Get Well Soup Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the comfort of a warm bowl of Get Well Soup when you’re craving something restorative, nourishing, and full of flavor. Packed with tender baked tofu, pearls of couscous, vibrant greens, and an aromatic ginger-garlic broth, this vegan soup is the kind of feel-good recipe you’ll want in your back pocket—not just for sick days, but anytime you need a healthy hug in a bowl. Whether you’re making it for yourself or a loved one, Get Well Soup is the perfect way to brighten spirits and satisfy the soul with every spoonful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Get Well Soup lies in its humble ingredients that come together to form something truly special. Each component, from the protein-rich tofu to the healing powers of ginger and garlic, plays an important role in crafting a soup that’s as delicious as it is nourishing.

• Super firm high protein tofu: Tears into chewy, hearty bites that soak up flavor and pack a punch of plant-based protein.
• Tamari: Lends deep umami and savory notes to your tofu, enhancing every bite.
• Rice vinegar: Adds a bright acidity that awakens the tofu and balances the rich flavors.
• Light brown sugar: Just a touch to round out the savoriness and add subtle complexity.
• Coriander: Gives the tofu a hint of citrusy, earthy warmth.
• White pepper: Adds a delicate heat and peppery aroma to both tofu and broth.
• Potato starch: Helps create that crave-worthy, crispy exterior when the tofu is baked.
• Avocado oil: A high-heat, neutral oil perfect for roasting tofu and sautéing aromatics.
• Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning at every stage.
• Garlic cloves: Used two ways for bold, sweet, and mellow flavor throughout the soup.
• Onion: Builds a hearty, aromatic base for the soup.
• Scallions: Their gentle bite and fresh flavor lift the whole dish.
• Serrano pepper (optional): A gentle kick of heat if you’re up for it!
• Fresh ginger: Stars in the broth, giving the soup its signature warmth and zest.
• Ground turmeric (optional): Adds gorgeous golden color and earthy undertones.
• Mirin: Sweet rice wine brightens and balances the broth.
• Vegetable broth: The soulful, savory backbone of Get Well Soup. Use a high-quality variety!
• Pearl couscous: Plump, chewy pearls add fun texture and satisfying substance.
• Bay leaf: Layers in a subtle herbal note.
• Lacinato kale: Shredded for vibrant color, texture, and a boost of nutrients.
• Cilantro leaves: A fresh, herbal note that finishes the soup beautifully.
• Lime: A squeeze at the end brings bright acidity and awakens every flavor in the bowl.
• Freshly ground black pepper: For that last hit of gentle, aromatic spice.
• Extra lime wedges and cilantro (for serving): Because fresh garnishes always take it over the top.

How to Make Get Well Soup

Step 1: Prep and Marinate the Tofu

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F and lining a baking tray with parchment paper. Tear your block of super firm tofu into rough, bite-sized pieces—this gives you more nooks for flavor to cling to! In a large bowl or container, toss the tofu with tamari and rice vinegar. Let it marinate, covered, for 10 minutes so all those savory notes seep right in.

Step 2: Coat and Bake the Tofu

Sprinkle the marinated tofu with coriander, brown sugar, potato starch, and white pepper, then drizzle in the avocado oil. Give everything a really good toss so every piece is evenly coated. Spread out on your tray, sprinkle with a little kosher salt, and bake for 15 minutes, flip, then continue baking for another 5-10 minutes. The result? Crispy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside tofu for topping your Get Well Soup!

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

Meanwhile, heat avocado oil in a large soup pot over medium-low heat. Add the thinly sliced garlic first and sauté for one to two minutes, just until golden and fragrant—don’t walk away! Next, add in the diced onion with a pinch of salt and sauté until softened. Stir in the white parts of the scallions and serrano pepper, if using, for a burst of fresh, zippy flavor.

Step 4: Build the Broth

Now add the grated garlic, ginger, and optional turmeric. Stir for another minute until everything is smelling absolutely heavenly. Deglaze the pot with mirin, scrapping up any browned bits that might be clinging to the bottom, then pour in all of your good quality vegetable broth.

Step 5: Simmer with Couscous and Bay Leaf

Add the pearl couscous and bay leaf, giving it a stir to combine. Bring everything to a gentle boil, then immediately reduce the heat to a low simmer. Taste the broth and adjust with salt as you like—this is where you can customize for the perfect flavor! Loosely cover the pot and let it cook for 13 to 15 minutes, until the couscous is fully cooked and plump.

Step 6: Add Greens and Fresh Herbs

With the heat off, stir in your shredded kale and cilantro leaves. The warmth from the broth will wilt the kale just right, keeping its color and bite. Finish with a generous squeeze of fresh lime juice and a few cracks of black pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning one last time—trust your palate!

Step 7: Assemble and Serve

To serve, ladle the hot, aromatic soup into bowls and top each with a generous serving of your golden baked tofu. Scatter over some of the remaining scallion greens, and don’t forget the extras: lime wedges and cilantro for freshness, if you like. There you have it—the perfect bowl of Get Well Soup, ready to lift anyone’s spirits!

How to Serve Get Well Soup

Garnishes

A handful of chopped cilantro, thinly sliced green scallion tops, and a generous squeeze of lime make Get Well Soup feel extra special and fresh. Add a few cracks of black pepper or even a drizzle of chili oil if you crave heat. These finishes bring out the vibrant flavors and turn a humble soup into a bowl worthy of a get-well gift!

Side Dishes

Get Well Soup pairs wonderfully with a crusty slice of sourdough, a soft dinner roll, or even a scoop of steamed rice. If you’re feeling extra cozy, try a simple green salad on the side for a refreshing crunch, or a plate of roasted veggies. The soup’s gentle flavors won’t overwhelm, so you can get creative with your favorite comforting sides.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to make Get Well Soup truly memorable, consider serving it in large, cozy mugs for sipping on the couch, or portion it into small bowls for a comforting soup flight. Pack the tofu in a separate container for meal prep, or toss it in at the last minute so it stays extra crispy. For care packages, ladle soup into jars and tuck garnishes on the side for the ultimate soup surprise!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Pop leftover Get Well Soup into airtight containers as soon as it cools down. Store the soup and tofu separately if possible, so the tofu keeps its texture. Everything will keep beautifully in the fridge for up to four days—just scoop, reheat, and it’s as comforting as day one.

Freezing

Get Well Soup freezes like a dream! Portion individual servings into freezer-safe containers or souper cubes (they’re a lifesaver when you’re not feeling up for cooking). Let the soup cool first, and always leave some space for expansion. The tofu and couscous both freeze well, making this a great make-ahead meal for those days when you really need a bowl of TLC.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until steaming hot. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works well too—just give things a good stir halfway through and check that everything is heated through. Add a splash of water or broth if the soup thickens up, and refresh with a squeeze of lime and a handful of herbs before serving.

FAQs

Can I substitute another green for the kale?

Absolutely! Spinach, Swiss chard, or even baby bok choy work beautifully in Get Well Soup. Just be mindful that more delicate greens like spinach need only a minute to wilt, so add them at the very end.

What if I don’t have pearl couscous?

No worries at all—any small pasta (like orzo or ditalini) or even cooked rice can step in for pearl couscous. You could also try quinoa for a gluten-free swap; just adjust the cook time to make sure it’s tender.

Can I add different protein to the soup?

Definitely! While baked tofu adds great texture and protein, feel free to stir in some canned chickpeas or white beans when simmering the soup. It’s all about making your Get Well Soup as satisfying as possible.

Is Get Well Soup spicy?

Not inherently! The serrano pepper is totally optional—just leave it out if you prefer a milder soup. The broth itself is warming from ginger and garlic rather than spicy, so it’s gentle and soothing.

Can I prepare the soup base ahead and add tofu later?

Yes, in fact, it works perfectly for meal prepping! Prepare the soup base and baked tofu on separate days if you like. Store them apart, then combine when serving so the tofu stays delightful and crisp.

Final Thoughts

A steaming bowl of Get Well Soup is my go-to comfort recipe, whether I’m under the weather or just need a little extra warmth in my week. It’s wholesome, flexible, and absolutely packed with flavor. Give it a try—you might just find yourself craving this nourishing bowl for every season.

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