
Asian-style soups and broths are a diverse category of dishes found across East, Southeast, and South Asia, ranging from clear, aromatic broths to rich, complex stews. They typically feature a base of meat, seafood, or vegetable stock infused with ingredients like ginger, garlic, soy sauce, lemongrass, and various herbs and spices. Common examples include Vietnamese Pho, Japanese Miso Soup, Chinese Hot and Sour Soup, and Thai Tom Yum.
These soups are generally low in calories and fat, especially if based on clear broth, and can be a good source of protein if they contain meat, tofu, or eggs. They provide key nutrients like sodium, potassium, and various vitamins from vegetables and herbs, with a typical serving ranging from 50 to 150 calories for a broth-based version.
| Calories | 85 kcal |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Carbs | 10 g |
| Fat | 2 g |
| Fiber | 1.5 g |
| Sugar | 3 g |
| Sodium | 800 mg |
| Potassium | 350 mg |
| Vitamin C | 10 mg |
| Vitamin A | 150 IU |
| Iron | 1.5 mg |
| Calcium | 30 mg |
| Magnesium | 20 mg |
| Phosphorus | 60 mg |
| Manganese | 0.3 mg |
Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
Many Asian soups are deeply integrated into traditional medicine and wellness practices, such as using ginger and garlic in Chinese soups for their warming properties. Nutritionally, they often serve as hydrating, nutrient-dense meals that can aid digestion and provide electrolytes, making them popular for recovery and comfort.