Japanese Clear Soup Recipe
If you’re looking for a comforting bowl of warmth, you’ve come to the right place! This Japanese Clear Soup Recipe is a cherished favorite that brings back memories of dining at Hibachi restaurants. It’s light, healthy, and incredibly soothing—perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The broth is rich in flavor yet simple enough to let the fresh ingredients shine through. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just want to enjoy something cozy, this soup is sure to warm your heart.
What makes this clear soup special? It’s not just about the flavors; it’s about the love and care that goes into making it. The combination of savory broth and aromatic vegetables creates an experience that feels both homey and special. Once you start making it, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and time again!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation: With just 5 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious soup simmering on the stove in no time.
- Family-friendly: Everyone will enjoy this tasty soup! Its mild flavors make it a hit with kids and adults alike.
- Make-ahead convenience: This soup can be prepared in advance, making it perfect for meal prep or serving guests.
- Deliciously healthy: Packed with wholesome ingredients, this soup is low in calories while being high in flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple, wholesome ingredients is part of the fun! You’ll find that they are easy to source and work together beautifully to create a comforting broth.
For the Broth
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil (or peanut oil)
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 4 cups beef broth
- 4 cups water
For the Vegetables
- 1 large sweet onion (peeled and cut into wedges)
- 6 cloves garlic (peeled and smashed)
- 2 large carrots (cut into chunks)
- 2-inch piece fresh ginger (sliced)
- 4 whole scallions (chopped)
- 10 button mushrooms (sliced thin)
- Salt to taste
Variations
One of the best things about this Japanese Clear Soup Recipe is its flexibility! You can easily customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
- Add some protein: Feel free to toss in tofu or shrimp for an extra boost of protein!
- Mix up the veggies: Use whatever vegetables you have—spinach, bok choy, or even zucchini would work beautifully.
- Spice it up: If you enjoy a little heat, add some sliced chili peppers or a dash of hot sauce for an exciting kick.
- Make it vegetarian: Swap out chicken and beef broth for vegetable broth to create a delightful vegetarian version.
How to Make Japanese Clear Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Vegetables
Place a large 8-quart stock pot over medium-high heat. Add your chosen oil and toss in the onion, garlic, carrots, and ginger. Searing these veggies on all sides caramelizes their natural sugars, which enhances their flavors and adds depth to your broth. Just be careful not to burn the garlic!
Step 2: Create the Broth
Next, pour in the chicken broth, beef broth, and water. Bring everything to a boil before lowering the heat to a gentle simmer. Letting it simmer for at least one hour allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully.
Step 3: Strain Out the Vegetables
Once your broth has simmered long enough, use a skimmer to carefully remove all those lovely vegetables from the pot. Take a moment to taste your broth at this stage—it should be rich and flavorful! Adjust with salt as needed.
Step 4: Serve Up Your Soup
To serve this delightful soup, ladle hot broth into bowls. Finish off by sprinkling chopped scallion and sliced mushrooms over each bowl for a touch of freshness. Enjoy every soothing sip!
Pro Tips for Making Japanese Clear Soup Recipe
Creating the perfect Japanese Clear Soup is easier than you might think! Here are some tips to elevate your soup-making game:
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Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs not only enhance the flavor of your soup but also add vibrant colors, making your dish more appetizing.
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Adjust salt to taste: Since broth can vary in saltiness, it’s best to taste as you go. This ensures that your soup is perfectly seasoned without being overly salty.
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Simmer for depth of flavor: Allowing your soup to simmer for at least an hour helps meld the flavors together, resulting in a richer and more complex broth.
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Customize with additional vegetables: Feel free to add other veggies like bok choy or zucchini. This not only adds nutrition but also allows you to create a unique twist on the classic recipe.
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Skim off impurities: As the soup simmers, you may notice foam rising to the top. Skimming this off will result in a clearer broth and a more polished final dish.
How to Serve Japanese Clear Soup Recipe
Serving your Japanese Clear Soup can be just as fun as making it! Here are some creative ways to present this delightful dish:
Garnishes
- Chopped cilantro: Adding fresh cilantro gives a burst of flavor and freshness that complements the warm broth beautifully.
- Toasted sesame seeds: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the top for added crunch and nutty flavor that enhances each spoonful.
Side Dishes
- Edamame: Steamed edamame pods sprinkled with sea salt make for a nutritious snack that pairs wonderfully with this light soup.
- Japanese Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad made with thinly sliced cucumbers, rice vinegar, and sesame oil balances out the warmth of the soup perfectly.
- Vegetable Tempura: Crispy vegetable tempura offers a delightful contrast in texture and is always a crowd-pleaser alongside clear soup.
- Steamed Rice: A small bowl of steamed rice serves as a hearty complement, allowing diners to enjoy every drop of the flavorful broth.
Enjoy crafting this comforting bowl of Japanese Clear Soup! It’s perfect for cozy nights or when you need a little pick-me-up. Happy cooking!
Make Ahead and Storage
This Japanese Clear Soup Recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a comforting bowl of soup throughout the week. It’s easy to store and reheat, making it a convenient option for busy days.
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Make sure to separate the broth from any added ingredients like mushrooms or scallions for optimal freshness.
Freezing
- Cool the soup completely before freezing.
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Label with the date for easy tracking!
Reheating
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
- Heat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
- For a quick microwave option, use a microwave-safe bowl and heat in short intervals, stirring in between.
FAQs
Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe!
How can I modify this Japanese Clear Soup Recipe for a vegetarian version?
You can easily adapt this soup by using vegetable broth instead of chicken and beef broth. Replace meat-based broths with a rich vegetable broth and add more vegetables to enhance flavor.
What makes this Japanese Clear Soup Recipe so special?
This recipe stands out due to its simplicity and depth of flavor achieved through caramelized vegetables and fresh aromatics. It’s a soothing dish that captures the essence of traditional Japanese cuisine.
Can I use other vegetables in this Japanese Clear Soup Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with additional veggies like bok choy, zucchini, or bell peppers. Just remember to adjust cooking times accordingly based on their texture and cooking needs.
Final Thoughts
I hope you find joy in making this heartwarming Japanese Clear Soup Recipe! It’s not just a dish; it’s an experience that brings warmth and comfort with every sip. Whether you’re enjoying it alone or sharing with loved ones, there’s something truly special about homemade soup. Happy cooking, and may your kitchen be filled with delightful aromas!
Japanese Clear Soup
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Japanese
Description
Looking for a dish that warms your soul and is packed with comforting flavors? This Japanese Clear Soup is the answer! Inspired by the beloved flavors of Hibachi restaurants, this simple yet delightful broth is light, healthy, and perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With just a handful of fresh ingredients, you can whip up a soothing bowl of soup that feels both nourishing and special. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or simply craving something cozy, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen!
Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil (or peanut oil)
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 large sweet onion (cut into wedges)
- 6 cloves garlic (smashed)
- 2 large carrots (cut into chunks)
- 2-inch piece fresh ginger (sliced)
- 4 whole scallions (chopped)
- 10 button mushrooms (sliced thin)
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- In an 8-quart stock pot over medium-high heat, add sesame oil and sear the onion, garlic, carrots, and ginger until caramelized.
- Pour in chicken broth, beef broth, and water. Bring to a boil, then lower heat to simmer for at least one hour.
- Strain out the vegetables using a skimmer and adjust salt to taste.
- Serve hot in bowls garnished with chopped scallion and sliced mushrooms.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 960mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
