Are you looking for a light and refreshing meal option that’s also packed with nutrients? Look no further than these 20 delicious clear soup recipes! Clear soups are perfect for hot summer days or anytime you need a quick pick-me-up. From classic Japanese onion soup to spicy Thai Tom Yum, we’ve got a variety of options to suit every taste and dietary preference.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world, exploring the flavors and techniques that make these clear soups so special. Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting and familiar or adventurous and new, there’s something on this list for everyone. So grab your favorite soup pot and let’s get started!
Classic Japanese Clear Onion Soup
Classic Japanese Clear Onion Soup Recipe
This traditional Japanese soup is a staple in many households, known for its simplicity and rich flavor profile. This recipe yields a clear and flavorful broth that’s perfect for warming up on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 4 cups water
– 1/2 cup dashi powder (or 2 cups dashi liquid)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sake (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine sliced onions and water. Bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 30 minutes, or until the onions are tender and the liquid has reduced slightly.
3. Add dashi powder (or dashi liquid), soy sauce, and sake (if using) to the pot. Stir well to combine.
4. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with thinly sliced green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Vietnamese Pho Ga (Clear Chicken Noodle Soup)
A refreshing and comforting Vietnamese classic, Pho Ga is a popular street food in Vietnam that’s easy to make at home. This recipe yields a clear broth with tender chicken and springy noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce (optional)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 inch ginger, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 8 ounces rice noodles
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken broth, fish sauce (if using), soy sauce, onion, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
2. Add the chicken to the pot and cook until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean pot. Discard solids.
5. Add rice vinegar, water, and black pepper to the broth. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
6. Serve hot with cooked noodles and garnish with chopped herbs (such as cilantro or basil) if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chinese Egg Drop Clear Soup
A classic Chinese soup, Egg Drop Clear Soup is a comforting and nourishing dish that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. This recipe yields a crystal-clear broth filled with tender eggs and delicate flavors.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable stock
– 2 large egg whites
– 1 teaspoon cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring the stock to a boil in a medium saucepan.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg whites and cornstarch until smooth.
3. Gradually pour the egg mixture into the boiling stock while stirring gently with a spoon.
4. Continue cooking for 5-7 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly and the eggs have set.
5. Remove from heat and add soy sauce (if using) and salt to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Thai Clear Tom Yum Soup
This refreshing Thai soup is a perfect blend of spicy and sour flavors, made with a flavorful broth and an array of colorful ingredients. Enjoy the simplicity of this recipe to make a delicious and authentic Tom Yum soup.
Ingredients:
• 2 cups water
• 1/2 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, green beans, snow peas)
• 1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine water, mushrooms, lemon juice, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
2. Add mixed vegetables, white pepper, and salt. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
3. Strain the soup through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean pot, discarding solids.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Simple Clear Vegetable Broth
This recipe yields a light and refreshing vegetable broth that’s perfect as a base for soups, sauces, or simply as a healthy drink on its own. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal cooking time, you can have a delicious and nutritious broth ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 carrots, chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 4 cups water
– 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the chopped carrots, celery, and garlic.
2. Pour in the water and add the sea salt. Bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 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. Let the broth cool before refrigerating or freezing.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Clear Miso Soup with Tofu and Wakame
This classic Japanese soup is a staple of the cuisine, and this recipe makes it easy to prepare at home. Clear miso soup is a comforting and nutritious option for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup white miso paste
– 1 block firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 1/4 cup wakame seaweed, rehydrated and sliced
– 2 green onions, thinly sliced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine vegetable broth and miso paste. Whisk until smooth.
2. Add tofu, wakame, green onions, and ginger to the pot. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and let soup cook for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
4. Serve hot, garnished with additional green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Russian Clear Borscht
This traditional Russian soup recipe showcases a vibrant red beet color with no tomatoes or beets cooked into the broth, making it a clear and refreshing twist on the classic borscht. This light and flavorful soup is perfect for warm weather or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beets
– 1 large onion
– 3 cups beef broth
– 1 cup water
– 2 tablespoons white vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh dill, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Boil the beets in their skin until tender. Let cool, then peel and grate.
2. In a large pot, sauté the onion in a little water until translucent.
3. Add the grated beets, beef broth, water, vinegar, sugar, and salt to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh dill if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Clear Chicken Consommé with Herbs
This classic French recipe is a masterclass in simplicity, allowing the delicate flavors of chicken and herbs to shine through in a crystal-clear broth. With just a few ingredients and some gentle coaxing, you’ll be rewarded with a comforting and flavorful soup that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh thyme, chopped
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken, broth, onion, garlic, parsley, thyme, and bay leaf.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes or until the liquid has reduced by half.
3. Strain the consommé through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean pot, discarding solids.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Japanese Clear Seafood Soup
A refreshing and light Japanese-inspired soup that showcases the delicate flavors of seafood, perfect for a warm day or as a starter for a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sake (Japanese rice wine)
– 1 tablespoon mirin (sweet Japanese cooking wine)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, fish), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups dashi broth (or substitute with chicken or fish stock)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
2. Add seafood and cook until pink and just cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Pour in dashi broth, soy sauce, sake, and mirin. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let soup cook for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Clear Mushroom and Ginger Soup
This recipe yields a light and refreshing soup that showcases the earthy flavors of mushrooms and ginger. Perfect for a cozy evening or as a starter for a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start browning, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the grated ginger and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
3. Pour in the broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the soup has reduced slightly.
4. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender and blend in batches, then return it to the pot.
5. If desired, stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half to add a creamy texture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Clear Lentil and Lemon Soup
This refreshing soup is perfect for a light and nourishing meal on a warm day. The combination of tender lentils, bright citrus flavor, and aromatic spices will leave you feeling satisfied and revitalized.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
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 garlic, cumin, and smoked paprika (if using) and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Stir in lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Clear Spinach and Garlic Soup
A refreshing and healthy soup that’s perfect for a light lunch or as a starter. This recipe is easy to make and packed with nutrients from the spinach and garlic.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Freshly ground nutmeg, to taste (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the garlic in a little bit of oil until fragrant.
2. Add the spinach leaves and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender and puree until smooth.
6. Return the soup to the pot and stir in the heavy cream.
7. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Clear Fish Broth with Lemongrass
This refreshing and aromatic broth is a perfect base for various fish dishes or enjoyed on its own as a light soup. With the subtle flavor of lemongrass, it’s sure to transport you to the sun-kissed coastlines of Southeast Asia.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds fish bones (any white fish works well)
– 4 cups water
– 1 stalk lemongrass, bruised
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Combine fish bones, water, lemongrass, garlic, and ginger in a large pot.
2. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes.
3. Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean pot or container. Discard solids.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Use immediately or store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Clear Beef Noodle Soup (Taiwanese Style)
A comforting and flavorful Taiwanese-style noodle soup that’s easy to make and perfect for a quick dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef bones (you can use leftover bones from a roast)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 cups water
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 8 ounces noodles (thin, flat rice noodles or egg noodles work well)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the beef bones in the oven for 30 minutes.
3. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the roasted bones, beef broth, water, soy sauce, and sesame oil to the pot.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1 hour.
6. Cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
7. Strain the soup through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean pot; discard the solids.
8. Add the cooked noodles to the soup and season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Clear Pumpkin and Coconut Soup
Warm up with this comforting and nourishing soup that combines the sweetness of pumpkin with the creaminess of coconut milk.
Ingredients:
– 1 small to medium-sized pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 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 onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic, pumpkin, broth, and cumin. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the pumpkin is tender.
3. Use an immersion blender (or transfer the soup to a blender in batches) to puree the soup until smooth.
4. Stir in coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Clear Tomato Basil Soup
This recipe yields a vibrant and flavorful soup that showcases the sweetness of tomatoes and freshness of basil. Perfect for a light lunch or as a starter, this clear tomato basil soup is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of diced tomatoes)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chopped tomatoes, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
5. Stir in the chopped basil and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Clear Wonton Soup
This recipe makes a light and refreshing Clear Wonton Soup that’s perfect for any occasion. With its delicate broth and tender wontons, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
– 1/2 cup wontons (store-bought or homemade)
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine chicken broth, water, and cornstarch. Whisk until smooth.
2. Add soy sauce, sesame oil, and white pepper. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Cook wontons according to package instructions or your own recipe.
4. Add cooked wontons to the broth and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Clear Carrot and Coriander Soup
This refreshing soup is perfect for a light and healthy meal on a warm day. The sweetness of the carrots pairs beautifully with the earthy flavor of coriander, making it a delightful and easy-to-make option.
Ingredients:
– 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the chopped carrots, coriander, and broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the carrots are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender to puree until smooth.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Clear Clam Chowder
A classic New England-style clam chowder, this recipe is a staple for any seafood lover. With its rich flavors and tender clams, it’s perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 1 cup clam juice
– 1/2 cup milk or cream
– 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add clams, clam juice, milk or cream, and Old Bay seasoning.
4. Bring to a simmer and cook until clams are tender, about 10-12 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Clear Ginger and Scallion Soup
This refreshing soup is a perfect blend of spicy and savory flavors, featuring the bold taste of ginger and the crunch of scallions. Serve it as an appetizer or a light meal on its own.
Ingredients:
– 2 inches fresh ginger, sliced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine ginger slices and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
2. Add chopped scallions, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil to the pot. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
3. Strain the soup through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean pot or bowl, discarding solids.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Summary
Discover the art of clear soups with these refreshing and light meal ideas. From Classic Japanese Clear Onion Soup to Thai Clear Tom Yum Soup, explore a diverse range of international flavors. Other standouts include Chinese Egg Drop Clear Soup, Russian Clear Borscht, and Simple Clear Vegetable Broth. These easy-to-make recipes showcase the beauty of clear soups, perfect for hot summer days or as a comforting pick-me-up any time of year. Get creative with herbs, spices, and ingredients to create your own signature soup styles.
