Name: Healing Ginger Garlic Broth with Rice Noodles
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 (1-inch) piece fresh ginger, sliced; 3 garlic cloves, smashed; 1 small onion, quartered; 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth; 4–6 oz rice noodles; 1–2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 2 green onions, sliced; Optional: mushrooms, bok choy, spinach, tofu, shredded chicken, chili flakes, lime juice

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Healing Ginger Garlic Broth with Rice Noodles is my go-to when I need something soothing, light, and revitalizing. The warming flavors of fresh ginger and garlic simmered into a clear broth create a comforting base that’s both aromatic and healing. With the soft rice noodles and optional veggies or protein, it’s a nourishing bowl I turn to again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this dish feels like medicine in a bowl—perfect when I’m under the weather or just want something light and restorative. The broth is deeply flavorful yet simple, and the rice noodles add heartiness without making it too heavy. It’s completely customizable and comes together in under 30 minutes, which makes it a weeknight hero.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Fresh ginger, sliced
Garlic cloves, smashed
Onion, quartered
Vegetable or chicken broth
Rice noodles
Soy sauce or tamari
Sesame oil
Green onions, sliced
Optional: mushrooms, bok choy, spinach, tofu, shredded chicken, chili flakes or fresh lime juice

Directions

I start by adding the broth to a pot along with the sliced ginger, smashed garlic, and onion.
I bring it to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for 15–20 minutes to infuse the flavors.
While the broth simmers, I cook the rice noodles separately according to the package instructions, then rinse them under cold water.
Once the broth is ready, I strain out the solids and return the clear, fragrant broth to the pot.
I season it with soy sauce and a touch of sesame oil, tasting and adjusting as needed.
I add any optional veggies or protein at this stage, letting them simmer until just tender.
I divide the cooked noodles into bowls and ladle the hot broth over the top, finishing with sliced green onions and any other garnishes I like.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 2 to 3 as a light meal. It takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook.

Variations

Sometimes I add miso paste or a dash of rice vinegar for a different flavor profile. I often stir in spinach or bok choy for greens, and when I want it more filling, I add tofu or shredded rotisserie chicken. For spice, I top it with chili oil or crushed red pepper. A squeeze of lime brightens it up beautifully too.

Storage/Reheating

I store the broth and noodles separately in the fridge for up to 4 days. When reheating, I warm the broth on the stove and pour it over the noodles just before serving. This keeps the noodles from getting mushy. If frozen, I store only the broth and add fresh noodles later.

FAQs

Can I use dried ginger or garlic?

Fresh is best for flavor and healing benefits, but in a pinch, I’ve used powdered ginger and garlic. I just use less and adjust to taste.

What kind of broth works best?

I usually go with low-sodium chicken or veggie broth. Homemade bone broth adds extra richness and nutrition when I have it on hand.

Can I make it spicy?

Definitely. I add sliced chili, chili oil, or red pepper flakes for heat. Even a dash of sriracha works great stirred in.

Are the noodles gluten-free?

Most rice noodles are naturally gluten-free, but I always double-check the package to be sure if that’s important for me.

Can I make it ahead?

Yes, I often make the broth ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer. Then I just boil noodles and pour the hot broth over when I’m ready to eat.

Conclusion

Healing Ginger Garlic Broth with Rice Noodles is the kind of recipe I come back to when I need something light, comforting, and packed with feel-good ingredients. Whether I’m fighting off a cold or just want a simple, soothing meal, this dish always delivers warmth, nourishment, and peace in every spoonful.