Intro: Serves 4. This simple but delicious and nutritious soup is one you would often find on the table in China. Use soft bean curd: its custard-like texture and mild flavor works with the sugar to neutralize the metallic edge of the spinach. The bean thread noodles give substance to this warming dish.

Prep: Soak the noodles in a large bowl of warm water for 15 minutes. When soft, drain them and discard the water. Cut the noodles into 3-inch lengths using scissors or a knife. Remove the stalks from the spinach and wash the leaves well. Gently cut the bean curd into 1-inch cubes.

Put the stock into a saucepan and bring to a simmer. Add the bean thread noodles and simmer for 2 minutes. Add the spinach and the rest of the ingredients except the bean curd. Simmer for 2 minutes, then gently put in the bean curd. Continue to simmer the soup for 2 more minutes to heat the bean curd through and serve at once.

Original Title: Soft Bean Curd and Spinach Soup

the noodles. We served with a Thai Garlic Pepper Sauce, reminded us of hot-sour soup. With rice: Per Serving: 179 cals, 2.5 g fat (13.4% cff)