This Japanese Clear Soup is light and refreshing, perfect for a cozy meal. It’s made with simple ingredients like miso, tofu, and vegetables that give it a clean taste.
Your kitchen will smell amazing while this soup simmers. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up! I love to sip it as a warm treat on chilly days—comfort in a bowl!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Dashi Stock: Dashi is the backbone of this soup and gives it that authentic flavor. If you’re short on time, instant dashi granules work well. Just dissolve according to package directions for convenience.
Soy Sauce: Regular soy sauce adds saltiness and depth. For a gluten-free version, opt for tamari instead. It’s just as flavorful.
Mirin: This sweet rice wine enhances the soup’s flavor. If you can’t find mirin, a mix of sugar and water (1:1) can act as a substitute, but use sparingly.
Mushrooms: Shiitake mushrooms lend a rich taste, but button mushrooms are a great substitute. You can even use dried mushrooms—just soak them first!
Wakame Seaweed: This ingredient adds a delightful texture. If you can’t find wakame, spinach can work in a pinch, offering a similar flavor profile.
How Do I Make the Perfect Dashi Stock?
Making dashi stock is quite simple, but attention to detail is key for the best flavor. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with high-quality kombu, soak it for 30 minutes in cold water to prevent it from becoming too rubbery.
- Heat the water slowly; avoid boiling as it can make the kombu bitter.
- Once ready, add bonito flakes and simmer for just a few minutes. Overcooking can lead to a muddy flavor. Strain it out for a clear, clean stock.
Japanese Clear Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups dashi stock (Japanese soup stock)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon mirin (sweet rice wine)
- 4-5 small shiitake or button mushrooms, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup wakame seaweed, soaked and drained
- 2 tablespoons sliced green onions (scallions)
- Salt, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Japanese Clear Soup takes about 10 minutes for prep and an additional 10 minutes for cooking. In total, you’ll need about 20 minutes to get this warm, comforting dish ready!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dashi Stock:
If you’re not using instant dashi, start by soaking a 10 cm piece of kombu (kelp) in 4 cups of cold water for around 30 minutes. After soaking, bring the water to just below a boil, then remove the kombu. Add a handful of bonito flakes, simmer briefly, and strain to get a nice, clear stock.
2. Simmer the Dashi:
Now that your dashi is ready, bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat. This will create a warm base for your soup.
3. Season the Stock:
Add the soy sauce and mirin to the simmering dashi. Stir gently to mix the flavors well.
4. Add the Mushrooms:
Next, toss in the thinly sliced mushrooms and let them simmer for about 3-4 minutes until they are tender and flavorful.
5. Include the Wakame Seaweed:
After the mushrooms, add the soaked wakame seaweed to the soup. Allow it to warm through for 1-2 minutes, letting its lovely flavor seep in.
6. Taste and Adjust:
Before serving, taste the broth. If you feel it needs a little more flavor, add a pinch of salt to enhance the taste.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Carefully ladle the clear soup into bowls and garnish with the sliced green onions. This adds a nice crunch and fresh flavor.
8. Enjoy Your Soup:
Serve immediately while it’s warm. Take a moment to appreciate the delicate clarity and umami flavors of this comforting Japanese clear soup. Enjoy every sip!
Can I Use Store-Bought Dashi Stock?
Absolutely! Using store-bought dashi stock is a convenient option. Just follow the instructions on the package for the best flavor, and you’ll have a delicious soup in no time!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove or in the microwave, but be careful not to boil, as the flavors can change.
Can I Customize the Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, bok choy, or even tofu for extra protein. Just remember to adjust cooking times based on the vegetables you choose to ensure they’re tender and flavorful.
Is There a Vegetarian Version of This Soup?
Yes! Simply use a vegetarian dashi made from dried shiitake mushrooms and kombu for a delicious, meat-free soup. Adjust the seasoning as needed to enhance the flavor!