nori for a Japanese twist

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through. Avoid overcooking the vegetables when reheating.

FAQs

Can I use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock?

Yes, vegetable stock makes this soup vegan and just as flavorful.

Do I need the star anise?

It’s optional but adds a lovely depth of flavor.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the broth and chop the veggies ahead, then cook everything just before serving.

What mushrooms work best?

Enoki, shiitake, cremini, or button mushrooms all work well.

Can I add noodles?

Yes, rice noodles or shirataki noodles make it more filling.

Is this soup spicy?

Not as written. Add chili sauce or chili crisp for heat.

Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, though it’s best to freeze just the broth and add fresh veggies when reheating.

How do I keep veggies crisp?

Add them just before serving and avoid overcooking.

Can I use regular broccoli instead of bok choy?

Yes, though Chinese greens give a more authentic flavor.

What can I serve with this soup?

It pairs well with steamed dumplings, rice, or spring rolls.

Conclusion

Low-Calorie Asian Vegetable Soup is a light, flavorful, and nourishing dish perfect for quick meals or as a starter. With its aromatic broth, fresh vegetables, and customizable toppings, it delivers comfort and nutrition in just 15 minutes.

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