Japanese Clear Soup Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting bowl of warmth that’s both light and packed with flavor, this Japanese Clear Soup Recipe is just the ticket! This soup is not only a staple at Hibachi restaurants, but it also serves as a delightful way to unwind after a busy day. Its soothing broth and colorful vegetables make it perfect for everything from family gatherings to quiet weeknights when you need a little extra comfort.

What makes this recipe special is its simplicity and versatility. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you can create a delicious dish that brings everyone together around the table. Trust me, your loved ones will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: In just 70 minutes, you can have ten servings ready to enjoy!
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves a good bowl of soup, and this one is full of flavors that kids and adults alike will appreciate.
• Comforting yet healthy: With low calories and nutritious ingredients, it’s guilt-free indulgence.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can easily prepare this soup in advance and reheat it when you’re ready to serve.
• Customizable: Tailor it to your taste by adding your favorite vegetables or spices!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this Japanese Clear Soup Recipe, you’ll need some simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in the pot. Here’s what you’ll need:

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

This Japanese Clear Soup Recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with ingredients to suit your preferences.

• Add extra greens: Toss in some spinach or bok choy for an added nutritional boost.
• Swap the protein: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken and beef broth for a vegetarian version.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chili oil if you like a bit of heat.
• Incorporate more veggies: Try adding bell peppers or zucchini for extra color and flavor.

How to Make Japanese Clear Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sear the Vegetables

Place a large 8-quart stock pot over medium-high heat. Add the sesame oil (or peanut oil), then toss in the onion, garlic, carrots, and ginger. It’s essential to sear these vegetables on all sides until they caramelize; this step enhances their natural sweetness while providing depth to the broth. Just be careful not to burn the garlic!

Step 2: Simmer the Broth

Pour in the chicken broth, beef broth, and water. Bring everything to a boil before lowering the heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Allow it to bubble away for at least one hour – this will develop rich flavors that are so comforting!

Step 3: Strain the Vegetables

Once your soup has simmered beautifully, use a skimmer to remove all the vegetables from the broth. Give it a taste and add salt as needed. This step ensures you’re left with only the flavorful liquid that will be served.

Step 4: Serve with Flair

To serve your Japanese Clear Soup Recipe, ladle hot broth into bowls. Top each bowl with freshly chopped scallions and thinly sliced mushrooms for an appealing presentation. Enjoy every warm spoonful with family or friends!

Pro Tips for Making Japanese Clear Soup Recipe

Creating the perfect Japanese Clear Soup is all about enhancing flavors and ensuring a comforting experience. Here are some tips to help you achieve that!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables like ginger and garlic enhance the flavor significantly compared to dried versions. Fresh ingredients also add vibrant colors and nutrients, making your soup not just tasty but also healthy.

• Control the Heat: Searing your vegetables over medium-high heat helps caramelize their natural sugars, deepening the flavor without burning them. This technique creates a rich base for your broth that elevates the overall taste of the soup.

• Adjust to Taste: Always taste your broth before serving. Adding salt gradually allows you to control the seasoning perfectly, ensuring that it’s just right for everyone’s palate.

• Let It Simmer: Allowing your soup to simmer for at least an hour extracts maximum flavor from your ingredients. The longer it simmers, the more aromatic and flavorful it becomes, creating a comforting bowl of goodness.

• Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. The soup can last up to 3 days, but make sure to reheat gently on the stove to preserve its delicate flavors.

How to Serve Japanese Clear Soup Recipe

Serving this delightful Japanese Clear Soup is as much about presentation as it is about taste. Here are some creative ideas to make your dish shine!

Garnishes

• Chopped Scallions: Sprinkle fresh chopped scallions on top right before serving for a burst of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the broth beautifully.
• Sliced Mushrooms: Add thinly sliced mushrooms as a garnish for added texture and an earthy flavor that enhances the overall experience of eating this soup.
• Cilantro or Parsley: For a fresh touch, consider adding a few leaves of cilantro or parsley on top for a pop of green and an aromatic finish.

Side Dishes

• Edamame: These young soybeans are lightly salted and provide a fun crunch alongside your soup. They’re packed with protein and make for a nutritious snack.
• Seaweed Salad: A refreshing seaweed salad tossed in sesame oil adds a hint of umami while balancing out the lightness of the clear soup. It’s both healthy and delicious!
• Gyoza (Dumplings): These savory dumplings can be filled with vegetables or chicken, making them a perfect accompaniment. Their crispy exterior and tender filling complement the brothy soup wonderfully.
• Rice Balls (Onigiri): Simple yet satisfying, rice balls can be seasoned with different fillings like pickled plum or seaweed. They offer a great textural contrast when served alongside your clear soup.

Enjoy creating this soothing bowl of Japanese Clear Soup! It’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re looking for comfort or just something light and delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Japanese Clear Soup Recipe is perfect for meal prep! With its light and refreshing flavors, you can easily make a large batch and enjoy it throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer the soup to an airtight container and refrigerate.
• Consume leftovers within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool down entirely before freezing.
• Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Heat gently on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• For microwave reheating, place in a microwave-safe bowl and cover loosely; heat in short intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

If you have questions about this delightful recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries from fellow home cooks.

What is the best way to make this Japanese Clear Soup Recipe vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version of this Japanese Clear Soup Recipe, simply substitute vegetable broth for chicken and beef broth. You can also add extra vegetables like bok choy or tofu for protein.

How can I enhance the flavor of my Japanese Clear Soup Recipe?

To enhance flavors, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or a dash of sesame seeds just before serving. Fresh herbs like cilantro can also elevate the taste!

Can I use different vegetables in this Japanese Clear Soup Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or even leafy greens. Just be mindful of cooking times to ensure everything is tender yet crisp.

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

The total time for this Japanese Clear Soup Recipe is around 70 minutes, which includes both prep and cooking time. It’s worth every minute!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this heartwarming Japanese Clear Soup Recipe! Its simplicity and deliciousness make it a wonderful addition to any meal. Enjoy making it for yourself or sharing it with loved ones—there’s something special about gathering around a warm bowl of soup. Happy cooking!