Warm up with the bold flavors of Spicy Gai Lan Soup, a wholesome, aromatic dish that's perfect for chilly evenings or when you're craving a comforting meal with a kick. This recipe features tender gai lan (Chinese broccoli), simmered in a flavorful broth infused with garlic, ginger, and a fiery red chili paste. Soy sauce and a touch of rice vinegar add depth and balance, while a cornstarch slurry thickens the soup to perfection. For an added protein boost, toss in tofu cubes, and finish with a sprinkle of green onions and sesame seeds for garnish. Quick to prepare in just 35 minutes, this Spicy Gai Lan Soup is a delightful fusion of spice and nutrition, ideal as a light dinner or an appetizer to impress. It's a dream come true for lovers of bold Asian-inspired flavors!
Wash the gai lan thoroughly, trim the ends, and cut into 2-3 inch pieces, separating the leaves and stems for even cooking.
In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
Stir in the red chili paste and cook for another 1 minute, allowing the flavors to develop.
Pour in the chicken or vegetable stock and bring to a gentle boil.
Add the gai lan stems to the pot first and cook for 3-4 minutes. Then add the leaves and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
Stir in the soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning as needed.
In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water to make a slurry. Gradually stir this into the soup to thicken it slightly.
If using tofu, add it to the pot and cook gently for 2-3 minutes to warm through.
Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with green onions and sesame seeds (if using), and serve hot.
Calories |
824 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 49.9 g | 64% | |
| Saturated Fat | 7.5 g | 38% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 5292 mg | 230% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 50.7 g | 18% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 10.0 g | 36% | |
| Total Sugars | 15.0 g | ||
| Protein | 50.2 g | 100% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 978 mg | 75% | |
| Iron | 16.4 mg | 91% | |
| Potassium | 1709 mg | 36% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.