Top 31 Chinese Soups

Malatang is a popular Chinese soup known for its spicy and numbing flavors. Originating from Sichuan province, this hot pot-style soup is a favorite street food in China. The name "malatang" translates to "numbing and spicy soup," which perfectly describes the dish. The soup is made by cooking a variety of ingredients in a flavorful broth. Typically, a wide selection of meats, vegetables, and noodles are available for customization. Customers can choose from an array of ingredients like sliced beef, pork, chicken, tofu, mushrooms, leafy greens, and bean sprouts, among others. The distinguishing feature of malatang is the aromatic and fiery broth. It is made using a combination of Sichuan peppercorns, dried chili peppers, garlic, ginger, and various spices. This combination creates a mouth-numbing sensation known as "ma la" in Chinese. To enjoy malatang, customers select their preferred ingredients and add them to a bowl. The ingredients are then cooked briefly in the boiling broth, allowing them to absorb the bold flavors. Once cooked, the soup is enjoyed piping hot, delivering a spicy kick that awakens the taste buds. 

Bak kut teh is a delightful and fragrant soup. Known as "meat bone tea," this flavorful soup is created by simmering tender pork ribs with a delightful mix of Chinese herbs and spices. The pork ribs are boiled until they become wonderfully soft and succulent, infusing the soup with their heavenly flavors. The soup is further enhanced by a blend of aromatic herbs like star anise, cinnamon, cloves, and dried tangerine peel, resulting in a rich and enticing taste. Additional ingredients such as garlic, mushrooms, tofu, and various vegetables are often added to create a harmonious medley of flavors. To balance out the robustness of the soup, bak kut teh is typically enjoyed with steamed rice.

Hot and Sour Soup, a famous dish in Sichuan cuisine, is highly versatile and can be customized with different ingredients depending on what's available. This traditional Chinese soup, usually made with meat, includes day lily buds, wood ear fungus, bamboo shoots, tofu, and sometimes pork blood, all cooked together in a delicious broth. With the addition of carrots, pork pieces, and a touch of white pepper for spiciness, as well as Zhenjiang vinegar for a tangy twist, this soup delivers a perfect balance of fiery and sour flavors.

Shark fin soup is a traditional Chinese delicacy that has been enjoyed for centuries. The soup is made by using the cartilage-rich fins of sharks, which are first dried and then boiled for several hours to create a flavorful and gelatinous broth. The soup is typically served at special occasions and banquets, as it is considered a luxury dish. Shark fin soup is prized for its unique texture and delicate flavor. The fins, once cooked, become soft and almost translucent, adding a luxurious mouthfeel to the soup. The broth itself is often enhanced with ingredients such as chicken, ham, mushrooms, and various spices, creating a rich and complex flavor profile. However, it is important to note that the consumption of shark fin soup has become controversial due to concerns over the sustainability and ethical implications of shark finning. 

Buddha Jumps Over the Wall is a famous Chinese soup that is renowned for its rich flavors and intricate preparation process. This hearty dish originated from the Fujian province in China and is considered a culinary masterpiece. The soup is named after a legend that says the aroma of the dish was so enticing that even Buddha himself would be tempted to jump over a wall to taste it. The soup consists of a variety of high-quality ingredients, including shark fin, abalone, sea cucumber, fish maw, scallops, mushrooms, chicken, and pork. These ingredients are simmered slowly in a flavorful broth, which is made by boiling chicken, pork bones, and various herbs and spices. The soup is known for its delicate balance of flavors, combining the umami of the seafood with the richness of the meat. 

Egg drop soup, also known as "egg flower soup," is a traditional Chinese soup that is loved for its simplicity, delicate flavor, and comforting qualities. This soup typically consists of a clear chicken or vegetable broth that is seasoned with soy sauce, ginger, and sometimes garlic. The highlight of the dish is the addition of beaten eggs, which are slowly poured into the simmering broth, resulting in beautiful, silky ribbons of cooked egg. The soup is typically garnished with chopped green onions and a drizzle of sesame oil, adding a burst of freshness and aroma. Some variations may include additional ingredients such as sliced mushrooms, tofu, or corn, enhancing the texture and flavor of the soup. Egg drop soup is often enjoyed as a starter or light meal, as it is not only quick and easy to prepare but also low in calories. Its smooth and comforting consistency makes it a popular choice for those seeking a warm and soothing dish. 

Oxtail soup consists of beef tails and the Chinese version of the soup falls between a soup and a stew. Unlike typical Chinese soups with diced or shredded ingredients, oxtail soup contains large solid pieces. It includes chunks of oxtail, potato, carrots, cabbage, tomato, and mushrooms boiled in water and seasoned with salt. The slow boiling process allows the flavors to blend, with tomatoes and potatoes breaking down to thicken the broth and give it a reddish-orange hue. The richness of the soup primarily comes from the oils in the oxtail. It's served with all the ingredients intact.

Beef noodle soup is a hearty soup which consists of tender beef slices that are cooked to perfection and served in a flavorful broth alongside chewy wheat noodles. The broth is typically made by simmering beef bones, spices, and aromatic vegetables for hours, resulting in a deep and savory flavor profile. The beef slices are usually marinated in soy sauce, ginger, and garlic, giving them a delicious and tender texture. The noodles are cooked separately and then added to the broth, absorbing the flavors of the broth as they simmer. To enhance the dish, various toppings are added, such as bok choy, green onions, bean sprouts, and sometimes pickled vegetables. These toppings add freshness and a crunch to the soup. Additionally, chili oil or chili flakes can be added for those who prefer a spicier kick. 

Snake soup is a traditional Chinese delicacy valued for its distinct flavors and purported health benefits. It has a subtly sweet taste attributed to ingredients like chrysanthemum leaves and spices, while the texture and flavor of the snake meat are often compared to chicken. Typically, the recipe includes at least two types of snakes, shredded into thin pieces, boiled with chicken, pork bone, lean meat, fish maw, fungus, ginger, lemon leaves, and other spices for added flavor. This mixture simmers for over six hours to create a thick soup, seasoned with salt, pepper, and dark soy sauce to taste. To achieve its unique consistency, a thickener such as corn starch or water caltrop paste is added, resulting in a dense soup with a clear appearance rather than a thin broth. The specific species of snake used can vary by region, with water snake and python being popular choices, along with others like Chinese cobra, banded krait, Indo-Chinese rat snake, tri-rope beauty snake, and hundred-pace viper commonly used in snake soup recipes.

Lung fung soup, also known as dragon phoenix soup, is a popular Chinese soup that is not only delicious but also visually appealing. This soup is a combination of two main ingredients: shredded chicken and crab meat. The name "dragon phoenix" symbolizes harmony and balance, which is reflected in the combination of these two ingredients. To prepare this soup, the chicken and crab meat are cooked in a flavorful chicken broth along with other ingredients such as mushrooms, bamboo shoots, and tofu. The soup is seasoned with traditional Chinese flavors like ginger, garlic, and soy sauce, which add depth and richness to the dish. The shredded chicken and crab meat give the soup a delightful texture, while the vegetables and tofu add a refreshing crunch. 

Tiger penis soup, as the name suggests, is a traditional Chinese soup that includes tiger penis as one of its key ingredients. This dish has been a part of Chinese culinary culture for centuries and is believed to have various health benefits. The soup is typically prepared by simmering the tiger penis with a combination of other ingredients such as herbs, vegetables, and sometimes even other types of meat. The soup is known for its rich and flavorful broth, which is often enhanced by the unique taste and texture of the tiger penis. In Chinese culture, tiger penis is believed to possess aphrodisiac properties and is commonly consumed to enhance male virility. However, it is important to note that the use of tiger parts in culinary practices has been highly controversial due to concerns about conservation and animal rights. Despite its controversial nature, tiger penis soup continues to be served in some traditional Chinese restaurants and is considered a delicacy by some. 

Hong dou tang, also known as Chinese red bean soup, is a popular dessert soup in Chinese cuisine. It is a sweet and comforting dish made from red beans, water, and sugar. The soup has a deep red color and a smooth, creamy texture. To make Hong dou tang, the red beans are soaked overnight and then simmered with water until they become soft and tender. Sugar is added to sweeten the soup, giving it a delightful sweetness that is not overpowering. Some variations of the soup may also include ingredients like glutinous rice balls or lotus seeds to add texture and flavor. This traditional Chinese dessert soup is enjoyed hot or cold, depending on personal preference. It is commonly served as a sweet treat after meals or during special occasions and festivals. 

Duck blood and vermicelli soup is a cherished traditional dish originating from Nanjing. The soup comprises duck blood, vermicelli, dried fried tofu, dried small shrimp, duck gizzards, duck intestines, duck livers, scallions, and coriander. Authentic versions of this soup incorporate over twenty Chinese herbal medicines. The vermicelli, made from sweet potato, contributes to the soup's smooth, soft, waxy texture and delightful taste. Key ingredients like duck blood, dried fried tofu, dried small shrimps, duck gizzards, duck intestines, and duck livers are complemented by salt, shallots, ginger, sesame oil, and caraway, enhancing the dish's flavor profile. This soup, with its array of ingredients, not only entices visually but also tantalizes the senses with its aroma and rich flavors.

Pork blood soup is a traditional Chinese soup that incorporates pork blood as the main ingredient. This soup is highly regarded for its unique flavor and nutritional benefits. To prepare this dish, pork blood is first collected and coagulated. It is then sliced into small pieces and added to a broth made from pork bones, ginger, and various seasonings. The soup is simmered for a period of time, allowing the flavors to meld together. The resulting soup has a rich, savory taste with a slightly iron-like undertone from the pork blood. It is often garnished with green onions and cilantro to add freshness and a pop of color. 

Hulatang, originating from the Henan region of China, has become a favored breakfast choice in the northern parts of the country. This soup typically comprises beef, vermicelli noodles, ginger, vinegar, flour, and an assortment of vegetables like potatoes, carrots, zucchini, cauliflower, and spinach. Its notable features include a thick, sticky consistency and a spicy kick, achieved through generous amounts of black pepper and chili powder. Traditionally, hulatang is served alongside Chinese steamed flatbread, torn into pieces to soak up the flavorful broth. Additional accompaniments may include green onion pie, deep-fried dough sticks, and toppings like coriander or sesame/chili oil,

Cantonese seafood soup is a traditional dish that showcases the rich flavors of fresh seafood combined with a delicate and aromatic broth. Typically, the soup has a dense consistency with a velvety smooth texture, achieved by incorporating starch as a thickener. It commonly displays a pale whitish hue, often with a slight transparency. The base of the soup is typically made from a combination of chicken or pork broth, infused with various herbs and spices such as ginger and garlic. This creates a fragrant and savory broth that forms the foundation of the dish. A variety of fresh seafood ingredients that are added to the soup. This can include succulent shrimp, tender fish fillets, plump scallops, and even chunks of crab or lobster. These ingredients are carefully cooked in the broth, allowing the flavors to meld together and create a harmonious seafood medley. To enhance the taste and texture, other ingredients such as mushrooms, tofu, and leafy greens may also be added. The soup is typically finished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs such as cilantro or green onions, adding a vibrant touch to the dish.

Ching bo leung, translating to "refreshing, nourishing, cool," is a chilled dessert soup originating from China. This sweet concoction typically consists of Chinese pearl barley grains (yi mai), dried longans, red jujubes, lotus seeds, and thinly sliced seaweed, blended with water, sugar, and crushed ice. Occasionally, pearl barley may replace yi mai, and ingredients like ginger, ginseng root, wolfberries, or ginkgo nuts might be added. Served in tall glasses, although labeled as a drink, it's more accurately described as a soup since solid ingredients necessitate a spoon for consumption.

Sweet potato soup is a dessert originating from Southern China, characterized by its thin texture and intense flavor. The preparation is straightforward, involving boiling sweet potatoes for an extended period along with rock candy and ginger.. Sweet potato soup is not only delicious but also highly nutritious. Sweet potatoes are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that promote good health. They are also a great source of fiber, making this soup a filling and satisfying meal. 

Chinese sago soup is a popular and refreshing dessert soup that originates from southern China. It is made from sago pearls, which are small translucent balls made from the starch of the sago palm tree. The soup has a gelatinous texture and is typically sweetened with rock sugar or honey. To prepare Chinese sago soup, the sago pearls are first soaked in water to soften them. Then, they are boiled in a pot until they turn transparent and become tender. The cooked sago pearls are then combined with a flavorful broth made from ingredients such as coconut milk, pandan leaves, and sugar. Some variations of the soup may include additional ingredients like fruits, such as mango or lychee, for added sweetness and texture. Chinese sago soup is often served chilled and makes for a delightful dessert or snack, especially during hot summer months. Its smooth and jelly-like consistency, combined with the subtle sweetness of the broth, creates a light and refreshing treat. 

Chinese lettuce soup is a popular and refreshing dish that is commonly enjoyed in Chinese cuisine. This light and healthy soup features crisp lettuce leaves, which are simmered in a flavorful broth until tender and infused with a delicate taste. The soup is typically made using a combination of lettuce, chicken or vegetable broth, and various seasonings. To prepare the soup, the lettuce is first washed and sliced into bite-sized pieces. It is then briefly stir-fried in a hot wok to enhance its natural flavors. Next, the lettuce is added to the simmering broth, along with other ingredients such as garlic, ginger, and sometimes mushrooms or tofu. The soup is seasoned with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to enhance its taste. It is commonly served as a light appetizer or a side dish to accompany a main meal. The crisp texture of the lettuce contrasts beautifully with the smoothness of the broth, creating a delightful harmony of flavors and textures. Chinese lettuce soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a popular choice for health-conscious individuals. Its light and refreshing nature make it a perfect choice for hot summer days or as a comforting dish during colder months.

Geng, a staple of Chinese cuisine, is a thick soup or stew characterized by its hearty and flavorful broth. Typically prepared with a variety of ingredients such as meat, vegetables, and tofu, geng offers a diverse array of flavors and textures. The dish often features aromatic spices like ginger, garlic, and star anise, adding depth and complexity to its taste profile. Geng can be customized based on regional preferences, with popular variations including beef geng, chicken geng, and vegetarian geng. Served piping hot, this comforting dish is enjoyed throughout China as a satisfying and nourishing meal, especially during cooler months.

Chinese Corn Crab Soup is a delicious and comforting dish that combines the sweetness of corn with the savory flavor of crab. This soup is a popular choice in Chinese cuisine, known for its simplicity and rich taste. To prepare this dish, fresh corn kernels are simmered in a flavorful broth, along with succulent crab meat. The broth is typically made by boiling chicken or vegetable stock, then adding aromatic ingredients such as ginger, garlic, and scallions. The corn kernels are then added to the broth, infusing it with their natural sweetness. Crab meat is an essential ingredient in this soup, providing a delicate and briny flavor that complements the sweetness of the corn. The crab meat is usually added towards the end of the cooking process to preserve its tenderness and flavor. Chinese Corn Crab Soup is often garnished with fresh cilantro or chopped scallions, adding a vibrant touch to the dish. 

Patriotic Soup is a vegetable soup that showcases traditional flavors. While the original recipe includes sweet potato leaves, there are variations that incorporate amaranth, spinach, ipomoea aquatica, and an assortment of leafy greens. Different broths, such as beef or chicken, can also be used. To enhance the taste, beaten eggs, shredded dry-cured ham, tofu, and cellophane noodles are commonly added. Nevertheless, the most genuine version of this soup is typically homemade, featuring only leafy vegetables, edible mushrooms, and vegetable broth.

Chinese tomato and egg soup is a classic comfort dish that is loved by many for its simplicity and delicious flavors. This soup is made with fresh tomatoes, eggs, and a few basic seasonings, resulting in a light and refreshing dish that is perfect for any time of the year. To make this soup, ripe tomatoes are first blanched and then peeled to remove the skin. The tomatoes are then chopped into small pieces and simmered in a flavorful broth until they become soft and tender. In a separate bowl, eggs are beaten and slowly added to the simmering soup, creating beautiful ribbons of cooked egg throughout. The soup is seasoned with a touch of salt, sugar, and white pepper, enhancing the natural sweetness of the tomatoes. Some variations of this soup may also include additional ingredients such as scallions, ginger, or even tofu for added texture and flavor. 

Chicken and duck blood soup is a traditional Chinese dish that dates back centuries. It is prepared by simmering chicken and duck blood along with various chicken organs and additional body parts. The soup is known for its distinctive sour-spicy flavor profile,. The soup is typically seasoned with a variety of spices, such as ginger, garlic, and soy sauce, to enhance its savory taste. The soup is often garnished with scallions or cilantro to add a refreshing touch. Chicken and duck blood soup is popular for its bold and hearty flavor.

Chinese walnut soup is a traditional and popular dessert soup in Chinese cuisine. This delightful dish is made from walnuts, rock sugar, water, and sometimes additional ingredients like lotus seeds or dried longan. The soup is known for its creamy texture and nutty flavor, which is both comforting and indulgent. To prepare the walnut soup, the walnuts are first soaked in water to remove the bitterness, then blended with fresh water to create a smooth and creamy base. The mixture is then cooked over low heat with rock sugar until it thickens and becomes fragrant. The addition of lotus seeds or dried longan adds additional texture and sweetness to the soup. Chinese walnut soup is not only delicious but also highly nutritious. 

Ginseng Chicken Soup is a revered traditional dish celebrated for its nourishing properties and delicate flavors. It features tender chicken, often a whole young bird, simmered with premium ginseng, jujubes, ginger, and other aromatic herbs and spices. The result is a rich and aromatic broth infused with the earthy essence of ginseng, believed to enhance vitality and promote well-being. 

Egg tong sui, a beloved sweet soup in Cantonese cuisine, resembles a sugary rendition of egg drop soup. Esteemed for its traditional and homely appeal, it's a rarity in restaurant menus. The recipe is uncomplicated, calling for water, chicken eggs, and sugar to be boiled together. Eggs are cracked directly into the boiling water without prior mixing, ensuring simplicity. Served exclusively hot, this comforting dish embodies the essence of home-cooked meals and is cherished for its simplicity and warmth.

Xidoufen, a cherished Chinese soup hailing from Yunnan province, is made by simmering pea meal. This delightful soup is enhanced with the aromatic blend of crushed garlic, ginger, coriander, spring onion, dry chili flakes, and Sichuan pepper oil. Traditionally, it is savored alongside deep-fried youtiao or Chinese flatbreads, with 'cong you bing' being a favored accompaniment.

Liver soup is a popular dish in Chinese cuisine that is known for its rich and savory flavor. This soup is made using fresh pork liver, which is sliced into thin pieces and then cooked in a flavorful broth. The broth is typically made with a combination of chicken or pork stock, ginger, garlic, and various aromatic spices. Chinese liver soup is often served with a variety of vegetables, such as bok choy, mushrooms, and bean sprouts, which add texture and freshness to the dish. Some variations of this soup also include ingredients like tofu or noodles, which make it more filling and satisfying. 

Wenzhou pig intestines rice noodle soup is a traditional dish hailing from Wenzhou, China, specifically in the Zhejiang region. It features rice noodles, pig intestines, and either duck or pig blood as its key ingredients. The intestines are simmered with aromatic seasonings like rice wine, soy sauce, ginger, soybean paste, or garlic until they reach a tender texture. The blood, often in a congealed form like pig blood curd, is then incorporated into the broth along with the noodles. Finally, the soup is garnished with fresh scallions to add a burst of flavor.