30+ Delicious Chinese Soup Recipes to Warm Your Heart and Soul

Chinese cuisine is a beautiful fusion of flavors, textures, and ingredients, with soups playing a crucial role in the everyday culinary experience. Whether you’re seeking a hearty meal or a light, aromatic broth, Chinese soups are versatile and deeply comforting.

From street food-style soups to sophisticated herbal broths, there’s a soup for every occasion and taste. These soups not only warm you up on chilly days but also provide nourishment, rich in traditional ingredients such as ginseng, goji berries, lotus root, and a variety of meats and vegetables.

In this blog, we’ve gathered 30+ Chinese soup recipes to offer you a comprehensive selection of both well-known and lesser-known dishes. Whether you’re craving something spicy, soothing, or medicinal, you’ll find a recipe to fit your needs.

With this extensive collection, you’ll explore flavors from different regions of China and learn how to make soups that can nourish your body and soul.

Let’s dive into these 30+ Chinese soup recipes and discover the joy of homemade soups from one of the world’s oldest and richest culinary traditions.

30+ Delicious Chinese Soup Recipes to Warm Your Heart and Soul

Chinese soups are not only about filling your stomach but also about celebrating balance and harmony in the ingredients.

With these 30+ recipes, you’ll have access to a wide range of flavors—from rich, brothy soups to light, invigorating bowls—each one designed to nourish and delight.

Whether you’re looking to indulge in a comforting bowl of Hot and Sour Soup or try something more unique like Shark Fin Soup, the variety in this collection will inspire you to experiment in the kitchen.

So, grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and start cooking these flavorful, nourishing soups that will transport you straight to the heart of Chinese cuisine.

Chinese Hot and Sour Soup

Chinese Hot and Sour Soup is a popular soup that combines bold flavors with a pleasant balance of spicy, tangy, and savory notes. Known for its rich, complex taste and smooth texture, this soup is a comforting dish that awakens the senses. It’s a well-loved choice for anyone seeking a unique, warming dish that’s as nutritious as it is flavorful, often enjoyed as an appetizer or a light meal.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup bamboo shoots, julienned
• 1/2 cup shiitake mushrooms, sliced
• 1/2 cup firm tofu, cut into small cubes
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp chili paste
• 1 tsp white pepper
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (optional for thickening)
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, bring the broth to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Add bamboo shoots, mushrooms, tofu, soy sauce, rice vinegar, chili paste, and white pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
3. Gradually pour the beaten egg into the soup while stirring gently to create delicate egg ribbons.
4. Stir in the cornstarch mixture, if desired, to thicken the soup.
5. Add the green onions and sesame oil just before serving. Adjust salt to taste.

Hot and Sour Soup is an invigorating dish that’s satisfying to make and even more enjoyable to eat. The harmonious blend of spicy and tangy flavors makes it a delightful starter for any meal. This soup is perfect for warming up on cold days or when you crave something bold, vibrant, and satisfying.

Chinese Winter Melon Soup with Pork

Chinese Winter Melon Soup with Pork is a nourishing and light soup that has long been enjoyed in Chinese households for its healthful properties and delicate flavor. Winter melon is revered in Chinese cuisine for its cooling effects on the body, making this soup a popular choice year-round, especially in the warmer months. The tender pork enhances the soup’s richness, providing a subtle but delightful depth of flavor that’s wholesome and satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb pork ribs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 4 cups water
• 1 small winter melon (about 1 lb), peeled and cut into large cubes
• 3-4 dried shiitake mushrooms, soaked and sliced
• 2 slices ginger
• 1 tbsp Shaoxing rice wine
• Salt to taste
• Green onions, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a pot, bring water to a boil. Add the pork ribs and blanch for 2 minutes. Drain and rinse the pork to remove impurities.
2. In a clean pot, add water, pork, ginger, and Shaoxing rice wine. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes.
3. Add the winter melon and shiitake mushrooms, and continue simmering for another 15-20 minutes or until the pork is tender.
4. Season the soup with salt to taste. Garnish with green onions before serving.

Winter Melon Soup with Pork is a beloved classic in Chinese cuisine, offering a harmonious balance of mild sweetness and umami depth. This soup is especially appreciated for its comforting qualities and light, soothing flavors. It’s ideal for anyone looking for a balanced, nutritious soup that pairs well with almost any main course.

Chinese Herbal Chicken Soup

Chinese Herbal Chicken Soup is a traditional soup packed with Chinese herbs known for their health-boosting benefits. Often seen as a tonic in Chinese culture, this soup is believed to nourish the body, strengthen immunity, and enhance overall vitality. With tender chicken and a rich, fragrant broth, this soup brings warmth and comfort, making it a perfect choice for a restorative meal that’s as therapeutic as it is delicious.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
• 6 cups water
• 4-5 slices ginger
• 10 goji berries
• 5-6 pieces of dried red dates
• 5-6 pieces of dried longan
• 1 piece of astragalus root (optional, for health benefits)
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add the chicken and ginger, then reduce heat to simmer.
2. Add goji berries, red dates, longan, and astragalus root (if using) to the pot.
3. Simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours until the chicken is tender and the soup is infused with the rich flavor of the herbs.
4. Season with salt to taste before serving.

Chinese Herbal Chicken Soup is an excellent choice for those seeking a soup with both flavor and wellness benefits. The herbs in this soup not only enrich its taste but also provide an added boost to overall health, making it a comforting option to enjoy any time you need a rejuvenating meal. It’s a recipe that’s simple to prepare yet brimming with traditional Chinese flavors and nourishment.

Chinese Egg Drop Soup

Chinese Egg Drop Soup is a simple yet heartwarming soup made with delicate egg ribbons floating in a light, flavorful broth. Known for its silky texture and mild, soothing taste, this soup is a favorite in Chinese cuisine and is commonly served as a starter. With its minimal ingredients and quick preparation, it’s perfect for those looking for a nutritious, satisfying dish that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with other meals.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
• 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
• Salt and white pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp soy sauce (optional)
• 1 tsp sesame oil

Instructions:

1. Bring the chicken broth to a gentle boil in a pot. Stir in the cornstarch mixture to slightly thicken the broth.
2. While stirring the broth in one direction, slowly pour in the beaten eggs to create delicate egg ribbons.
3. Add soy sauce, sesame oil, and season with salt and white pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with green onions and serve hot.

Egg Drop Soup is a comforting dish that’s both quick to prepare and deeply satisfying. The light broth and soft egg ribbons make it a soothing choice for cold days, and the mild flavor profile allows it to complement a variety of main dishes. It’s a staple for anyone seeking a simple yet nourishing bowl of soup.

Chinese Lotus Root and Peanut Soup

Chinese Lotus Root and Peanut Soup is a hearty and wholesome soup that’s popular in Southern China. Lotus root is admired not only for its crunchy texture but also for its health benefits, as it is believed to improve lung health and boost the immune system. Paired with the richness of peanuts and pork ribs, this soup offers a mild, earthy flavor and a delightful mix of textures, making it a staple in traditional Chinese cooking.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb pork ribs, cut into pieces
• 1 medium lotus root, peeled and sliced
• 1/2 cup raw peanuts
• 4 cups water
• 3-4 dried red dates (optional, for added sweetness)
• 2 slices ginger
• Salt to taste
• Green onions, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a pot of boiling water, blanch the pork ribs for 2 minutes, then drain and rinse.
2. In a clean pot, add water, pork ribs, ginger, peanuts, and red dates (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
3. Add the lotus root and continue simmering for another 30 minutes, until both the lotus root and pork are tender.
4. Season with salt to taste. Garnish with green onions before serving.

Lotus Root and Peanut Soup is a nourishing, satisfying dish that brings warmth and a sense of home to any table. With its soft, mildly sweet flavor and crunchy peanuts, it’s perfect for those looking for a nutritious, filling soup that highlights unique Chinese ingredients. This dish can be enjoyed year-round but is especially comforting on chilly days.

Chinese Wonton Soup

Chinese Wonton Soup is a light, flavorful soup featuring delicate wontons filled with savory ingredients. Often enjoyed as a comforting starter or light meal, wonton soup showcases the art of wrapping delicate dumplings and pairing them with a clean, aromatic broth. This soup is beloved not only for its taste but also for its cultural significance, as wontons are considered a symbol of good fortune in Chinese culture.

Ingredients for Wontons:

• 1/2 lb ground pork (or chicken for a lighter option)
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp ginger, minced
• 1 green onion, finely chopped
• 20-25 wonton wrappers

Ingredients for Soup:

• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1/2 tsp sesame oil
• Green onions, for garnish
• Fresh spinach or bok choy (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the wontons: In a bowl, mix ground pork, soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, and green onion until well combined.
2. Place a teaspoon of filling in the center of each wonton wrapper. Moisten the edges with water, fold the wrapper in half to form a triangle, then pinch the edges to seal.
3. In a pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add soy sauce and sesame oil to taste.
4. Carefully drop the wontons into the boiling broth and cook for 3-4 minutes, until the wontons float and the filling is cooked through.
5. Add spinach or bok choy (if using) and cook for another minute.
6. Garnish with green onions before serving.

Wonton Soup is a beloved comfort food that brings together delicate wontons and a flavorful broth for a satisfying, heartwarming meal. The tender wontons and light, fragrant broth make this soup perfect for any occasion, whether as a starter for a larger meal or as a light lunch on its own. With its balance of flavors and comforting warmth, this classic soup is sure to please.

Chinese Black Chicken Herbal Soup

Chinese Black Chicken Herbal Soup, also known as Silkie Chicken Soup, is a deeply nourishing dish in Chinese medicine. Made with black Silkie chicken and a blend of Chinese herbs, this soup is often enjoyed as a health tonic due to its reputed benefits for immunity, vitality, and overall well-being. Known for its rich, earthy flavor and unique, tender chicken, this soup is popular among those seeking a restorative and healthful meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole Silkie (black) chicken, cut into pieces
• 6 cups water
• 5-6 slices ginger
• 5-6 pieces of dried red dates
• 1/4 cup goji berries
• 2 pieces of astragalus root
• 5-6 pieces of Chinese angelica root (dang gui)
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Rinse the chicken pieces and remove any visible fat.
2. In a large pot, add water, chicken, ginger, red dates, goji berries, astragalus root, and dang gui.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 1.5 to 2 hours until the chicken is tender and the broth is infused with the herbs.
4. Season with salt to taste. Serve hot.

Black Chicken Herbal Soup is a uniquely nourishing soup that has been cherished in Chinese culture for generations. The combination of Silkie chicken and medicinal herbs creates a broth that’s both flavorful and deeply comforting. Ideal for those looking for a restorative soup, this recipe brings together traditional ingredients to create a dish that’s truly special.

Chinese Fish Head Soup

Chinese Fish Head Soup is a classic soup that’s prized for its rich, milky broth and deep, savory flavors. Using fish heads gives the soup an intense depth of flavor, while tofu and fresh vegetables add balance and nutrition. This soup is loved not only for its taste but also for its reputation as a source of good health and vitality, often enjoyed as a comforting dish in many Chinese households.

Ingredients:

• 1 large fish head (such as snapper or grouper), cleaned and cut in half
• 6 cups water
• 1/2 cup tofu, cubed
• 2 slices ginger
• 1 tomato, chopped
• 1/2 cup Napa cabbage, chopped
• 1 green onion, chopped, for garnish
• Salt and white pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp sesame oil (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a pot, heat sesame oil over medium heat, then add ginger and fish head. Sear the fish head until slightly browned on each side.
2. Add water, tomato, and tofu, and bring to a gentle boil.
3. Reduce heat to simmer and add Napa cabbage. Let it cook for 20-25 minutes until the broth turns milky.
4. Season with salt and white pepper. Garnish with green onion before serving.

Chinese Fish Head Soup is a delicious and wholesome dish that brings comfort and nutrition to the table. The milky, rich broth and delicate fish flavor make it an enjoyable and satisfying soup for any occasion. Perfect for those who appreciate seafood, this soup is sure to become a favorite for its robust flavor and simple preparation.

Chinese Sweet Corn and Chicken Soup

Chinese Sweet Corn and Chicken Soup is a comforting and mildly sweet soup that’s beloved for its smooth, creamy texture. Often enjoyed as a starter in Chinese restaurants, this soup combines tender chicken with sweet corn to create a light yet satisfying meal. The soup is easy to prepare, making it a go-to choice for anyone craving a comforting bowl of warmth that’s both filling and nutritious.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup sweet corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1/2 cup cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• Salt and white pepper to taste
• 1 green onion, chopped, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a pot, bring chicken broth to a gentle boil. Add the corn and shredded chicken.
2. Stir in the cornstarch mixture to thicken the soup slightly, then reduce heat to a simmer.
3. Slowly pour the beaten egg into the soup while stirring to create thin egg ribbons.
4. Season with salt and white pepper to taste. Garnish with green onion before serving.

Sweet Corn and Chicken Soup is a delicious, comforting option that’s loved for its creamy texture and subtle sweetness. Ideal as a starter or a light meal, this soup is perfect for when you’re craving something warm and satisfying. It’s a great recipe for all ages, providing a nutritious and easy-to-make dish that’s sure to please.

Chinese Hot and Sour Soup

Chinese Hot and Sour Soup is a popular, tangy, and spicy soup that balances a range of flavors and textures. Traditionally, this soup includes bamboo shoots, mushrooms, tofu, and sometimes pork, creating a hearty, thick broth. Known for its bold flavors, Hot and Sour Soup is enjoyed as both a starter and a standalone meal in Chinese cuisine. It’s ideal for warming up on cold days or whenever you crave something bold and satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/2 tsp white pepper
• 1/4 tsp chili paste (adjust for spice level)
• 1/2 cup bamboo shoots, sliced
• 1/2 cup shiitake mushrooms, sliced
• 1/2 cup tofu, cubed
• 1 egg, beaten
• 2 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 3 tbsp water
• Green onions and fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a pot, bring the broth to a gentle boil, then add rice vinegar, soy sauce, white pepper, and chili paste.
2. Add bamboo shoots, mushrooms, and tofu. Simmer for 5-10 minutes.
3. Stir in the cornstarch mixture to thicken the soup slightly, then reduce to a simmer.
4. Slowly pour in the beaten egg while stirring, creating ribbons.
5. Garnish with green onions and cilantro. Serve hot.

Hot and Sour Soup is a deliciously tangy, spicy dish that brings together a rich blend of textures and flavors. Its unique balance of sour, spicy, and savory elements makes it a favorite choice for those seeking a satisfying, warming soup. This traditional recipe is perfect for anyone who enjoys bold flavors and comforting dishes.

Chinese Winter Melon Soup

Winter Melon Soup is a popular dish in Chinese cuisine, known for its refreshing and mild flavor. Winter melon, or “dong gua,” has a subtle taste that absorbs the flavors of the broth, making it a perfect base for a light, hydrating soup. Traditionally, this soup is often paired with pork or shrimp for added richness, making it a soothing choice for hot summer days or as a gentle soup to start any meal.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 lb pork ribs or shrimp, cleaned
• 4 cups water
• 2 cups winter melon, peeled and cubed
• 2 slices ginger
• Salt and white pepper to taste
• 1 green onion, chopped, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a pot, bring water to a boil and add pork ribs (or shrimp) and ginger. Simmer for 30 minutes until the pork is tender.
2. Add winter melon cubes and continue cooking for another 10-15 minutes, until the melon becomes soft and translucent.
3. Season with salt and white pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped green onion before serving.

Winter Melon Soup is a gentle, refreshing dish that’s perfect for those looking for a light, hydrating soup. The subtle flavor of winter melon blends beautifully with the savory broth, offering a simple yet nourishing experience. This soup is ideal as a mild starter or a palate cleanser between richer dishes.

Chinese Chicken and Mushroom Soup

Chinese Chicken and Mushroom Soup is a savory, earthy dish that combines tender chicken with flavorful mushrooms in a light broth. This comforting soup is popular in Chinese households, enjoyed for its rich, umami flavors and simple ingredients. Known for its versatility, this soup can be made with a variety of mushrooms, adding depth and richness to the broth while providing a satisfying and filling meal.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 lb chicken breast or thighs, sliced thinly
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup shiitake or button mushrooms, sliced
• 2 slices ginger
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• Salt and white pepper to taste
• 1 green onion, chopped, for garnish
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil, then add ginger and sliced mushrooms. Simmer for 10 minutes until mushrooms are tender.
2. Add chicken slices and soy sauce, cooking for another 5-7 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked.
3. Season with salt and white pepper to taste. Garnish with green onions and cilantro before serving.

Chicken and Mushroom Soup is a comforting, umami-rich dish that’s simple to make and packed with flavor. The combination of tender chicken and earthy mushrooms creates a satisfying, hearty soup that’s ideal for cold days or whenever you need a warming meal. It’s a versatile recipe that you can enjoy as a light meal or pair with other dishes for a full feast.

Chinese Lotus Root and Pork Soup

Chinese Lotus Root and Pork Soup is a nourishing and mildly sweet soup often enjoyed for its health benefits. Lotus root is prized in Chinese medicine for its cooling properties and its ability to promote digestion. Paired with tender pork and aromatic herbs, this soup offers a comforting and flavorful broth that’s perfect for both warm and cool seasons. It is commonly consumed for its reputed ability to boost energy and improve lung health.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 lb pork ribs or pork bones
• 4 cups water
• 1 large lotus root, peeled and sliced into thin rounds
• 5-6 dried Chinese red dates
• 2 slices ginger
• 1 tbsp goji berries (optional)
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Bring water to a boil in a pot. Add pork ribs or pork bones and ginger slices. Skim off any scum that rises to the top.
2. Reduce the heat and let the pork simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour until the broth is rich and the pork is tender.
3. Add the lotus root slices, dried red dates, and goji berries (if using). Continue to cook for another 30 minutes until the lotus root becomes soft and the flavors meld together.
4. Season with salt to taste before serving.

Lotus Root and Pork Soup is a traditional Chinese comfort dish that provides both nourishment and a gentle, natural sweetness. The lotus root offers a delightful crunch while absorbing the savory flavors of the broth. With its soothing qualities, this soup is perfect for anyone looking for a nourishing, low-fat dish that also promotes digestion and overall wellness.

Chinese Egg Drop Soup

Chinese Egg Drop Soup is a simple yet flavorful soup that is both quick and satisfying. Known for its silky texture and delicate flavor, this soup is made with a base of chicken broth, and the addition of beaten eggs creates soft, tender egg ribbons that float throughout the broth. Popular as a starter in Chinese restaurants, it is often enjoyed for its lightness and warmth, making it a perfect choice for a light meal or as part of a multi-course meal.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1/4 tsp white pepper
• 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (optional for thicker consistency)
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• Green onions, chopped, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add soy sauce, sesame oil, and white pepper to season the broth.
2. If you prefer a thicker soup, stir in the cornstarch mixture and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the broth thickens slightly.
3. Lower the heat and slowly drizzle the beaten eggs into the soup while stirring gently in one direction. This will create silky egg ribbons throughout the soup.
4. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Egg Drop Soup is a classic and quick-to-make Chinese dish that’s perfect for warming up on a chilly day. The smooth texture and delicate flavor of the egg ribbons make this soup a comforting favorite. Its simplicity and ease of preparation make it an excellent choice for anyone seeking a light yet flavorful meal, while its subtle flavors make it a wonderful complement to other dishes.

Chinese Sweet Potato and Pork Soup

Chinese Sweet Potato and Pork Soup is a hearty and mildly sweet soup that is both satisfying and nutritious. Sweet potatoes are revered in Chinese medicine for their ability to balance the body’s energy and support digestive health. Combined with tender pork and nourishing herbs, this soup provides a comforting and balanced meal, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking for a naturally sweet, filling dish with a rich depth of flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 lb pork ribs or pork shoulder, cut into pieces
• 4 cups water
• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into cubes
• 2 slices ginger
• 2-3 Chinese red dates
• 1 tbsp goji berries (optional)
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. In a pot, bring water to a boil and add pork ribs or pork shoulder and ginger slices. Skim off any impurities that rise to the surface.
2. Lower the heat and simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour until the pork is tender and the broth is flavorful.
3. Add the sweet potato cubes, red dates, and goji berries (if using). Continue to cook for 30-40 minutes until the sweet potatoes are tender and the soup is infused with the natural sweetness of the potatoes.
4. Season with salt to taste before serving.

Sweet Potato and Pork Soup offers a perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors, creating a deeply satisfying meal. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes complements the savory pork, resulting in a soup that is both comforting and nourishing. This soup is an excellent option for anyone seeking a wholesome, healthful dish that’s easy to prepare and full of goodness.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!