Why Make This Recipe
Japanese Clear Soup is a perfect dish for anyone looking for a light, flavorful meal. It’s simple to prepare and brings a comforting warmth, making it great for any time of the year. This soup is not only delicious but also allows you to customize it with your favorite ingredients. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just want a bowl of something soothing, this clear soup will surely satisfy.
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 the soup hot in individual bowls. You can enjoy it as a starter or make it part of a larger meal. Pair it with steamed rice, sushi, or other Japanese dishes for a delightful experience.
How to Store Japanese Clear Soup
If you have leftovers, allow the soup to cool. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat the soup on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Tips to Make Japanese Clear Soup
- Use high-quality broth for the best flavor. Dashi is the traditional choice, but chicken or beef broth work well too.
- Slice your vegetables thinly to ensure they cook quickly and evenly.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste. Start with a little soy sauce and add more as needed.
- If you like more texture, consider adding additional vegetables such as bok choy or spinach.
Variation
Feel free to mix up the ingredients! You can add different vegetables or proteins based on your preference. For a heartier soup, include more veggies or an extra portion of protein.
FAQs
1. Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, simply use vegetable broth and add tofu for protein.
2. How long does this soup take to make?
It takes about 20-25 minutes from start to finish.
3. Can I freeze Japanese Clear Soup?
It is not recommended to freeze clear soup because it can change the texture of the vegetables. However, you can freeze the broth separately and combine it with fresh veggies later.
Japanese Clear Soup
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian (if using vegetable broth)
Description
A light, flavorful soup that can be customized with your favorite ingredients, perfect for any time of the year.
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 high-quality broth for the best flavor; dashi is traditional. Slice vegetables thinly for quick cooking. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Japanese