Sichuan Pepper Soup

Sichuan Pepper Soup is a fragrant and zesty vegetarian dish that showcases the unique numbing flavor of Sichuan peppercorns. This aromatic soup combines fresh vegetables and delicate spices to create a warming and comforting bowl perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

• Sichuan peppercorns - 1 tablespoon
• Vegetable broth - 500 ml
• Tofu (firm) - 150 grams, cubed
• Mushrooms (shiitake or button) - 100 grams, sliced
• Carrot - 1 medium, julienned
• Bell pepper (red or yellow) - 1 medium, sliced
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Ginger - 1 teaspoon, grated
• Spring onions - 2, chopped
• Soy sauce - 2 tablespoons
• Sesame oil - 1 tablespoon
• Cornstarch - 1 tablespoon (mixed with 2 tablespoons water to make a slurry)
• Salt - to taste
• Black pepper - to taste
• Fresh cilantro - for garnish

Steps

1. In a dry pan over medium heat, toast the Sichuan peppercorns for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat and crush lightly.
2. In a pot, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
4. Add the sliced mushrooms, julienned carrot, and sliced bell pepper to the pot. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
5. Stir in the cubed tofu, soy sauce, and crushed Sichuan peppercorns. Let simmer for another 5 minutes.
6. Add the cornstarch slurry to the soup, stirring gently to thicken. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
7. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Remove from heat.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped spring onions and fresh cilantro.

Nutrition

• Calories: 220
• Protein: 12 g
• Carbs: 25 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in antioxidants from vegetables and spices.
• Contains protein from tofu, supporting muscle health.

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