If you’re craving a bowl that warms your soul yet feels light and refreshing, this Tomato Enoki Mushroom Soup Recipe is an absolute must-try. It beautifully combines the tangy richness of tomato paste with the delicate, slightly crunchy texture of enoki mushrooms, all enhanced by savory ground beef and aromatic aromatics like ginger and garlic. Each spoonful delivers a comforting depth of flavor, making it an ideal dish for cozy nights or anytime you want to brighten your meal with something simple but truly special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are thoughtfully chosen for their complementary qualities that shape the unique flavor and texture of this soup. From the earthy mushrooms to the bright tang of tomato, each element plays a starring role in the final taste and appearance.
- 2 tablespoons oil: The base for sautéing, bringing out the fragrance of garlic and ginger.
- 2 slices ginger: Adds a subtle warmth and spice that wakes up the broth.
- 3 cloves garlic (smashed): Infuses the soup with a deep, savory aroma.
- ½ pound lean ground beef: Provides hearty flavor and a wonderful meaty texture that complements the vegetables.
- 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste: The concentrated tomato flavor giving the soup its beautiful red color and tang.
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken stock: A gentle, savory liquid that carries all the flavors harmoniously.
- 2 teaspoons sugar: Balances the acidity of tomato and vinegar perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances and rounds out all the flavors.
- ⅛ teaspoon ground white pepper: Offers a mild heat without overpowering the delicate ingredients.
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar: Brightens the soup with a subtle tangy kick.
- 2 scallions (whites and greens separated): Whites for sweet, oniony depth; greens for fresh, crisp garnish.
- 3 packs enoki mushrooms: The star ingredient that delivers a unique texture and subtle flavor, soaking up the soup beautifully.
How to Make Tomato Enoki Mushroom Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics and Brown the Beef
Begin by heating the oil in a medium pot over medium heat until shimmering, then add ginger slices and smashed garlic cloves. Cook them gently for about 2 minutes until fragrant and slightly golden, which sets the foundation for a deeply aromatic broth. Next, add the lean ground beef and turn the heat to medium-high; sauté until the beef is no longer pink and starts sizzling, around 5 minutes. This step builds a savory backbone and develops rich flavor through caramelization.
Step 2: Develop Tomato Flavor
Stir in the tomato paste and let it cook with the beef for another 2 minutes. This concentrates the tomato’s tang and sweetness, mellowing out any raw taste and creating a luscious base for the soup. The tomato paste not only adds depth but also gives the soup a vibrant red hue that makes it visually enticing.
Step 3: Add Stock and Seasonings
Pour in the low-sodium chicken stock to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom for added savoriness. Then stir in sugar, salt, ground white pepper, and white vinegar. The sugar and vinegar perfectly balance acidity and sweetness, while salt and pepper enhance the layers of flavor. This perfectly seasoned broth invites the mushrooms and scallions to shine.
Step 4: Simmer with Mushrooms and Scallions
Add the enoki mushrooms and the scallion whites (cut into 2-inch pieces), then reduce the heat to low and let everything simmer gently for at least 15 minutes. This simmering allows the enoki mushrooms to soften and soak up the rich, tangy broth, transforming each bite into a tender, flavorful experience. The scallion whites add a mild onion note that blends beautifully with the other ingredients.
Step 5: Finish and Garnish
Just before serving, sprinkle the thinly sliced scallion greens on top for a fresh, crisp burst of color and flavor. These greens add a lively contrast that makes the soup feel even more vibrant with every spoonful.
How to Serve Tomato Enoki Mushroom Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly sliced scallion greens are the classic garnish, offering a bright oniony crunch that lifts the soup. You can also add a drizzle of toasted sesame oil for nuttiness or a sprinkle of chili flakes if you love a little heat. These simple touches transform the dish from comforting cooking into something truly special.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or a crusty baguette to soak up every flavorful drop. For a light meal, serve alongside a crisp cucumber salad or sautéed greens like bok choy to balance the richness with freshness and texture.
Creative Ways to Present
For an impressive touch, serve the soup in individual bowls garnished with edible flowers or microgreens. You might even ladle it into hollowed-out mini tomatoes to amp up the tomato theme and wow your guests. Whatever your presentation, this Tomato Enoki Mushroom Soup Recipe always feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it stays fresh for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen as it rests, making reheated portions even tastier than the first!
Freezing
This soup freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags and keep it for up to 2 months. Just be sure to cool it thoroughly beforehand to maintain the best flavor and texture upon thawing.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Avoid boiling as the delicate enoki mushrooms can break down too much. For a quick microwave option, heat in short bursts, stirring in between to warm evenly.
FAQs
Can I substitute the ground beef with another protein?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken work well for a lighter version, and even firm tofu can be a great vegetarian alternative. Just adjust cooking time accordingly and season well to maintain that rich, savory profile.
What if I don’t have tomato paste?
No worries at all. You can substitute a 28-ounce can of diced tomatoes instead. Just add it along with the chicken stock and let it simmer a bit longer to concentrate flavors. This swap might make the broth a little lighter but still delicious.
Are enoki mushrooms easy to find?
Enoki mushrooms are commonly available in most Asian supermarkets and many well-stocked grocery stores. Look for their signature long, thin white stems with tiny caps, and choose firm, fresh bunches for the best texture.
Can I make this soup vegan?
Yes! Replace chicken stock with vegetable broth, swap out ground beef for sautéed mushrooms or plant-based ground meat, and skip the vinegar or use a vegan-friendly alternative. This way, the Tomato Enoki Mushroom Soup Recipe remains flavorful and satisfying without animal products.
What’s the best way to adjust seasoning if the soup tastes flat?
Start by adding a pinch of salt or a splash more vinegar to brighten the flavor. A tiny touch of sugar can balance acidity, and white pepper adds gentle heat. Taste as you go for the perfect balance tailored to your palate.
Final Thoughts
This Tomato Enoki Mushroom Soup Recipe is one of those dishes you’ll want to turn to again and again. Its comforting yet light character fits any season, and the blend of textures and flavors makes every bowl a pleasure. I encourage you to whip up a pot soon and enjoy the cozy satisfaction it brings. Trust me, it’s a culinary hug you won’t forget!
Print
Tomato Enoki Mushroom Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Description
A comforting and flavorful Tomato Enoki Mushroom Soup featuring tender ground beef, fragrant ginger and garlic, and delicate enoki mushrooms simmered in a savory tomato broth. This hearty yet light soup balances the tanginess of tomato paste with subtle seasonings, perfect for a cozy meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 2 slices ginger
- 3 cloves garlic, smashed
- ½ pound lean ground beef
- 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken stock
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon ground white pepper
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 2 scallions (separated into whites and greens; whites cut into 2-inch pieces; greens thinly sliced)
- 3 packs enoki mushrooms
Instructions
- Heat aromatics: In a medium pot, warm the oil over medium heat until it shimmers. Add the ginger slices and smashed garlic cloves, cooking for about 2 minutes to release their fragrant flavors into the oil.
- Cook ground beef: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the lean ground beef. Stir and cook until the beef turns brown and is no longer pink, about 5 minutes, allowing it to sizzle and develop flavor.
- Add tomato paste: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another 2 minutes, deepening the tomato flavor and integrating it with the beef mixture.
- Simmer soup: Pour in the low-sodium chicken stock, then season with sugar, salt, white pepper, and white vinegar. Add the enoki mushrooms and the white parts of the scallions. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer and cook for at least 15 minutes, allowing the mushrooms to soften and the flavors to meld.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from heat and garnish with the thinly sliced green parts of the scallions. Serve hot and enjoy your nourishing soup!
Notes
- The 6-ounce can of tomato paste can be substituted with a 28-ounce can of diced tomatoes for a chunkier texture and slightly lighter tomato flavor.
- Use low-sodium chicken stock to control the saltiness of the soup.
- Adjust seasoning, especially vinegar and sugar, to balance the acidity and sweetness to your taste.
- Enoki mushrooms are delicate; avoid overcooking to maintain their texture.
