Silken Tofu and Chive Soup
Perfect for Chilly Days: A Heartwarming Silken Tofu and Chive Soup Recipe
This silken tofu soup, infused with a Chinese-inspired flavor, is incredibly smooth and delicate. It pairs wonderfully with spicy dishes and is an ideal choice when you’re craving a warm, comforting broth. A recommended soup that everyone will love! (All Recipes of the World, Made of Recipe)
Main Ingredients
- Silken Tofu (200g): The star ingredient, providing a wonderfully soft texture.
- Chives (30g): Adds a fresh aroma and a satisfying crispness.
- Garlic (3 cloves): A fundamental aromatic that enhances flavor.
- Green Onion (1/4 stalk): The white parts add sweetness, while the green parts contribute a refreshing taste.
- Dried Shiitake Mushrooms (2 pieces): Lend a deep, rich umami flavor to the broth.
- Kelp (3 pieces): Used to create a clear and clean-tasting broth.
- Water (3 cups, approx. 600ml): The essential base for a generous amount of soup.
- Salt (to taste): For final seasoning.
- Black Pepper (to taste): Adds a pleasant fragrance and boosts the soup’s overall flavor.
- Soy Sauce (1 Tbsp): Contributes a subtle umami depth and color.
- Sesame Oil (1 Tbsp): Enhances the dish with its nutty aroma, elevating its finish.
Starch Slurry (for thickening)
- Potato Starch (2 Tbsp): Helps to thicken the soup to a desirable consistency.
- Water (2 Tbsp): Used to dissolve the starch and adjust the thickness.
- Potato Starch (2 Tbsp): Helps to thicken the soup to a desirable consistency.
- Water (2 Tbsp): Used to dissolve the starch and adjust the thickness.
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, let’s prepare the vegetables. Thinly slice the green onion on an angle. Slice the garlic thinly to ensure it’s noticeable in the soup; this method also helps its aroma infuse more deeply into the broth.
Step 2
Wash the chives thoroughly, pat them dry, and then cut them into approximately 3cm lengths. We’ll add the chives at the end to preserve their fresh flavor and vibrant color.
Step 3
In a small bowl, combine the potato starch (2 Tbsp) with water (2 Tbsp). Whisk until smooth and lump-free to create a starch slurry. This mixture will be used to thicken the soup.
Step 4
Carefully remove the silken tofu from its packaging, gently drain any excess water, and then cut it into roughly 1cm thick pieces. Be mindful not to cut them too small, as they might break apart during cooking.
Step 5
Heat the sesame oil (1 Tbsp) in a pot over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and green onions and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. It’s important to cook them slowly to allow their flavors to meld with the oil. Be careful not to let them burn!
Step 6
Once the aromatics are fragrant, add the water (3 cups), dried shiitake mushrooms, and kelp. Bring to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, remove the kelp and shiitake mushrooms. This step helps to create a clearer broth. (Tip: To avoid a bitter taste, remove the kelp after about 5 minutes of boiling.)
Step 7
While the broth is simmering, carefully add the cut silken tofu and cook for about 2 minutes. Once the tofu has softened slightly, slowly pour in the prepared starch slurry while stirring the soup. Add it gradually until you reach your desired consistency, stirring continuously to prevent lumps.
Step 8
Finally, add the chopped chives and simmer for just another moment – they cook very quickly and should retain some crispness. Stir gently. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Your delicious Silken Tofu and Chive Soup is now ready to be enjoyed hot!
