Warming Tomato & Tofu Soup: A High\-Protein, Low\-Calorie Winter Comfort

Warming Tomato & Tofu Soup: A High-Protein, Low-Calorie Winter Comfort

This delightful soup harmonizes the tangy sweetness of tomatoes with the silken tenderness of tofu, offering both warmth and a perfect alignment with modern healthy eating principles. Ideal for chilly days when you crave comfort without compromising nutrition, it strikes a beautiful balance between flavor and wellness.

Ingredients (Serves 2)

Main:

2 ripe tomatoes (~300g), cut into 2cm cubes

1 box (350g) soft lüdoufu (silken tofu)

2 eggs

500ml water

Seasonings:

1 tsp extra-virgin olive oil ¼ tsp sea salt

¼ tsp chicken bouillon (optional)

Freshly ground white pepper, to taste

Garnish:

5–6 sprigs cilantro, chopped

1 spring onion, white part minced, green part thinly sliced

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Ingredients:

Lightly beat eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper until just combined (avoid overmixing to prevent bubbles).

Build Flavor:

Heat olive oil in a pot over medium-low. Sauté minced spring onion whites until fragrant and golden.

Add tomato cubes, increase to medium heat, and cook for 5 minutes, gently pressing to release juices. (For less ripe tomatoes, extend to 8 minutes or add 1 tbsp tomato paste.)

Simmer the Broth:

Pour in water, bring to a boil, then simmer for 5 minutes to deepen the flavor.

Carefully break tofu into irregular chunks with your hands (rinse hands to prevent sticking) and add to the pot. Simmer for 2 minutes until warmed through.

Perfect the Egg Ribbons:

Key step: Turn off the heat. Slowly drizzle egg liquid along the pot’s edge—do not stir—then cover and let residual heat cook the eggs for 1 minute. Gently fluff into delicate clouds with chopsticks.

Finish & Serve:

Garnish with cilantro and spring onion greens.

Pro Tips

Tomatoes: Choose organic, deeply red ones with star-patterned bottoms for natural sweetness.

Tofu: Rinse hands to handle silken tofu easily.

Eggs: Pour off-heat for velvety ribbons; stir gently in circles for finer strands.

Flavor Boost: Add 2–3 drops of sesame oil or dried shrimp for umami.

Nutrition Upgrades

Protein: Toss in 50g shrimp or shredded chicken.

Fiber: Stir in 50g enoki mushrooms or spinach.

Vitamins: Sauté carrot dice with the tomatoes.

Low-Carb: Serve with cauliflower rice.

Storage & Reheating

Best fresh: Eggs and tofu degrade when stored.

Without eggs: Refrigerate for up to 1 day; reheat gently to preserve texture.

Eggs: Add freshly when reheating.

FAQ

Q: Can I use firm tofu?

A: Yes, but blanch first to remove beany taste. Texture will be denser.

Q: Vegan version?

A: Omit eggs; add mushrooms and soft tofu for layers.

Q: Too thin?

A: Thicken naturally with ¼ tsp almond flour or coconut flour (avoid starch).

Why This Soup Shines

A symphony of simplicity—bright tomatoes, cloud-like tofu, and ethereal egg ribbons—creates a soothing, nutrient-packed bowl. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s a hug in a dish for chilly mornings or weary evenings. With high protein and low calories, it’s proof that healthful eating can be deeply satisfying.