Japanese Clear Soup Recipe

If you’re looking for a warm and comforting dish that brings a taste of Japan right to your kitchen, then this Japanese Clear Soup Recipe is just what you need! This light and healthy soup is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Whenever I make it, I’m reminded of the soothing atmosphere of my favorite hibachi restaurant. It’s so easy to whip up, and the fragrant broth fills your home with a delightful aroma that will have everyone asking for seconds!

This soup is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re serving it as a starter or enjoying it on its own, it’s sure to become a cherished recipe in your collection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 5 minutes of prep time, this soup comes together effortlessly.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the savory flavors and warmth of this comforting bowl.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: The soup keeps well in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.
• Flavorful Comfort: Each spoonful is packed with wholesome ingredients that create a rich, satisfying broth.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll love how simple and wholesome these ingredients are! Most of them can be found in your kitchen or local grocery store. Let’s gather everything we need to create this delicious Japanese Clear Soup.

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 recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have at home or your personal tastes.

• Swap the protein: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken and beef broth for a vegetarian version.
• Add greens: Toss in some spinach or bok choy at the end for an extra boost of color and nutrition.
• Spice it up: Add a touch of chili flakes or sriracha if you like a bit of heat.
• Load it up: Include additional veggies like bell peppers or zucchini to enhance both flavor and texture.

How to Make Japanese Clear Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Place a large 8-quart stock pot over medium-high heat. Add the oil and toss in the onion, garlic, carrots, and ginger. Searing these veggies helps to caramelize their natural sugars, enhancing their flavor while ensuring that your garlic doesn’t burn—this step is crucial for achieving that deep umami taste!

Step 2: Create the Broth

Pour in the chicken broth, beef broth, and water. Bring everything to a boil; then lower the heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Letting it simmer for at least one hour allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 3: Strain the Broth

Once your broth has simmered away happily, use a skimmer to remove all those tasty vegetables from the pot. Give it a quick taste test before adding salt—this way you can adjust it just how you like!

Step 4: Serve It Up!

To serve your piping hot broth, simply ladle it into bowls. Sprinkle chopped scallions and sliced mushrooms over each bowl for that final touch. Enjoy every warm sip of this delightful soup!

Pro Tips for Making Japanese Clear Soup Recipe

Making a delightful Japanese Clear Soup is all about enhancing flavors and achieving the perfect balance in your broth. Here are some handy tips to elevate your soup-making game!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables like ginger and scallions bring out vibrant flavors that dried or older ingredients simply can’t match. They add depth and brightness to your soup.

• Control the Heat: When searing the veggies, keep an eye on the heat to avoid burning the garlic. Perfectly caramelized onions and carrots will enhance the sweetness of your broth without introducing any bitterness.

• Taste as You Go: Broth can vary in saltiness depending on the brand you use. Always taste your soup before adding salt to ensure you achieve that perfect flavor balance.

• Let It Simmer: Allowing the broth to simmer for at least an hour helps extract maximum flavor from the ingredients. The longer it simmers, the richer and more complex the taste will be.

• Strain Carefully: When removing the vegetables, use a skimmer or fine mesh strainer to keep the broth clear. This step ensures that your soup remains visually appealing and smooth.

How to Serve Japanese Clear Soup Recipe

Serving your Japanese Clear Soup can be just as enjoyable as making it! Here are some ideas to present this comforting dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped Cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a pop of color and a burst of freshness that complements the warmth of the soup.
• Toasted Sesame Seeds: These provide a lovely crunch and nutty flavor that enhances the overall eating experience.
• Lemon Zest: A hint of lemon zest can brighten up your soup, giving it a refreshing twist that balances the savory elements.

Side Dishes

• Edamame: Lightly salted edamame makes for a nutritious snack or starter. Their slightly sweet taste pairs well with the savory notes of the soup.
• Vegetable Tempura: Crispy tempura vegetables add texture and flavor contrast to your meal, making it more satisfying.
• Japanese Rice: A bowl of fluffy white rice complements the soup perfectly and helps soak up all those delicious flavors.
• Seaweed Salad: This refreshing salad offers a unique texture and umami flavor, creating a harmonious balance with your clear soup.

Enjoy crafting this delightful Japanese Clear Soup Recipe! It’s perfect for warming up during chilly days or impressing guests with its simplicity and elegance.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Japanese Clear Soup Recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a warm, comforting bowl whenever you need it. It’s easy to make in large batches, and the flavors deepen beautifully over time. Here’s how to store your delicious creation.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to airtight containers.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Cool the soup completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Label containers with the date and contents, then freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until hot, stirring occasionally.
• For microwaving, place in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe that may help you out!

What is included in a Japanese Clear Soup Recipe?

A traditional Japanese Clear Soup Recipe typically includes chicken broth, beef broth, and a variety of vegetables such as onions, garlic, carrots, and scallions. This combination creates a light yet flavorful broth that’s both soothing and satisfying.

Can I make this Japanese Clear Soup Recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can substitute vegetable broth for both the chicken and beef broths to create a delicious vegetarian version of this soup without compromising on flavor.

How long does this Japanese Clear Soup Recipe take to prepare?

The total time to prepare this Japanese Clear Soup Recipe is about 70 minutes. This includes 5 minutes of prep time and approximately 65 minutes of cooking time.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this comforting Japanese Clear Soup Recipe! It’s not just quick to prepare but also offers a delightful warm hug in a bowl. Whether you’re enjoying it on your own or serving it at a gathering, it’s sure to please everyone at the table. Happy cooking!

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