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Home ยป Recipes ยป Soups

Spicy Asian Noodle Soup

Published: Nov 22, 2024 by Qashang ยท This post may contain affiliate links.

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Pinterest graphic for Asian noodle soup with toppings in a brown bowl.
Pinterest collage for Asian noodle soup.

This spicy Asian Noodle Soup is incredibly quick and easy! Silky egg noodles are soaked in a flavor-packed broth enriched with fresh aromatics, chili paste and Bok choy. It hits all the right notes and is equal parts punchy, satisfying, and absolutely addictive. 

A bowl of Asian noodle soup with bok choy, carrot slices, lime wedges, and cilantro, accompanied by chopsticks and a spoon.

Whenever Iโ€™m short on time, a steaming bowl of this spicy noodle soup in the colder months saves the day. This one-pot banger has me waking up with late-night hunger pangs, and is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.

Table of Content
  • Why This Recipe
  • Ingredients & Substitutions
  • How To Make Asian Noodle Soup
  • Video
  • Helpful Tips
  • Variations
  • Serving Ideas
  • FAQ
  • More Asian Recipes
  • ๐Ÿ“– Recipe

The base of these Asian soups varies widely, from Koreaโ€™s spicy and seafood-rich jjamppong to Vietnamโ€™s herbaceous pho, and Japanโ€™s umami-packed ramen or miso soup.

At the heart of these bowl of soups are noodlesโ€”whether wheat, rice, or buckwheatโ€”combined with broths layered with flavors from aromatics, Asian sauces, chili pastes, and fresh vegetables. 

Craving noodles? Check these out: Chili Oil Noodles, Mongolian Beef Noodles, Yaki Udon with Shrimp, and Spicy Hakka Noodles.

The broth itself doesn't have to be complicated; adding a few key ingredients can elevate the soup in minutes.

A bowl of soup with noodles held by chopsticks above the bowl. It includes leafy greens and a wedge of lime in a red broth.

My spicy Asian noodle soup recipe has silky egg noodles swimming in a bold, spicy and tangy broth, thanks to the magic of fresh ingredients. The way the noodles soak up that rich broth is mesmerizing, while the baby Bok choy adds a fresh crunch that balances the spices beautifully. 

This is one of those super chill, no-brainer recipes that requires zero planning and always delivers. 

A bowl of Asian noodle soup with orange broth in a white soup spoon.

The soup broth, rich with flavors of chili, umami and lime, is perfect for soaking up all kinds of add-ins. Ideal for clearing out that vegetable drawerโ€”plus any noodles you love, from ramen to glass noodles to udon!

You can toss in your favorite proteins, like shredded chicken, tofu, or shrimp, and donโ€™t forget bold toppings like chili oil, cilantro, or lime wedges for that finishing touch. 

Itโ€™s a one pot wonder that adapts to whatever you have on hand.

If you love Chinese soup, try these recipes: 15-Minute Hot and Sour Soup and Chicken Corn Soup!

Why This Recipe

Versatile & Customizable -You can customize the noodle soup to your liking! Throw in leftover veggies, swap out the noodles, enhance with fresh herbs, add more or less umami, spice, or sweetness, or add your favorite protein.

Quick & Easy - The base for this soup comes together in just 5 minutes, delivering a rich, flavorful base with minimal effort. 

One-pot Dish - This is a one-pot recipe, so everything cooks in the same pot, including the noodlesโ€”making it simple and saving on cleanup. 

Ingredients & Substitutions

See recipe card for quantities.

Labeled ingredients for noodle soup on a white background.
  • Noodles - I use quick-cooking egg noodles, but there are plenty of other great options. Instant ramen, udon, rice or even soba noodles work perfectly. 
  • Garlic & Ginger - Only use freshly minced ginger and garlic to infuse the fresh flavours into the broth.
  • Green Onions -  as a mild aromatic in the soupโ€™s base and also provide a crisp, fresh garnish that adds color and texture to the dish.
  • Bok Choy - adds a nice crunch and a mild, slightly sweet flavor. You can replace with the veggies of your choice.
  • Gochujang Paste - This Korean chili paste is the secret ingredient that brings heat, umami, and a bit of sweetness. If you don't have it, you can swap in sriracha, sambal oelek, or even a mix of red pepper flakes and miso paste for a similar kick.
  • Soy Sauce - Stick with all-purpose or light soy sauce here, as dark soy sauce can change the soupโ€™s color and make it too heavy.
  • White Vinegar - adds a tangy sharpness, but you can also use rice vinegar for a milder taste.
  • Sugar - I used brown sugar, feel free to use white one too.
  • Chicken stock - You can use homemade or store-bought, but if you're short on time, water and a stock cube will still do the job!
  • Oil - Vegetable or olive oil both work for this recipe!

Toppings

Labeled toppings for the noodle soup bowl on a white background.
  • Thai chili - Adds a bold, fiery kick, but you can also use jalapenos or serrano peppers for a milder spice.
  • Lime โ€“ A squeeze of lime brightens up this soup wonderfully.
  • Cilantro โ€“ Optional, but adds a fresh touch.
  • Carrot โ€“ Adds a pop of color and a crunchy texture, but itโ€™s optional depending on your preference. Bell pepper would be a nice alternative.
  • Chili oil - A drizzle of chili oil or chili crisp can add heat and depth.
Close-up of spicy noodle soup with chili oil, bok choy, lime, spoon and chopsticks.

Other garnish ideas: Grilled chicken, a soft-boiled egg, pickled ginger, toasted sesame seeds, pickled radishes or even a sprinkle of crispy fried shallots for added texture and flavor! You can even toss on a handful of chopped peanuts or drizzle with toasted sesame oil for an earthy, nutty finish.

How To Make Asian Noodle Soup

This easy Asian Noodle Soup recipe takes just 10 minutes to come together:

Ginger, garlic and green onion sautรฉing in a Dutch pot.

Step 1: Sautรฉ ginger, garlic, and green onion whites in heated oil until fragrant.

Soup broth in a Dutch pot.

Step 2: Add gochujang, soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, and chicken stock; bring to a boil.

Uncooked egg noodles with soup broth in a Dutch pot.

Step 3: Throw in the noodles and cook a minute less than package directions

Noodle soup with bok choy in a Dutch pot.

Step 4: Then stir in bok choy and turn off heat.  

A bowl of noodle soup with toppings and some orange broth in the soup spoon.

Step 5: Serve the noodle soup with sliced red pepper, lime, cilantro, sliced carrots, and chili oil on top.  

Video

Helpful Tips

  • It's important not to let the noodles sit in the soup base for too long or overcook them. It will make them absorb too much liquid and become starchy, thickening the soup unnecessarily. To avoid this, add the noodles just before serving and cook them a minute less than the package instructions.
  • For the best flavor, homemade stock is unbeatableโ€”it adds a richer, deeper taste that store-bought versions often miss. Of course, if youโ€™re short on time, high-quality store-bought stock is fine.
  • Prep the broth before adding noodles. The key to a clear and flavorful broth is to make sure it's well-seasoned and simmered before you add the noodles. This allows the broth to fully develop its flavor, so the noodles can soak up on all that goodness. 

Variations

This spicy Asian soup is incredibly versatile. Here are a couple of ideas on how you can customize it:

A bowl of Asian noodle soup with orange broth, bok choy, carrots, lime wedges, cilantro, and a white spoon on a blue background.
  • Ditch the chicken broth and opt for a combo of miso paste and vegetable broth for a vegetarian version. It adds that deep umami kick without any meat. Toss in crispy sautรฉed tofu for texture or tempeh for a nuttier vibeโ€”itโ€™s a total game-changer for a meatless option.
  • For an Asian chicken noodle soup, try using shredded or grilled chicken for a classic touch. Rotisserie chicken is a quick and flavorful option, while crispy fried chicken will add a nice crunch and texture.
  • If you want a heartier broth, beef stock is your best friend. Pair it with beef short ribs or thinly sliced steak for an indulgent, meaty heft.
  • You can even further enhance the flavors of the soup broth by adding aromatics like star anise, bay leaf, celery or using miso, or even fish sauce can add layers of complexity. 
  • If you can't find bok choy, spinach, Chinese napa cabbage or bean sprouts work just as well for that light crunch. You can take it up a notch with mushrooms like shiitake or enokiโ€”they bring a satisfying earthiness. Baby corn is another fun addition for some sweetness. 
  • For a more complex flavor, swap the gochujang for red curry paste to give the soup a rich, slightly tangy taste with a creamy consistency when paired with coconut milk. For added heartiness, toss in some shrimpโ€”itโ€™s perfect if you love Thai-inspired flavors.

Serving Ideas

Whenever I whip up a bowl of Asian noodle soup, I love pairing it with simple yet delicious sides to round up the meal. 

Bowl of noodle soup with spoon and chopsticks intertwined in the noodles.

A few pan-fried dumplings or gyoza are always a hit, and theyโ€™re so easy to prepare alongside. If Iโ€™m in the mood for something lighter, pickled veggies like kimchi or tangy cucumbers add that perfect crunch and zing against the comforting soup.

For something heartier, I like adding crispy spring rolls or even a small plate of sushi. 

You can even use this Asian Noodle Soup as a starter for a Chinese spread and serve it with my Copycat Firecracker Chicken and Mongolian Beef.

FAQ

What types of noodles can I use?

Fresh or dried noodles, such as egg noodles, rice noodles, udon noodles, ramen, or even instant wheat noodles, can work depending on the flavor profile you're aiming for. Fresh noodles often offer a better texture, but dried ones are convenient and versatile.

How do I make this Asian Noodle Soup vegetarian?

Swap chicken stock for vegetable stock, and add proteins like tofu or tempeh. Shiitake mushrooms and seaweed can contribute umami, making the soup as flavorful as its non-vegetarian counterparts.

Why do my noodles become soggy?

Overcooking or leaving the noodles in the broth for too long can make the soup starchy. Either cook noodles separately and add them to the soup just before serving to help maintain their texture. Or if going the one-pot route like this recipe, cook them a minute or two less than the package instructions and serve immediately.

How to store this noodle soup?

To store this Asian noodle soup, keep the broth and noodles separate, if you want to maintain the texture. Refrigerate the broth in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days or freeze for longer storage. Store cooked noodles with a little oil to prevent sticking. When reheating, warm the broth and add the noodles and toppings just before serving to keep textures fresh.

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Letโ€™s Stay Connected! Follow me on Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest for the latest updates. And subscribe to my YouTube channel for video recipes.

๐Ÿ“– Recipe

Asian noodle soup in a bowl with soup spoon and chopsticks.

Spicy Asian Noodle Soup

This spicy Asian Noodle Soup features silky egg noodles soaked in a flavor-packed broth enriched with fresh aromatics, chili paste and bok choy. This quick and easy, one-pot recipe comes together in only 10 minutes.
5 from 1 vote
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 2 minutes mins
Cook Time: 8 minutes mins
Total Time: 10 minutes mins
Servings: 2
Author: Qashang

Ingredients

  • 2 teaspoon vegetable oil
  • 2 garlic clove minced
  • 1 teaspoon ginger minced
  • 2 green onion white and green separately sliced
  • 4 teaspoon gochujang paste
  • 2 tablespoon all-purpose soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon white vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon brown sugar
  • 4 ยฝ cups chicken stock or 4 ยฝ cups water mixed with 2 stock cube
  • 160 g (5.5oz) egg noodles
  • 2 baby bok choy sliced lengthwise

To Serve

  • 2 Thai birdโ€™s eye chili sliced
  • 2 lime wedges
  • Fresh cilantro
  • 4 tablespoon carrot cut in matchsticks
  • 2-3 teaspoon chili oil
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Instructions

  • In a dutch oven or medium-sized pot, heat oil. Saute fresh ginger, garlic and white part of green onion till fragrant.
  • Add gochujang, soy sauce, vinegar and sugar. Give a stir and then pour in chicken stock.
  • Bring to a boil and then add noodles. Lower the heat to medium and cook the noodles 1 minute less than the package instructions.
  • Turn off heat and add bok choy. Let sit for a minute and then pour into two serving bowls.
  • Top with sliced red chili, lime wedge, cilantro leaves and matchstick carrots. Sprinkle some sliced green onions. Drizzle chili oil and enjoy hot!

Video

Notes

  1. Donโ€™t let noodles sit in the soup too long, or theyโ€™ll absorb too much liquid and thicken it. Add them just before serving and undercook slightly.
  2. You can swap chicken broth with vegetable one for a vegetarian version. Also feel free to add your choice of protein and/or fresh vegetables.
  3. You can also garnish with a soft-boiled egg, pickled ginger, sesame seeds, fried shallots, chopped peanuts, or a drizzle of toasted sesame oil.

Nutrition

Calories: 458kcal | Carbohydrates: 72g | Protein: 16g | Fat: 12g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 67mg | Sodium: 1361mg | Potassium: 450mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 10274IU | Vitamin C: 70mg | Calcium: 193mg | Iron: 3mg
Did you make this recipe?Please leave a star rating and a review in the comments. You can also tag @chilitochoc on Instagram. I love hearing your feedback!

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Hi, I am Qashang! I share fuss-free recipes from around the world that are rich in flavour and made with easily available ingredients.

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