Maya Tomato Spinach Soup

Maya Tomato Spinach Soup is a easy Filipino recipe that serves 4. 150 calories per serving. Recipe by Magg's Kitchen on YouTube.

Prep: 15 min | Cook: 45 min | Total: 1 hr 15 min

Cost: $4.05 total, $1.01 per serving

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (extra‑virgin preferred)
  • 4 medium Tomatoes (ripe, diced)
  • 6 cloves Garlic (minced)
  • 2 stalks Scallion (white and green parts sliced)
  • 2 cups Spinach (fresh, washed and roughly chopped)
  • 1/4 cup Cilantro (chopped)
  • 1/4 cup Parsley (chopped)
  • 1 cube Maggi Cube (vegetable flavor)
  • to taste Salt
  • 3 cups Water
  • 2 teaspoons Haitian Seasoning (or any mixed herb blend)
  • 2 tablespoons Butter (unsalted, cut into cubes)

Instructions

  1. Heat Oil

    Place the large pot over medium‑high heat and add the olive oil. Let it warm for about 2 minutes until shimmering.

    Time: PT2M

    Temperature: Medium‑high

  2. Sauté Aromatics

    Add the minced garlic and sliced scallion to the pot. Stir constantly and sauté for 5 minutes, or until fragrant and the scallion turns translucent.

    Time: PT5M

    Temperature: Medium

  3. Add and Mash Tomatoes

    Add the diced tomatoes to the pot. Using a potato masher or the back of a spoon, mash the tomatoes until they break down into a chunky sauce.

    Time: PT5M

    Temperature: Medium

  4. Create the Broth

    Pour in 3 cups of water, crumble the Maggi cube into the pot, add the Haitian seasoning, and season with salt to taste. Stir well and bring the mixture to a boil.

    Time: PT5M

    Temperature: High

  5. Add Greens and Herbs

    Once boiling, add the chopped spinach, cilantro, and parsley. Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and cook for 10 minutes, allowing the greens to wilt and the flavors to meld.

    Time: PT10M

    Temperature: Low

  6. Finish with Butter

    Add the butter cubes to the soup, stirring until fully melted. This enriches the broth and gives it a silky texture.

    Time: PT2M

    Temperature: Low

  7. Simmer Until Done

    Cover the pot and let the soup simmer gently for 20‑25 minutes, stirring once halfway through. The soup should be moist, fragrant, and the vegetables fully tender.

    Time: PT20M

    Temperature: Low

  8. Serve

    Remove the pot from heat. Ladle the hot soup into bowls and enjoy immediately. Garnish with an extra drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.

    Time: PT1M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
150
Protein
4 g
Carbohydrates
20 g
Fat
6 g
Fiber
3 g

Dietary info: Vegetarian, Can be made vegan by omitting butter

Allergens: Dairy

Last updated: April 7, 2026

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Maya Tomato Spinach Soup

Recipe by Magg's Kitchen

A comforting Filipino-inspired tomato soup packed with fresh spinach, herbs, and a touch of butter for richness. Made with simple pantry staples and a Maggi cube for umami, this one‑pot soup is quick to prepare and perfect for a cozy dinner.

EasyFilipinoServes 4

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
10m
Prep
40m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
1h
Total

Cost Breakdown

$4.05
Total cost
$1.01
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Heat oil without letting it smoke.
  • Sauté garlic and scallion without burning.
  • Mash tomatoes thoroughly to create a base sauce.
  • Add enough water to keep the soup moist.
  • Finish with butter for richness.

Safety Warnings

  • Hot oil can cause burns – handle with care.
  • Boiling water and steam can cause scalds; keep face away from the pot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of Maya Tomato Spinach Soup in Filipino cuisine?

A

Maya soup is a home‑style Filipino comfort dish that blends the tang of tomatoes with the earthiness of leafy greens. It reflects the Filipino tradition of turning simple pantry staples into nourishing meals, often served during rainy evenings or family gatherings.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of Maya Tomato Spinach Soup across the Philippines?

A

In the Visayas, cooks often add coconut milk for a creamier texture, while in Luzon versions you’ll find a touch of fish sauce instead of a Maggi cube. Some regions also incorporate local greens like moringa (malunggay) or bitter melon leaves.

cultural
Q

How is Maya Tomato Spinach Soup traditionally served in Filipino households?

A

It is typically served hot in a deep bowl, accompanied by steamed rice or crusty pandesal. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro is added just before eating for extra aroma.

cultural
Q

On what occasions or celebrations is Maya Tomato Spinach Soup traditionally enjoyed in Filipino culture?

A

Maya soup is a go‑to comfort food for everyday meals, but it also appears during informal gatherings, after‑school snacks, and as a soothing dish during the rainy season or when someone is feeling under the weather.

cultural
Q

How does Maya Tomato Spinach Soup fit into the broader Filipino cuisine tradition?

A

Filipino cuisine often balances sour, salty, and umami flavors. This soup embodies that balance with tangy tomatoes, salty Maggi, and the umami depth from butter, showcasing the Filipino love for hearty, one‑pot meals.

cultural
Q

What are the authentic traditional ingredients for Maya Tomato Spinach Soup versus acceptable substitutes?

A

Authentic ingredients include fresh tomatoes, spinach, garlic, scallion, Maggi cube, and a touch of butter. Substitutes can be canned tomatoes, kale for spinach, vegetable bouillon instead of Maggi, and olive oil in place of butter for a vegan version.

cultural
Q

What other Filipino dishes pair well with Maya Tomato Spinach Soup?

A

Pair it with fried fish (daing), grilled pork belly (inihaw na baboy), or a simple garlic fried rice (sinangag) for a complete Filipino meal.

cultural
Q

What makes Maya Tomato Spinach Soup special or unique in Filipino cuisine?

A

Its simplicity and reliance on fresh garden produce set it apart. The use of a Maggi cube adds a distinct umami punch that is characteristic of many Filipino home‑cooked soups.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Maya Tomato Spinach Soup?

A

Avoid burning the garlic, which turns bitter, and don’t let the soup reduce too much—add water if it becomes overly thick. Also, add the butter at the end; cooking it too long can cause the butter to separate.

technical
Q

Why does this Maya Tomato Spinach Soup recipe use butter instead of oil for the finishing step?

A

Butter adds a silky mouthfeel and a subtle richness that oil alone cannot provide. Adding it at the end preserves its flavor without risking the milk solids burning during the long simmer.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Magg's Kitchen specialize in?

A

Magg's Kitchen focuses on easy, family‑friendly Filipino home cooking, offering step‑by‑step videos that highlight everyday ingredients and practical tips for busy home cooks.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Magg's Kitchen's approach to Filipino cooking differ from other cooking channels?

A

Magg's Kitchen emphasizes quick, one‑pot meals with clear visual cues and minimal equipment, whereas many other channels may focus on elaborate techniques or gourmet presentations. The channel aims to make traditional Filipino flavors accessible to beginners.

channel

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