Why Make This Recipe
Japanese Clear Soup is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. It is light, flavorful, and easy to prepare. This soup is perfect for those who want a simple yet satisfying option, whether it’s an everyday dinner or a special occasion. The clear broth allows the fresh flavors of the vegetables and any added protein to shine through, making each sip refreshing and enjoyable.
How to Make Japanese Clear Soup
Ingredients:
- 4 cups dashi, chicken, or beef broth
- 1 carrot, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup mushrooms (shiitake or button), sliced
- 1/4 cup onion or green onion, sliced
- 1 celery stalk, chopped (optional)
- 1–2 tsp soy sauce
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional protein: thinly sliced beef, tofu cubes, or poached chicken
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions, for garnish
Directions:
- In a large pot, bring 4 cups of broth (dashi, chicken, or beef) to a gentle boil. Skim off any foam to keep the soup clear.
- Stir in sliced carrots, mushrooms, onions, and celery. Simmer for about 10 minutes until tender.
- Add soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste. Keep flavors light and balanced.
- If using beef slices, tofu, or chicken, add to the simmering broth and cook for 2–3 minutes until heated through.
- Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with chopped green onions. Serve hot.
How to Serve Japanese Clear Soup
Serve Japanese Clear Soup hot, right after you prepare it. It is an excellent starter for a multi-course meal or can be enjoyed on its own. You can present it in small bowls and add some extra green onions on top for a fresh, colorful touch.
How to Store Japanese Clear Soup
If you have leftovers, let the soup cool to room temperature and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for about 2-3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little water if needed to maintain the desired consistency.
Tips to Make Japanese Clear Soup
- Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
- Adjust the seasoning as per your taste; the balance is key for a clear soup.
- Feel free to experiment with different vegetables or proteins you enjoy.
Variation
For a heartier version, you can add noodles or tofu for a more filling meal. You can also substitute the vegetables based on what you have on hand, as this soup is quite flexible.
FAQs
1. Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, you can use vegetable broth instead of chicken or beef broth and omit any meat. Add tofu for some extra protein.
2. How do I make dashi from scratch?
To make dashi, combine kombu (dried kelp) and bonito flakes (dried fish) in water, then heat and strain. This creates a simple, flavorful broth.
3. Can I freeze Japanese Clear Soup?
While you can freeze the soup, the texture of the vegetables may change upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but if you freeze it, store it without the vegetables for better results.
Japanese Clear Soup
A light and flavorful Japanese Clear Soup that brings warmth and comfort to any meal.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 4 cups dashi, chicken, or beef broth
- 1 carrot, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup mushrooms (shiitake or button), sliced
- 1/4 cup onion or green onion, sliced
- 1 celery stalk, chopped (optional)
- 1–2 tsp soy sauce
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional protein: thinly sliced beef, tofu cubes, or poached chicken
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions, for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, bring 4 cups of broth (dashi, chicken, or beef) to a gentle boil. Skim off any foam to keep the soup clear.
- Stir in sliced carrots, mushrooms, onions, and celery. Simmer for about 10 minutes until tender.
- Add soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste. Keep flavors light and balanced.
- If using beef slices, tofu, or chicken, add to the simmering broth and cook for 2–3 minutes until heated through.
- Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with chopped green onions. Serve hot.
Notes
Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor. Adjust seasoning to taste; balance is key for a clear soup.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Japanese
- Diet: Vegetarian (if using vegetable broth and omitting meat)
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 10mg