Name: Ginger Garlic Noodle Soup with Bok Choy Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 3 shallots, diced; 1 bunch green onions, chopped (white and green parts divided); 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, minced; 5.5 cups low sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegan option); 2 whole star anise; 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or Tamari for gluten free option); 10 oz crimini mushrooms, sliced; 6 oz rice noodles; 1.5 heads bok choy, roughly chopped; Sesame seeds, for garnish; Green parts of green onions, for garnish; Red pepper flakes, for garnish (optional)

Jump to Recipe·4 from 7 reviews

There is something truly magical about a bowl of hot, soul-soothing soup, especially when it is bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors. The Ginger Garlic Noodle Soup with Bok Choy Recipe is exactly that kind of dish—comforting, nutritious, and packed with layers of zesty ginger, aromatic garlic, earthy mushrooms, and crisp baby bok choy. This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy days when you crave something wholesome without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you want a vegetarian delight or a canvas for adding your favorite protein, this noodle soup is a delicious way to warm you up from the inside out.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A metal pot filled with a soup that has several layers; at the bottom, clear brown broth with bits of herbs and chopped green onions, above that leafy green bok choy pieces spread around, some white and light green inner parts of the bok choy visible, topped with light-colored shredded chicken and scattered bright green cilantro leaves, with thin noodles mixed in the broth and some red chili flakes sprinkled on top. The pot is placed on a stove with a wooden surface background, next to a white tray holding black and white cooking utensils. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Believing that simplicity is key, this recipe uses a handful of fresh, affordable ingredients that each play an essential role in building a rich, flavorful soup. From the ginger and garlic that awaken your senses to the vibrant bok choy that delivers refreshing crunch and color, every element counts.

Olive oil: Provides a light, fruity base to sauté aromatics and infuse flavor.
Shallots: Adds subtle sweetness and depth to the broth.
Green onions: White parts give punchy sharpness while green parts make a fresh garnish.
Garlic: Brings warm, pungent notes essential for complexity.
Fresh ginger: Offers bright, spicy zing that comforts and invigorates.
Low sodium chicken or vegetable broth: Forms the nourishing, savory liquid base.
Star anise: Imparts a gentle licorice-like aroma, elevating the soup’s fragrance.
Soy sauce or tamari: Boosts umami flavor and adds a touch of saltiness.
Crimini mushrooms: Introduce meaty texture and earthy undertones.
Rice noodles: Soft, slippery strands that absorb all the delicious broth.
Bok choy: Leafy greens that add freshness, crunch, and vibrant color.
Sesame seeds: Nutty, crunchy topping that adds visual appeal and texture.
Red pepper flakes: Optional spicy kick for those who love heat.

How to Make Ginger Garlic Noodle Soup with Bok Choy Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Begin by warming olive oil in a medium stockpot over medium heat. Toss in the diced shallots and cook until they become soft and translucent, about 4 to 5 minutes. This stage unlocks the sweet, mellow flavors that will lay the foundation for the soup.

Step 2: Add Garlic, Ginger, and White Onion Parts

Next, mix in the finely chopped white parts of the green onions, minced garlic, and fresh ginger. Sauté gently for 1 to 2 minutes until the kitchen fills with the irresistible fragrance of garlic and ginger marrying perfectly with shallots. This aromatic trio is the heart of the Ginger Garlic Noodle Soup with Bok Choy Recipe.

Step 3: Simmer the Broth

Carefully pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, stirring to deglaze the pot. Add star anise and soy sauce, then cover and let it simmer gently for 10 minutes. This allows the broth to become infused with the warm spice and savory depth everyone craves in a comforting soup.

Step 4: Finalize with Mushrooms, Noodles, and Bok Choy

Remove the star anise from the broth, then add sliced crimini mushrooms, uncooked rice noodles, and chopped bok choy. Simmer until the noodles are tender and the bok choy softens but stays slightly crisp—usually about 5 to 8 minutes. Season to taste. This careful timing ensures perfect textures and vibrant flavors.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Divide the soup into bowls and sprinkle generously with sesame seeds, the reserved green parts of the green onions, and red pepper flakes if you prefer a touch of heat. Each spoonful delivers a perfect harmony of flavors and textures that will keep you coming back for more.

How to Serve Ginger Garlic Noodle Soup with Bok Choy Recipe

A white bowl filled with a light brown broth holds a nest of thin white noodles in the center. On top of the noodles are green chopped scallions and sesame seeds scattered around, along with red chili flakes. Around the noodles are bright green bok choy leaves and slices of brown mushrooms, some slightly soaked in the broth. A white ceramic soup spoon rests inside the bowl, partially submerged in the broth. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes transform this soup into a feast for the eyes and palate. Sesame seeds offer nuttiness and crunch, green onion tops bring freshness and color, while a pinch of red pepper flakes adds exciting warmth. For a twist, try chopped fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime to brighten up each bowl.

Side Dishes

This soup shines as a cozy main, but if you want to round out your meal, steamed dumplings or spring rolls complement it beautifully. Light vegetable stir-fries or a crisp cucumber salad also balance the warm, savory broth with fresh, crunchy textures.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond the bowl! Serve the soup in rustic mugs for a fun lunch or in pretty glass cups to showcase the vibrant ingredients layered inside. You can also customize with extras like cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu to make it heartier without losing the essence of this beloved Ginger Garlic Noodle Soup with Bok Choy Recipe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover ginger garlic noodle soup in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it a fantastic quick meal solution for busy nights or lunches.

Freezing

While the broth and vegetables freeze well, the noodles and bok choy can become mushy after thawing. For best results, freeze the broth separately and add freshly cooked noodles and greens when reheating to keep textures perfect.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a little water or broth if the soup has thickened. If you froze the broth without noodles, cook fresh rice noodles and bok choy separately and combine them just before serving for a fresh experience.

FAQs

Can I make this Ginger Garlic Noodle Soup with Bok Choy Recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Simply swap out chicken broth for vegetable broth and choose tamari instead of soy sauce to keep it both vegan and gluten-free. The mushrooms and greens provide plenty of flavor and texture on their own.

What kind of noodles work best for this soup?

Rice noodles are ideal because they cook quickly and absorb the savory broth wonderfully. If you like, you can substitute with soba noodles or even thin egg noodles according to your preference.

Is star anise necessary for the recipe?

Star anise adds a subtle sweet and licorice note that enhances the broth’s complexity, but if you’re not a fan or don’t have any on hand, using a cinnamon stick as a substitute works wonderfully to maintain depth.

Can I add protein to make this more filling?

Yes! Adding cooked chicken or shrimp about five minutes before serving is a simple way to boost protein without changing the soup’s character. Tofu is also a great vegetarian protein addition.

How spicy is this soup and can I adjust it?

The soup itself is mild and comforting. Red pepper flakes are optional and let you control the spice level. Feel free to add more or less according to your taste or leave them out entirely.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for an easy, quick recipe that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, you can’t go wrong with this Ginger Garlic Noodle Soup with Bok Choy Recipe. It balances healthful ingredients with irresistible flavor and texture, making it a go-to meal any time of year. Gather your ingredients, savor the comforting aromas as you cook, and treat yourself to a bowl of pure delight. You’ll be amazed how something so simple can taste so special.