Tofu Hot Pot Soup

From http://www.merechina.com/cuisine/onerecipe.asp?PageID=523 (no longer an active link), modified by Corina


2 t olive oil (or peanut oil)

2 T grated fresh ginger

6 cloves garlic, minced

1 T brown sugar

4 C broth (warm water)

1/4 C Bragg’s (or soy sauce)

2 t cayenne pepper (or Chinese chile paste to taste)

1 lb. firm tofu, cut into 1-inch cubes

1/2 lb. fresh Chinese style noodles (lo mein)
1 T fresh squeezed lemon juice

1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro 


• Heat oil over medium heat. Add ginger and garlic and cook about 4 minutes.

• Add tofu and fry about 4 minutes.

• Stir in sugar, broth, soy sauce, lemon juice, and chile paste; cover and bring to a boil.

• Turn heat to high and add noodles, pushing them down into broth. Cook, covered, until noodles are tender, about 2-3 minutes.

• Remove from heat, stir in cilantro and serve.