Chinese Spinach Tofu Soup

Instructions

1. Prepare the broth
   In a large pot, bring the chicken or vegetable broth to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Add the julienned ginger and minced garlic, allowing them to infuse the broth for about 5 minutes.
2. Add the tofu
   Gently slide the cubed tofu into the simmering broth. Be careful not to stir too vigorously as firm tofu can still break. Allow the tofu to simmer for about 5 minutes to absorb the flavors of the broth.
3. Season the soup
   Add the soy sauce, salt, and white pepper to the broth. Stir gently to combine all the flavors. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary.
4. Thicken the soup
   Stir the cornstarch mixture again to ensure it's well combined, then slowly pour it into the soup while stirring gently. The soup will thicken slightly, giving it a silky texture. Let it simmer for 2 minutes.
5. Add the spinach
   Add the fresh spinach to the pot and stir gently until it wilts, which should take about 1-2 minutes. The spinach will dramatically reduce in volume as it cooks.
6. Finish the soup
   Turn off the heat and drizzle the sesame oil over the soup. This adds a wonderful aroma and flavor. Gently stir once more to incorporate the oil throughout the soup.
7. Serve
   Ladle the hot soup into serving bowls and garnish with sliced green onions. Serve immediately while the soup is hot and the spinach is bright green.