Chinese Noodle Soup

Chinese Noodle Soup is a warming and satisfying dish featuring tender noodles served in a fragrant broth infused with aromatics and soy sauce. Perfect for quick meals, it’s endlessly adaptable with your choice of vegetables, protein, and seasonings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare and ready in under 20 minutes
• Packed with comforting flavors and nourishing ingredients
• One-pot meal with minimal cleanup
• Easily customizable with your favorite add-ins
• Great for using up leftovers or pantry staples

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Noodles (rice noodles, wheat noodles, or ramen)
• Chicken or vegetable broth
• Garlic, minced
• Ginger, sliced
• Green onions
• Soy sauce
• Sesame oil
• Optional protein: cooked chicken, tofu, shrimp, or egg
• Optional vegetables: bok choy, spinach, mushrooms, carrots
• Optional garnishes: chili oil, fresh herbs, lime wedges

directions

this recipe

1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a pot, heat a bit of oil and sauté garlic, ginger, and the white parts of the green onions until fragrant.
3. Add the broth and soy sauce. Bring to a simmer.
4. Add vegetables and simmer until just tender.
5. Stir in sesame oil and your choice of protein. Simmer for another 2–3 minutes.
6. Divide the noodles into bowls and ladle the hot soup over them.
7. Garnish with green onions and optional toppings before serving.

Servings and timing

• Serves: 2–4
• Prep time: 5 minutes
• Cook time: 15 minutes
• Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Add a soft-boiled or poached egg on top for richness
• Use miso paste or chili paste to deepen the broth flavor
• Swap out proteins and vegetables depending on availability
• Make it spicy with a spoonful of chili garlic sauce or sriracha
• Try with homemade bone broth for extra depth

storage/reheating

• Store broth and noodles separately in the fridge for up to 4 days
• Reheat broth on the stovetop; add noodles and toppings just before serving
• Avoid freezing noodles, but the broth can be frozen for up to 2 months

FAQs

What type of noodles are best?

Rice noodles, wheat noodles, ramen, or udon all work well depending on your preference.

Can I use store-bought broth?

Yes, just enhance it with aromatics like ginger, garlic, and soy sauce.

How do I keep the noodles from getting soggy?

Cook and store noodles separately, adding them to hot broth only when ready to eat.

Is Chinese noodle soup spicy?

Not by default, but you can add chili oil, fresh chilies, or hot sauce to spice it up.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Absolutely—use vegetable broth and tofu for a delicious meatless version.

How do I add protein?

Add cooked chicken, shrimp, tofu, or crack in an egg while the broth simmers.

What vegetables go well in this soup?

Bok choy, spinach, mushrooms, carrots, and napa cabbage are all great choices.

Can I prepare it in advance?

Yes, make the broth and prep noodles separately. Assemble just before serving.

What if I don’t have fresh ginger?

You can substitute with a small pinch of ground ginger or omit it if needed.

How can I make it more filling?

Add extra protein, a boiled egg, or a handful of cooked dumplings or wontons.

Conclusion

Chinese Noodle Soup is a versatile and soul-soothing dish that comes together quickly with simple ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a satisfying dinner, this recipe is a great way to enjoy a bowl of homemade comfort with bold, customizable flavor.

Print