Plant-Based "Chicken" Noodle Soup

Comfort in a Bowl: Plant-Based Chicken Noodle Soup with Tofu

When the weather turns chilly, nothing hits the spot quite like a warm, comforting bowl of chicken noodle soup. But what if you’re plant-based or just looking to try something new? Fear not! This plant-based "chicken" noodle soup with tofu is here to deliver all the warmth and nostalgia you crave—without the poultry. And the best part? It’s easy to make, hearty, and completely customizable to your taste!

Why Tofu?

*for best results, single layer your tofu on parchment paper

Tofu is an incredible substitute for chicken in soups like this because it soaks up the flavor of the broth while maintaining a satisfying texture. When pressed and sliced properly, tofu mimics the heartiness of chicken, offering the perfect bite. Plus, tofu is a great source of protein, making this soup not only delicious but nourishing as well.

The Magic of Homemade Broth

A rich, flavorful broth is the foundation of any great chicken noodle soup. In this recipe, we’ll create a homemade broth that's packed with savory goodness. It’s easy to make, and I promise you, it’s well worth the extra effort. While store-bought vegetable broth is always an option, making your own allows you to control the flavors and ensure the soup is bursting with depth.

Ingredients:

• 1 block extra-firm tofu (pressed and cubed)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 medium onion, (diced)

• 2 cloves garlic (minced)

• 3 medium carrots (sliced)

• 2 celery stalks (sliced)

• 8 cups vegetable broth

• 1 bay leaf

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric (for color and subtle flavor)

• Salt & pepper to taste

• 2 cups egg-free noodles (or any pasta of choice)

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari (for an umami boost)

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for a fresh kick)

• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Tofu:

Start by pressing your tofu to remove excess moisture—this helps it hold its shape in the soup and soak up the flavors of the broth. You can press it using a tofu press, or simply wrap it in a clean kitchen towel and place a heavy object on top for about 15-20 minutes. Once pressed, cut the tofu into small cubes (about 1-inch squares).

2. Sauté the Veggies:

In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 5 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic, carrots, and celery, and

sauté for another 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables start to soften. This step adds depth

and flavor to the broth.

3. Build the Broth:

Add the vegetable broth to the pot, along with the bay leaf, thyme, turmeric, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and the broth is infused with the herbs.

4. Cook the Tofu:

While the soup simmers, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a little olive oil. Gently sauté the cubed tofu for about 5-7 minutes, until golden brown on all sides. This gives the tofu a crispy exterior, which adds texture to the soup.

5. Add the Noodles & Tofu:

Once the broth is ready, add the noodles and cooked tofu cubes to the pot. Continue simmering until the noodles are cooked through (about 8-10 minutes, depending on the type of noodle). Taste the broth and adjust seasonings as needed, adding soy sauce for depth and a splash of lemon juice for brightness.

6. Serve and Garnish:

Once everything is cooked, remove the pot from heat. Ladle the soup into bowls, making sure to get a good mix of noodles, tofu, and veggies in each serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor.

Tips for Perfecting Your Soup

- Customize the Veggies: Don’t be afraid to experiment! You can add peas, corn, or even spinach to make it your own.

- Add More Protein: If you want even more protein, consider adding a can of chickpeas or white beans to the soup.

- Make It Spicy: A pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce can add a little zing if you like things spicy.

- Make It a Meal: Pair your soup with some crusty bread or a fresh side salad for a complete, satisfying meal.

-Toast your favorite breat as a nice compliment to the soup. My favorite is a fresh baguette from my local farmers market.

Why You’ll Love This Soup

This plant-based chicken noodle soup is everything you want in a cozy bowl of comfort: hearty, flavorful, and soothing. The tofu takes on the role of the "chicken," but the real star is the rich, fragrant broth that ties everything together. Whether you’re a long-time plant-based eater or just exploring new meal ideas, this soup will warm you from the inside out.

So next time you're craving a bowl of chicken noodle soup but want to keep it plant-based, give this recipe a try! It’s a heartwarming classic with a delicious, vegan twist that’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

Happy eating! 🍲🌱