When it comes to light meals, there’s nothing quite like a refreshing bowl of clear soup to hit the spot. Clear soups are not only delicious, but they’re also incredibly versatile and can be made with a wide range of ingredients. From classic Chinese egg drop soup to spicy Thai tom yum goong, there’s a clear soup out there for everyone.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 refreshing clear soup recipes that are perfect for light meals or as a palate cleanser between courses. Whether you’re in the mood for something savory and comforting or bright and zesty, these soups have got you covered. So let’s dive in and explore some of the most delicious and easy-to-make clear soup recipes out there!
Japanese Clear Onion Soup
A classic Japanese soup that’s simple yet flavorful, this clear onion soup is perfect for a comforting and nourishing meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 4 cups dashi broth (or chicken or vegetable broth as substitute)
– 1/2 cup sake (Japanese rice wine) or dry white wine
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper
– Salt to taste
– Scallions, thinly sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the sliced onions and dashi broth. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the onions are translucent.
2. Add the sake, soy sauce, grated ginger, and white pepper to the pot. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with thinly sliced scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Vietnamese Pho Bo (Beef Noodle Soup)
Pho Bo is a popular Vietnamese noodle soup made with slow-cooked beef, aromatic spices, and soft rice noodles. This hearty and comforting dish is perfect for a chilly day or as a quick lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef bones (preferably oxtail or beef neck bones)
– 2 pounds beef brisket or chuck, sliced into thin strips
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
– 8 ounces rice noodles
– Fresh cilantro leaves, basil leaves, and lime wedges for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large stockpot, combine beef bones, sliced beef, beef broth, fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, onion, garlic, ginger, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour.
3. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions.
4. Strain the soup and discard solids.
5. Serve hot with cooked noodles and garnished with fresh herbs and lime wedges.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Chinese Egg Drop Soup
A classic Chinese soup that’s both comforting and nourishing, Chinese Egg Drop Soup is a staple dish in many Asian households. This recipe yields a silky-smooth broth with tender eggs and a delicate flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup water
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1 teaspoon cornstarch
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
2. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low and whisk in water, egg yolks, and cornstarch mixture.
4. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the soup thickens slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai Tom Yum Goong (Spicy Shrimp Soup)
Tom Yum Goong, also known as Spicy Shrimp Soup, is a popular Thai dish that combines the flavors of shrimp, lemongrass, and chili peppers in a spicy and sour broth. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 2 kaffir lime leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/2 cup Tom Yum paste (available at Asian markets)
– 4 cups fish stock or water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 Thai bird’s eye chilies, seeded and chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh lime wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, garlic, ginger, and Tom Yum paste.
2. Add fish stock or water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Add shrimp, chilies, and vegetable oil. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves and a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Clear Chicken Noodle Soup
This light and refreshing soup is perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a comforting meal any time of the year. With just a few ingredients, you can have a delicious and nourishing bowl of goodness in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup egg noodles
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
7. Add the egg noodles and thyme to the pot and cook for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Korean Miyeok Guk (Seaweed Soup)
Miyeok Guk is a traditional Korean soup made with dried seaweed, vegetables, and sometimes noodles or tofu. This nourishing soup is often served as a side dish to complement other Korean dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon of dried miyeok (Korean seaweed)
– 4 cups of water
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, peeled and sliced
– 1 celery stalk, sliced
– Salt to taste
– Optional: noodles or tofu for added texture
Instructions:
1. Rinse the dried miyeok in cold water, then soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and cut the miyeok into smaller pieces.
3. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery, and cook until the vegetables are tender.
4. Add the miyeok and salt to the pot, stirring well.
5. Pour in the water and bring the mixture to a boil.
6. Reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
7. Serve hot with noodles or tofu, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Simple Clear Vegetable Broth
A light and refreshing broth perfect for soups, sauces, or as a base for other recipes.
Ingredients:
– 2 carrots, chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the chopped carrots, celery, and garlic.
2. Pour in the water and bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean pot or container. Discard the solids.
5. If desired, add the apple cider vinegar and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Clear Mushroom and Tofu Soup
This light and refreshing soup is perfect for a cozy evening or as a pick-me-up on a chilly day. With its tender tofu, earthy mushrooms, and clear broth, this recipe is sure to please even the most discerning palate.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the tofu and cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth, soy sauce, and grated ginger. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the soup has reached your desired consistency.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Lemon Grass Infused Clear Soup
A refreshing and light soup perfect for warm weather, this Lemon Grass Infused Clear Soup is a great way to cleanse your palate.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 stalk fresh lemongrass, bruised (about 6-8 inches long)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the broth, lemon juice, and water.
2. Add the bruised lemongrass stalk to the mixture.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let it infuse for 10-15 minutes, or until the soup has reached your desired strength of flavor.
5. Strain the soup through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl. Discard the lemongrass stalk.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with a sprig of fresh lemongrass if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Clear Fish Soup with Ginger
This light and refreshing soup is a perfect blend of flavors, featuring tender fish, crunchy ginger, and a hint of citrus. Perfect for a quick and nourishing meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound white fish (such as tilapia or cod), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and sliced thinly
– 4 cups fish broth
– 1/2 cup water
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine fish, ginger, fish broth, water, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and cook for 8-10 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Clear Lentil and Spinach Soup
A comforting and nutritious soup perfect for a chilly day, this recipe combines the subtle flavors of lentils and spinach with aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the rinsed lentils, vegetable broth, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Stir in the fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If desired, add lemon juice for an extra burst of flavor.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Clear Tomato and Basil Soup
This refreshing soup is a perfect blend of sweet tomatoes and aromatic basil, served chilled to provide a cooling respite on a warm day.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs fresh tomatoes, cored and chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant.
2. Add the chopped tomatoes, broth, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
3. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender and puree until smooth.
4. If desired, stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half to give the soup a creamy texture.
5. Stir in the chopped basil leaves. Season with pepper to taste.
6. Chill the soup in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Servings: 4-6 people
Clear Miso Soup with Wakame
This Japanese-inspired soup is a delicate balance of savory miso paste, comforting wakame seaweed, and soothing chicken broth. Perfect for a light and refreshing meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup white miso paste
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sake (or dry white wine)
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup wakame seaweed, rinsed and drained
– 2 green onions, thinly sliced
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken broth, miso paste, soy sauce, sake (or wine), and grated ginger. Whisk until smooth.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and add wakame seaweed. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until seaweed is tender.
4. Stir in green onions.
5. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Clear Beef Consommé
A classic French soup made with slow-cooked beef bones and vegetables, resulting in a crystal-clear broth.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef marrow bones (or oxtail)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the bones in a large roasting pan for 30 minutes.
3. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pan and continue roasting for another 15 minutes.
4. Transfer the roasted mixture to a large pot or Dutch oven.
5. Pour in the beef broth and add thyme.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2 hours.
7. Strain the consommé through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean pot or container.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Clear Pumpkin and Coconut Soup
This vibrant soup is a perfect blend of fall flavors, with the warmth of pumpkin and the creaminess of coconut. A comforting and nourishing meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 small pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the pumpkin, coconut milk, vegetable broth, and cumin. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the pumpkin is tender.
4. Use an immersion blender (or transfer the soup to a blender in batches) to puree the mixture until smooth.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Clear Dumpling Soup
This comforting soup is a staple of Chinese cuisine, with tender dumplings floating in a clear broth. This recipe yields a delicious and easy-to-make meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 pieces)
– 1/2 cup finely chopped cabbage
– 1/4 cup finely chopped scallions
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 4 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken broth, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low and add chopped cabbage and scallions. Simmer for 10 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
3. Add wonton wrappers to the pot, one by one, making sure not to overcrowd.
4. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until dumplings float to the surface.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Clear Corn and Chicken Soup
Soften your senses with this light and refreshing soup, perfect for a cozy evening or as a comforting pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and add the corn kernels, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Clear Herbal Chicken Soup
This nourishing soup is a perfect blend of herbs and chicken that will help to clear your mind, body, and spirit. This recipe is a great way to soothe your senses and recharge your energy.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth
– 2 stalks of fresh lemongrass, chopped
– 2 sprigs of fresh thyme
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon of grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon of ground turmeric
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken, chicken broth, lemongrass, thyme, garlic, ginger, and turmeric.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it into bite-sized pieces.
5. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Clear Clam and Lemongrass Soup
A refreshing and light soup perfect for warm weather, this recipe combines the sweetness of clams with the zesty flavor of lemongrass.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 stalk fresh lemongrass, bruised and sliced
– 1 pound clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add the minced garlic and sliced lemongrass; cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the clams, chicken broth, and water to the pot. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the clams are tender.
5. Remove the pot from the heat and let it cool slightly. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Clear Winter Melon Soup
A refreshing and light soup perfect for the winter season, made with the sweetness of melons and a hint of spices.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups diced winter melon (such as cantaloupe or honeydew)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the diced melon, chicken broth, and heavy cream.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 10-12 minutes or until the soup has reached your desired consistency.
4. Stir in the honey and cumin.
5. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.
6. Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Summary
Discover a refreshing twist on traditional soups with these 20 clear soup recipes perfect for light meals. From Japanese Clear Onion Soup to Korean Miyeok Guk, explore a variety of international flavors and ingredients like chicken, beef, tofu, seafood, and more. These easy-to-make recipes are ideal for warm weather or anytime you need a revitalizing meal that’s both nourishing and delicious.
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