How to Make Mushroom Clear Soup (Traditional & Healthy Version)

Name: How to Make Mushroom Clear Soup (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 2 servings
Cuisine: indian
Ingredients: 200g Fresh button mushrooms (sliced); 4 cups Water (filtered); 1 small Onion (finely chopped); 1 inch Ginger (finely grated); 2 cloves Garlic (minced); 8 leaves Curry leaves (fresh, 'karuveppilai'); 1/2 tsp Black pepper powder (freshly ground); 1/2 tsp Salt (to taste); 2 tbsp Coriander leaves (chopped, 'daun ketumbar'); 1 small Carrot (julienned, optional for extra nutrition); 1 tsp Olive oil (for sautéing)

Mushroom Clear Soup is a cherished vegetarian dish in Singapore’s vibrant South Indian community, often found in local kopitiams and hawker centres. This health-conscious version blends the earthy flavors of fresh mushrooms with aromatic spices, reflecting the fusion influences unique to Singapore. The soup is light yet savory, making it a popular lunch option among Singaporeans seeking nutritious, plant-based meals. Rooted in the South Indian culinary traditions that have enriched Singapore’s food culture, this soup is a staple for those who enjoy vegetarian fare. The clear broth, infused with curry leaves and black pepper, is both restorative and flavorful. Its simplicity allows the natural umami of mushrooms to shine, complemented by local ingredients like coriander and ginger. Mushroom Clear Soup is not just a meal; it’s a testament to Singapore’s multicultural food scene where traditional recipes blend seamlessly with modern, healthy lifestyles. Perfect for calorie-conscious diners, this soup delivers maximum taste with minimal fat. It's frequently served as a starter or main course at lunchtime, especially in regions with strong Indian heritage like Little India. Whether enjoyed at a bustling hawker stall or prepared at home, Mushroom Clear Soup embodies the essence of Singaporean vegetarian cuisine: wholesome, aromatic, and truly satisfying.

35 min total2 servingsEasy60 kcal / 100g

Ingredients

Step-by-step instructions

Step 1 · Heat olive oil in a pot over medium flame

Heat olive oil in a pot over medium flame. Add chopped onion, ginger, and garlic. Sauté until fragrant and onions turn translucent.

3 min

Step 2 · Add curry leaves and sliced mushrooms

Add curry leaves and sliced mushrooms. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring gently until mushrooms soften.

Step 3 · Pour in 4 cups of water and bring to a gentle boil

Pour in 4 cups of water and bring to a gentle boil.

8 min

Step 4 · Add salt

Add salt, black pepper powder, and julienned carrots (if using). Simmer for 7-8 minutes until vegetables are tender.

2 min

Step 5 · Turn off heat

Turn off heat. Stir in chopped coriander leaves. Let soup sit covered for 2 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Step 6 · Serve hot in bowls

Serve hot in bowls, garnished with extra coriander leaves if desired.

Why this recipe is healthy

This dish is a healthy choice because it is naturally low in calories and fat, high in vitamins and minerals, and contains no processed ingredients. Using fresh mushrooms and vegetables ensures maximum nutrient retention. The clear broth is hydrating and easy to digest, ideal for lunch or light meals. It fits well into vegetarian, vegan, and weight loss diets.

A note on tradition

In Singapore, Mushroom Clear Soup is favored by the South Indian community, especially during vegetarian days or as a light meal at lunchtime. It’s commonly served at kopitiams and hawker stalls in areas like Little India. The dish highlights Singapore’s fusion food culture, blending Indian spices with local produce. It’s a popular choice during religious fasting periods and is also enjoyed as a restorative meal after festive celebrations.

← Back to Mushroom Clear Soup