Weekly Buddhist Diet: Vegetarian Hot and Spicy Soup
Weekly Buddhist Diet: Vegetarian Hot and Spicy Soup
First week of June 2026
Summary:
Vegetarian Hot and Spicy Soup is a comforting Northern Chinese specialty known for its rich aroma, warming spices, and hearty texture. This plant-based version replaces traditional meat ingredients with tofu, mushrooms, wood ear mushrooms, and vegetables, creating a flavorful and nourishing soup while maintaining the authentic character of the original dish.
Rich in plant protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, this soup offers both nutrition and satisfaction. The thickened broth coats each ingredient beautifully, while white pepper provides a warming sensation and distinctive fragrance. Perfect for breakfast or a cozy meal on a cool day, this vegetarian version is both wholesome and deeply satisfying.
Ingredients:
· Firm tofu 200 g
· Shiitake mushrooms 5
· Wood ear mushrooms 50 g (soaked)
· Carrot 50 g
· Potato 100 g
· Fresh cilantro leaves as needed
· Light soy sauce 1 tbsp
· White pepper 1 tsp
· Chili powder 1/2 tsp (optional)
· Cornstarch 2 tbsp
· Water 1000 ml
· Salt to taste
· Sesame oil 1 tsp
Instructions:
1. Prepare ingredients
Slice mushrooms, wood ear mushrooms, carrot, and potato into thin strips. Cut tofu into small strips.
2. Cook the soup base
Bring water to a boil and add mushrooms, wood ear mushrooms, carrot, and potato.
3. Simmer
Cook over medium-low heat for about 10 minutes.
4. Add tofu
Add tofu and simmer for another 3 minutes.
5. Season
Add soy sauce, salt, white pepper, and chili powder.
6. Thicken the soup
Mix cornstarch with a small amount of water and slowly stir it into the soup until slightly thickened.
7. Finish
Add sesame oil and garnish with cilantro leaves.
8. Serve hot
Serve immediately while hot for the best flavor and aroma.
Plant-Based Wellness Tip
White pepper is the key ingredient that gives this soup its signature warmth and fragrance. Add it gradually to achieve your preferred level of spice. Additional ingredients such as bean curd sticks, enoki mushrooms, or tofu skin can be added for extra texture and nutrition.
Eat healthy, enjoy plant-based meals every week!
