Japanese Clear Soup

Japanese Clear Soup is a delightful and soothing dish that brings the essence of traditional Japanese flavors to your table. This light soup is perfect for any occasion, whether as a warm starter on a chilly night or a refreshing side during a summer gathering. With its clean taste and comforting warmth, Japanese Clear Soup is sure to impress family and friends alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just over an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Broth: The combination of chicken and beef broth results in a rich, savory flavor that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a standalone soup or use it as a base for adding your favorite proteins or vegetables.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutritious vegetables like carrots and garlic, this soup is both nourishing and satisfying.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch ahead of time, store it in the fridge, and enjoy it throughout the week!

Tools and Preparation

To make your Japanese Clear Soup, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment not only simplifies the cooking process but also enhances your overall experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 8-quart stock pot
• Skimmer
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife

Importance of Each Tool

• 8-quart stock pot: A large pot allows you to cook ample servings at once, making it ideal for family meals or gatherings.
• Skimmer: This tool is great for removing vegetables from the broth without losing any flavor.
• Cutting board: A sturdy cutting board provides a safe surface for chopping your ingredients.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp chef’s knife makes cutting through vegetables quick and efficient.

Ingredients

A classic hibachi-style clear soup that’s light, soothing, and perfect for any time of year.

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, thinly sliced
• Salt, to taste

How to Make Japanese Clear Soup

Step 1: Sear the Vegetables

1. Place a large 8-quart stock pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the oil to the pot.
3. Once hot, add the onion, garlic, carrots, and ginger.
4. Sear the vegetables on all sides until caramelized but ensure not to burn the garlic.

Step 2: Prepare the Broth

1. Pour in the chicken broth, beef broth, and water into the pot.
2. Bring everything to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to maintain a low boil and simmer for at least one hour.

Step 3: Strain the Broth

1. Use a skimmer to remove all the vegetables from the broth carefully.
2. Taste your broth and add salt as needed.

Step 4: Serve Your Soup

1. Ladle the hot broth into bowls.
2. Top each bowl with chopped scallions and sliced mushrooms for added texture and flavor.

Enjoy your homemade Japanese Clear Soup! It’s sure to warm your heart and delight your taste buds.

How to Serve Japanese Clear Soup

Japanese Clear Soup is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Serving this soothing broth can enhance any meal, making it a delightful starter or a cozy dish on its own.

As an Appetizer

• Start your meal with a warm bowl of Japanese Clear Soup to stimulate the appetite and set a comforting tone for the dining experience.

With Fresh Vegetables

• Add fresh vegetables like bok choy or spinach to the soup just before serving for added nutrition and vibrant color.

Topped with Proteins

• Consider garnishing your soup with grilled chicken or tofu for an extra boost of protein, creating a heartier dish.

Accompanied by Rice

• Serve alongside steamed rice, allowing diners to enjoy the broth as they sip and savor every bite of this classic soup.

How to Perfect Japanese Clear Soup

Perfecting Japanese Clear Soup requires attention to flavor and technique. Here are some tips to elevate your broth.

• Use Quality Broth: Opt for homemade chicken and beef broth for a rich depth of flavor that store-bought versions often lack.
• Sear Your Vegetables: Browning the onions, garlic, and carrots enhances their natural sweetness, giving the soup a more complex taste.
• Balance Flavors: Adjust salt gradually while tasting, ensuring you achieve the perfect balance without overpowering the other ingredients.
• Strain Thoroughly: Removing all solid ingredients after simmering leaves you with a beautifully clear broth that’s visually appealing.

Best Side Dishes for Japanese Clear Soup

Pairing side dishes with Japanese Clear Soup can create a complete meal. Here are some delicious options to consider.

1. Edamame – Lightly salted young soybeans make for a healthy finger food full of protein.
2. Seaweed Salad – This refreshing salad adds texture and nutrients, complementing the soup’s flavors perfectly.
3. Cucumber Salad – A crisp cucumber salad dressed in vinegar provides a delightful contrast to the warm broth.
4. Steamed Dumplings – These savory bites can be filled with vegetables or protein, making them perfect for dipping in the soup.
5. Tempura Vegetables – Crispy tempura adds crunchiness that pairs well with the smooth texture of the clear soup.
6. Rice Balls (Onigiri) – These portable rice snacks can be eaten alongside the soup for a filling combination.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Japanese Clear Soup can be straightforward, but certain mistakes can hinder your results.

• Bold flavors: Using too many strong ingredients can overpower the delicate taste of the broth. Stick to fresh vegetables and herbs that complement rather than dominate.
• Overcooking vegetables: If you cook the vegetables for too long, they may disintegrate into the broth. Sear them just until caramelized for a rich flavor without mushiness.
• Neglecting seasoning: Not tasting the broth before serving can lead to bland soup. Always adjust the salt and consider adding a splash of vinegar for brightness.
• Skipping broth quality: Using low-quality or canned broths can diminish the soup’s taste. Opt for homemade or high-quality store-bought broths whenever possible.
• Ignoring simmer time: Rushing the simmering process can result in underdeveloped flavors. Give your soup enough time—at least an hour—to fully develop its taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing Japanese Clear Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Japanese Clear Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat soup in an oven-safe container until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
• Stovetop: Place in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Japanese Clear Soup.

What makes Japanese Clear Soup different from other soups?

Japanese Clear Soup is light and soothing, focusing on clarity and simple flavors compared to richer, cream-based soups.

How can I customize my Japanese Clear Soup?

You can add different vegetables like bok choy or spinach, or include proteins such as chicken or tofu for added nutrition.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute beef broth with vegetable broth and use only plant-based ingredients for a flavorful vegetarian option.

How do I enhance the flavor of my Japanese Clear Soup?

Adding fresh herbs like cilantro or basil at the end of cooking can elevate the freshness of your soup without overwhelming it.

How do I store leftover Japanese Clear Soup?

Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze them for longer storage options.

Final Thoughts

Japanese Clear Soup is not only comforting but also highly versatile. You can easily adapt it by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins to suit your taste. We encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy its soothing qualities any time of year!

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Japanese Clear Soup

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• Author: Alexia
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x

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Description

Experience the warmth and comfort of Japanese Clear Soup, a delightful dish that effortlessly combines traditional flavors and wholesome ingredients. This soothing broth is perfect for any occasion, serving as a warm starter on a chilly evening or a refreshing side dish during summer gatherings. With its rich, savory flavor derived from chicken and beef broth, complemented by a medley of fresh vegetables, this soup is sure to impress your family and friends. Quick to prepare and versatile enough to customize with your favorite proteins or greens, Japanese Clear Soup is an essential addition to your recipe collection.

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Ingredients

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• 2 teaspoons sesame oil (or peanut oil)
• 8 cups chicken broth
• 4 cups beef broth
• 4 cups water
• 1 large sweet onion, cut into wedges
• 6 cloves garlic, smashed
• 2 large carrots, cut into chunks
• 2-inch piece fresh ginger, sliced
• 4 whole scallions, chopped
• 10 button mushrooms, thinly sliced
• Salt, to taste

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Instructions

1. Heat sesame oil in an 8-quart stock pot over medium-high heat. Sear the onion, garlic, carrots, and ginger until caramelized.
2. Add chicken broth, beef broth, and water; bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for at least one hour.
3. Carefully strain the broth using a skimmer to remove vegetables. Adjust salt as necessary.
4. Serve hot topped with chopped scallions and sliced mushrooms.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Japanese

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 120
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 25mg