This light and refreshing Japanese Clear Soup is the perfect starter. Made with simple ingredients like broth, mushrooms, and green onions, it warms you up in no time!
I love sipping this soup while imagining I’m in a cozy Japanese restaurant. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up! Just a few minutes and you’re ready for a cozy meal. 🍜
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Dashi Stock: This is the base of the soup and brings a rich umami flavor. If you can’t find dashi, you can make a quick version using instant dashi powder or substitute with vegetable broth for a lighter option.
Mushrooms: Shiitake mushrooms are traditional here for their flavor. However, you could use button mushrooms if shiitake isn’t available. They add great texture, too!
Spinach: Fresh spinach gives the soup a lovely color and nutrition. If you don’t have spinach, try bok choy or kale as alternatives. Both work well in soup.
Soy Sauce: This adds depth to the soup. Look for low-sodium versions if you’re watching your salt intake. Tamari is a great gluten-free alternative.
Mirin: The sweetness balances the salty soy sauce. If you can’t find mirin, you can use a bit of sugar mixed with rice vinegar as a substitute.
How Do I Make a Lovely Dashi Stock?
Dashi stock is important for the flavor of this soup. You can easily prepare it at home!
- Start with 4 cups of water, add a piece of kombu, and let it soak for about 30 minutes.
- Bring it to a gentle simmer, then add bonito flakes. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Strain out the solids, and you have fresh dashi. It’s quicker to use powder, but homemade dashi has a wonderful flavor!
Taking your time here makes a huge difference in the taste of your soup!
How to Make Japanese Clear Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 4 cups dashi stock (Japanese soup stock)
- 4 shiitake mushrooms, thinly sliced (or substitute with button mushrooms)
- 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves
- 1/4 cup enoki mushrooms (optional)
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp mirin (Japanese sweet rice wine)
- Salt to taste
- Fresh chives or scallions for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Japanese Clear Soup takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to cook. In a total of about 25 minutes, you’ll have a warm, comforting soup perfect for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dashi Stock:
Start by making the dashi stock. If using kombu and bonito flakes, simmer them together in 4 cups of water for about 5 minutes, then strain to remove the solids. If you’re short on time, you can use instant dashi powder mixed with water for a quicker option. This stock adds a deep umami flavor that’s essential for the soup.
2. Simmer the Stock:
In a pot, heat your freshly prepared dashi stock over medium heat until it begins to gently simmer. Be careful not to boil it aggressively, as this can change the flavor.
3. Add the Mushrooms:
Once the stock is simmering, add the sliced shiitake mushrooms and the enoki mushrooms (if you’re using them). Let everything cook together for about 3-5 minutes, or until the mushrooms are nice and tender.
4. Season the Soup:
Stir in the soy sauce and mirin, then taste your soup. You can add a pinch of salt if it needs a bit more flavor.
5. Add Spinach:
Next, toss in the fresh spinach leaves and let them simmer for another 1-2 minutes, just until they’re wilted and vibrant green.
6. Serve and Garnish:
Carefully ladle the hot soup into bowls. Sprinkle the sliced green onions and any fresh chives or scallions on top for a lovely finish.
7. Enjoy!
Serve your Japanese Clear Soup hot with chopsticks and a traditional Japanese soup spoon. It’s light, delicious, and perfect as an appetizer or a comforting meal on its own. Enjoy the wonderful flavors!
This clear soup is not only simple to make but also packed with delicate umami flavors that will surely impress your family and friends!
Can I Use Vegetable Broth Instead of Dashi Stock?
Yes, absolutely! While dashi stock gives a unique umami flavor typical of Japanese cuisine, vegetable broth is a great alternative if you prefer a vegetarian option. Just keep in mind that the flavor will be somewhat different.
Can I Make This Soup in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the soup base in advance. However, it’s best to add the fresh spinach and any delicate ingredients right before serving to ensure they maintain their texture and freshness.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove or in the microwave, and add a splash of water if the soup has thickened.
What Else Can I Add to This Soup?
You can customize the soup by adding tofu for extra protein, or vegetables like carrots and bok choy for added nutrition. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on what you add!
