30+ Healthy Chinese Vegan Soup Recipes to Warm Your Soul

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When it comes to heartwarming and flavorful meals, soups hold a special place in many cuisines worldwide.

In Chinese cuisine, soups are not just a dish but a tradition, often crafted with care to nourish both body and soul.

For vegans, these soups offer a treasure trove of possibilities, combining plant-based ingredients with bold flavors and textures.

From light broths to hearty stews, the variety is endless.

This guide presents over 30 Chinese vegan soup recipes, each uniquely inspired by traditional cooking methods and local ingredients.

Whether you’re looking to detox, warm up on a chilly day, or simply explore new tastes, these recipes are a perfect starting point.

With a focus on wholesome ingredients like mushrooms, tofu, leafy greens, and aromatic spices, there’s something for everyone.

30+ Healthy Chinese Vegan Soup Recipes to Warm Your Soul

Exploring these 30+ Chinese vegan soup recipes is a delightful way to celebrate the richness of plant-based cooking.

These soups offer a harmonious balance of nutrition, flavor, and simplicity, making them ideal for anyone looking to enjoy healthy, satisfying meals.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, these recipes are accessible and versatile, allowing you to adapt them to your preferences.

Beyond their taste and nutritional benefits, these soups carry a cultural essence that connects us to the traditions of Chinese cuisine.

So, roll up your sleeves, gather some fresh ingredients, and let the comforting aromas of these soups fill your home.

Your journey through the world of Chinese vegan soups promises to be as delicious as it is fulfilling.

Lotus Root and Peanut Soup

lotus root and peanut soup is a traditional Chinese vegan delicacy known for its mild, nutty flavor and soothing qualities. This soup is packed with nutrients, making it a perfect dish for enhancing digestion and boosting energy. Often enjoyed as a light yet nourishing meal, it is ideal for colder seasons to provide warmth and comfort.

Ingredients:

  • 1 medium lotus root (peeled and sliced)
  • 1 cup raw peanuts (soaked for 2 hours)
  • 6 dried red dates (pitted)
  • 1 slice fresh ginger
  • 8 cups water
  • Salt to taste

Instructions:

  1. Peel and slice the lotus root into thin rounds.
  2. In a pot, bring water to a boil. Add the lotus root slices, soaked peanuts, red dates, and ginger slice.
  3. Reduce to a simmer and cook for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the peanuts and lotus root are tender.
  4. Add salt to taste before serving.
  5. Serve hot and enjoy the rich, earthy flavors.

Lotus root and peanut soup is not only a comforting meal but also a reminder of the beauty of simplicity in Chinese cuisine. The blend of lotus root and peanuts creates a harmonious balance of texture and taste. Perfect as a starter or a light main dish, this soup reflects the heartwarming nature of home-cooked meals.

Sweet Corn and Carrot Soup

Sweet corn and carrot soup is a light, refreshing vegan soup celebrated for its naturally sweet and vibrant flavors. This soup is packed with vitamins and minerals, offering a guilt-free, nutritious option for any meal. It’s particularly loved for its colorful appearance and ease of preparation, making it a delightful dish for both children and adults.

Ingredients:

  • 2 ears of sweet corn (kernels removed)
  • 2 medium carrots (peeled and chopped)
  • 1 medium potato (peeled and diced)
  • 6 cups water or vegetable stock
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, combine sweet corn kernels, carrots, potato, and water or vegetable stock.
  2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
  3. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup slightly, leaving some chunks for texture.
  4. Add soy sauce, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Sweet corn and carrot soup is a delightful representation of how plant-based ingredients can create satisfying and wholesome dishes. Its naturally sweet flavor makes it a favorite among all age groups, while its vibrant colors brighten up any dining table. This soup is perfect for busy weekdays or as a light, nutritious starter for gatherings.

Chinese Herbal Mushroom Soup

Chinese herbal mushroom soup is a deeply nourishing and flavorful vegan soup, steeped in tradition and medicinal benefits. Featuring a medley of mushrooms and Chinese herbs, this soup is believed to enhance immunity and promote overall well-being. It’s a delightful way to enjoy earthy, umami-rich flavors while reaping the health benefits of ancient Chinese culinary wisdom.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup mixed dried mushrooms (shiitake, wood ear, etc.), soaked and sliced
  • 10 grams goji berries
  • 10 grams dried astragalus root slices (黄芪)
  • 6 dried red dates (pitted)
  • 1 slice fresh ginger
  • 8 cups water
  • Salt and white pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Rinse the dried mushrooms and soak them in warm water for 20 minutes. Slice them into smaller pieces if necessary.
  2. In a large pot, combine the soaked mushrooms, goji berries, astragalus root, red dates, ginger, and water.
  3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a gentle simmer. Cook for 1.5 to 2 hours.
  4. Remove the astragalus root and ginger slice before serving.
  5. Season with salt and white pepper to taste, and serve hot.

Chinese herbal mushroom soup is a testament to the harmony of taste and health in traditional Chinese cuisine. The combination of mushrooms and herbs not only creates a robust flavor profile but also brings balance and vitality to the body. This soup is ideal for anyone looking to incorporate a touch of wellness into their meals while savoring a hearty, satisfying dish.

Winter Melon and Barley Soup

Winter melon and barley soup is a refreshing vegan dish that’s perfect for cooling and detoxifying the body, especially in warmer weather. Known for its subtle sweetness and smooth texture, this soup is commonly consumed to reduce heat and improve digestion. Its light yet satisfying nature makes it a beloved choice in traditional Chinese cuisine.

Ingredients:

  • 500g winter melon (peeled and cubed)
  • 1/2 cup pearl barley (soaked for 2 hours)
  • 6 dried red dates (pitted)
  • 1 slice fresh ginger
  • 8 cups water
  • Salt to taste

Instructions:

  1. Rinse the soaked barley thoroughly.
  2. In a pot, bring water to a boil and add the barley, red dates, and ginger slice.
  3. Simmer for 30 minutes, then add the cubed winter melon.
  4. Continue to simmer for another 20 minutes, or until the barley and winter melon are tender.
  5. Add salt to taste, and serve hot or warm.

Winter melon and barley soup is a light yet nourishing choice for any meal. Its mild flavor is complemented by the soft texture of the winter melon and the chewy barley. This dish not only satisfies the palate but also promotes health and hydration, making it a great addition to any vegan menu.

Hot and Sour Tofu Soup

Hot and sour tofu soup is a bold and zesty vegan dish bursting with flavor. Its tangy and spicy notes, combined with soft tofu and crunchy vegetables, make it a satisfying and invigorating choice. Popular in Chinese households and restaurants alike, this soup delivers warmth and excitement to the table, making it perfect for chilly days or when craving something vibrant.

Ingredients:

  • 1 block soft tofu (cubed)
  • 1/2 cup shiitake mushrooms (sliced)
  • 1 medium carrot (julienned)
  • 6 cups vegetable stock
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (mixed with 2 tablespoons water)
  • 1 teaspoon chili oil (optional)
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a pot, bring the vegetable stock to a boil. Add mushrooms, carrots, and tofu.
  2. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
  3. Stir in soy sauce, rice vinegar, white pepper, and chili oil.
  4. Slowly add the cornstarch mixture, stirring constantly to thicken the soup slightly.
  5. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.

Hot and sour tofu soup is a delightful explosion of flavors and textures that leaves a lasting impression. Its perfect balance of heat and tanginess, paired with wholesome tofu and veggies, makes it a hearty vegan option. This soup is a great way to spice up your meal while enjoying a comforting bowl of goodness.

Bok Choy and Shiitake Soup

Bok choy and shiitake soup is a simple yet flavorful vegan soup that highlights the natural umami of mushrooms and the crisp freshness of bok choy. With minimal seasoning, this dish allows the ingredients’ natural flavors to shine, making it a staple in many Chinese households. It’s light, healthy, and incredibly easy to prepare.

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups baby bok choy (halved)
  • 1 cup fresh shiitake mushrooms (sliced)
  • 6 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 slice fresh ginger
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • Salt and white pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Heat the vegetable broth in a pot and add the ginger slice.
  2. Bring to a boil, then add the shiitake mushrooms. Simmer for 10 minutes.
  3. Add the bok choy and cook for another 5 minutes, or until the bok choy is tender but still bright green.
  4. Stir in soy sauce and sesame oil, and season with salt and white pepper to taste.
  5. Serve hot and enjoy the light, earthy flavors.

Bok choy and shiitake soup is a quick, nutritious option for those seeking a wholesome and flavorful meal. The tender-crisp bok choy pairs beautifully with the meaty mushrooms, creating a delightful harmony of textures and tastes. Perfect as a starter or a light meal, this soup is both comforting and energizing.

Chinese Cabbage and Ginger Soup

Chinese cabbage and ginger soup is a delicate vegan dish that embodies simplicity and warmth. The natural sweetness of Chinese cabbage combined with the gentle spiciness of ginger makes this soup both comforting and invigorating. Often consumed to aid digestion and provide soothing relief during colder months, it’s a timeless classic in Chinese cuisine.

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups Chinese cabbage (chopped)
  • 1 slice fresh ginger (julienned)
  • 6 cups water or vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • Salt and white pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, heat water or vegetable broth and bring it to a boil.
  2. Add the ginger and let it simmer for 5 minutes to infuse the broth.
  3. Stir in the chopped Chinese cabbage and cook for 8–10 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender.
  4. Add soy sauce, sesame oil, and season with salt and white pepper to taste.
  5. Serve hot as a light, comforting soup.

Chinese cabbage and ginger soup is a perfect representation of how minimal ingredients can create maximum flavor. Its light yet satisfying nature makes it a wonderful choice for a soothing meal, especially during times of stress or fatigue. A bowl of this soup brings warmth and nourishment to your day.

Tomato and Silken Tofu Soup

Tomato and silken tofu soup is a vibrant and tangy vegan dish that’s both refreshing and satisfying. The rich tomato broth pairs beautifully with the smooth, creamy texture of silken tofu. This easy-to-make soup is packed with antioxidants and protein, making it a healthy option for a quick meal or starter.

Ingredients:

  • 4 medium tomatoes (chopped)
  • 1 block silken tofu (cubed)
  • 1 slice fresh ginger
  • 6 cups water or vegetable stock
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh scallions for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Heat sesame oil in a pot and lightly sauté the ginger until fragrant.
  2. Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften and release their juices.
  3. Pour in the water or vegetable stock and bring to a boil. Simmer for 10 minutes.
  4. Gently add the cubed silken tofu and let it heat through for 2–3 minutes.
  5. Stir in soy sauce, sugar, salt, and pepper to taste.
  6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh scallions.

Tomato and silken tofu soup is a lively and nutritious addition to any meal. Its tangy, umami-rich broth and soft tofu create a delightful harmony of flavors and textures. Whether as a quick lunch or an appetizer, this soup is a delightful way to enjoy a simple yet delicious vegan dish.

Pumpkin and Goji Berry Soup

Pumpkin and goji berry soup is a naturally sweet and aromatic vegan dish cherished for its warming and nourishing properties. Packed with vitamins and antioxidants, this soup is a healthy and comforting choice for all ages. Its bright orange hue and slight sweetness make it an appealing and wholesome addition to any meal.

Ingredients:

  • 500g pumpkin (peeled and cubed)
  • 2 tablespoons goji berries (soaked for 10 minutes)
  • 6 cups water or vegetable stock
  • 1 slice fresh ginger
  • 1 teaspoon soy sauce
  • Salt to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, combine pumpkin cubes, ginger slice, and water or vegetable stock. Bring to a boil.
  2. Reduce heat and simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until the pumpkin is soft.
  3. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.
  4. Stir in soaked goji berries, soy sauce, and salt to taste. Simmer for another 2 minutes.
  5. Serve hot, and enjoy the creamy, naturally sweet flavors.

Pumpkin and goji berry soup is a heartwarming dish that showcases the natural sweetness of pumpkin and the subtle fruitiness of goji berries. Its smooth texture and vibrant flavor make it a fantastic comfort food during cooler seasons. With its blend of nourishment and taste, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your vegan repertoire.

Spinach and Wood Ear Mushroom Soup

Spinach and wood ear mushroom soup is a light, nutrient-rich vegan dish that’s simple yet flavorful. The earthy taste of wood ear mushrooms complements the fresh, leafy spinach, creating a harmonious balance of textures and flavors. This soup is known for its detoxifying and nourishing properties, making it a great choice for health-conscious individuals.

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups fresh spinach (washed)
  • 1/2 cup dried wood ear mushrooms (soaked and sliced)
  • 6 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 slice fresh ginger
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • Salt and white pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Heat the vegetable broth in a large pot and bring it to a boil. Add the ginger slice and simmer for 5 minutes.
  2. Add the sliced wood ear mushrooms and cook for 10 minutes.
  3. Stir in the spinach and cook for another 2–3 minutes, just until wilted.
  4. Season with soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and white pepper.
  5. Serve hot and enjoy the vibrant, nourishing flavors.

Spinach and wood ear mushroom soup is a delightful way to enjoy a healthy, plant-based dish. The tender spinach and chewy mushrooms create a unique texture combination, while the light broth keeps it refreshing. Perfect as a quick appetizer or a light meal, this soup is as delicious as it is wholesome.

Sweet Potato and Ginger Soup

Sweet potato and ginger soup is a comforting vegan dish that’s rich in flavor and nutrients. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes is perfectly balanced by the gentle spiciness of ginger, creating a warming, velvety soup. This dish is ideal for cooler days when you crave something hearty and nourishing.

Ingredients:

  • 2 large sweet potatoes (peeled and cubed)
  • 1 slice fresh ginger
  • 6 cups water or vegetable stock
  • 1 teaspoon soy sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
  • Salt to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, combine the cubed sweet potatoes, ginger slice, and water or vegetable stock. Bring to a boil.
  2. Reduce heat and simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
  3. Remove the ginger slice, then use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.
  4. Stir in soy sauce, cinnamon (if using), and salt to taste.
  5. Serve warm and enjoy the creamy, subtly spiced flavors.

Sweet potato and ginger soup is a bowl of cozy goodness that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Its creamy texture and warm flavors make it a delightful choice for a comforting meal. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with bread, this soup is sure to please your taste buds and warm your heart.

Miso and Seaweed Soup with Tofu

Miso and seaweed soup with tofu is a simple, savory vegan soup inspired by Chinese and Japanese culinary traditions. It’s rich in umami flavors, thanks to the miso paste and seaweed, while the tofu adds protein and a soft, creamy texture. Perfect as a light starter or a nutritious main, this soup is both delicious and easy to make.

Ingredients:

  • 1 block soft tofu (cubed)
  • 1 tablespoon miso paste
  • 1 sheet dried seaweed (cut into strips)
  • 6 cups water or vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • Fresh scallions for garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a pot, heat the water or vegetable broth until it’s warm but not boiling.
  2. Dissolve the miso paste in the warm broth by whisking it gently.
  3. Add the tofu cubes and seaweed strips, and simmer for 5 minutes.
  4. Stir in soy sauce and sesame oil.
  5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh scallions.

Miso and seaweed soup with tofu is a quick, flavorful way to enjoy the benefits of sea vegetables and tofu. Its savory broth and soft, silky texture make it a satisfying yet light dish. Ideal for any time of the year, this soup is a must-try for those looking for a wholesome, umami-packed vegan recipe.

Daikon Radish and Carrot Soup

Daikon radish and carrot soup is a mild, detoxifying vegan dish that is both light and nourishing. Known for its cleansing properties, this soup features a subtle sweetness from the carrots and a refreshing bite from the daikon radish. It’s a simple yet satisfying addition to any meal, often enjoyed for its ability to support digestion and overall well-being.

Ingredients:

  • 1 medium daikon radish (peeled and sliced)
  • 2 medium carrots (peeled and sliced)
  • 1 slice fresh ginger
  • 6 cups water or vegetable broth
  • 6 dried red dates (pitted)
  • Salt to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, bring water or vegetable broth to a boil.
  2. Add the sliced daikon radish, carrots, ginger slice, and red dates.
  3. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 30–40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
  4. Add salt to taste and serve hot.

Daikon radish and carrot soup is a testament to the beauty of simple, natural ingredients. Its clean flavors and health benefits make it a wonderful choice for a light and refreshing meal. This soup is an excellent way to enjoy a comforting dish that also supports your body’s balance.

Bamboo Shoot and Snow Pea Soup

Bamboo shoot and snow pea soup is a vibrant, crisp vegan soup that celebrates the natural flavors of spring. The tender crunch of bamboo shoots pairs beautifully with the sweet, juicy snow peas, creating a light and refreshing dish. This soup is perfect for those who enjoy a mild, broth-based meal with a hint of sweetness.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup bamboo shoots (sliced)
  • 1 cup snow peas (trimmed)
  • 6 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 slice fresh ginger
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • Salt and white pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Heat the vegetable broth in a pot and add the ginger slice. Bring to a boil.
  2. Add the sliced bamboo shoots and simmer for 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in the snow peas and cook for another 2–3 minutes, until they are tender but still crisp.
  4. Add soy sauce, sesame oil, and season with salt and white pepper.
  5. Serve hot and enjoy the fresh, clean flavors.

Bamboo shoot and snow pea soup is a delightful way to savor the light, crisp textures of fresh vegetables. This simple soup is perfect for spring and summer, offering a refreshing and healthy option for any meal. Its natural sweetness and delicate flavors make it an ideal vegan choice for those seeking a balanced, wholesome dish.

Watercress and Almond Soup

Watercress and almond soup is a unique vegan dish combining the peppery freshness of watercress with the nutty creaminess of almonds. Packed with antioxidants and nutrients, this soup is a flavorful way to enjoy a healthy, satisfying meal. Often associated with cooling and detoxifying properties, it’s a great choice for a light yet nutritious dish.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups fresh watercress (washed)
  • 1/4 cup blanched almonds (soaked for 2 hours)
  • 6 cups water or vegetable broth
  • 1 slice fresh ginger
  • Salt and white pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Blend the soaked almonds with 1 cup of water until smooth. Set aside.
  2. In a pot, bring water or vegetable broth to a boil and add the ginger slice.
  3. Add the watercress and simmer for 5–7 minutes, until just wilted.
  4. Stir in the almond mixture and simmer for another 2 minutes.
  5. Season with salt and white pepper to taste. Serve hot.

Watercress and almond soup is a beautiful fusion of fresh, earthy flavors and creamy nuttiness. Its unique combination of ingredients makes it a standout dish for any occasion. Light yet nourishing, this soup is a perfect choice for anyone looking for a vegan recipe that is both delicious and health-enhancing.

Note: More recipes are coming soon