Thukpa Recipe – Authentic Tibetan Noodle Soup for Cozy Nights
Thukpa recipe
Today on the Takrecipe website, we bring you a comforting bowl of Thukpa, a traditional Tibetan noodle soup that is widely enjoyed in Nepal, Bhutan, and Northeast India. Known for its heartwarming, mildly spicy broth, this dish combines flavorful spices, tender noodles, and fresh vegetables, making it the perfect meal for cold weather. Whether you prefer a vegetarian or chicken version, this delicious soup is sure to satisfy!
Ingredients Serves: 4
- For the Soup Base:
- 2 tbsp oil (vegetable or sesame oil)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch ginger, grated
- 2 medium tomatoes, finely chopped
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- 1 tsp soy sauce
- 1.5 liters vegetable or chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the Noodles & Add-ins:
- 200g wheat or rice noodles (cooked as per packet instructions)
- 1 cup shredded chicken (or tofu for vegetarian option)
- ½ cup shredded cabbage
- ½ cup julienned carrots
- ½ cup chopped bell peppers
- ½ cup chopped spinach
- 2 green chilies, sliced (optional)
- Juice of ½ lemon
- For Garnishing:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Spring onions, chopped
- Lime wedges
- Red chili sauce (optional)
Prepare the Base
Heat oil in a deep pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown. Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant. Add chopped tomatoes and cook until soft and mushy.
Add Spices and Broth
Sprinkle turmeric, chili powder, garam masala, and cumin powder. Stir well to release the flavors. Pour in the soy sauce and mix thoroughly. Add the broth and bring it to a boil. Let it simmer for 10 minutes.
Cook the Vegetables and Protein
Add the shredded chicken (or tofu) and let it cook for 5 minutes. Toss in the cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers, cooking for another 5 minutes until tender yet crisp. Add spinach and green chilies, stirring for 2 minutes.
Assemble the Thukpa
Place cooked noodles into serving bowls. Ladle the hot soup over the noodles, ensuring an even distribution of vegetables and protein. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top.
Garnish and Serve
Garnish with chopped cilantro and spring onions. Serve hot with lime wedges and optional red chili sauce.
Cooking Tips:
Enhance
🟢the flavor by adding a dash of Sichuan pepper for a subtle numbing heat.
For a richer broth
🟢simmer with a cinnamon stick and bay leaf, then remove before serving.
Use fresh
🟢handmade noodles if available for a more authentic taste and texture.