Japanese Clear Soup

Japanese Clear Soup is a delightful and nourishing option, perfect for any occasion. This light soup boasts a harmonious blend of flavors, making it a comforting choice whether you’re unwinding after a long day or serving guests at a special dinner. Its simplicity and versatility allow it to shine on its own or as a complement to various dishes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 5 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this flavorful soup in no time.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of chicken and beef broth creates a deep, satisfying taste that warms the soul.
• Healthy Choice: Low in calories yet high in nutrients, this soup is a great addition to any healthy diet.
• Versatile Serving: Enjoy it as an appetizer or main course; it adapts well to different meal settings.
• Easy to Customize: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or proteins for a personalized touch.

Tools and Preparation

To make Japanese Clear Soup, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment streamlines the cooking process and enhances your experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large 8-quart stock pot
• Skimmer
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large 8-quart stock pot: Ideal for simmering large quantities, ensuring even cooking and flavor development.
• Skimmer: Perfect for removing solids from the broth without losing flavor, keeping your soup clear and delicious.

Ingredients

Broths and Oils

• 2 teaspoons sesame oil (or peanut oil)
• 8 cups chicken broth
• 4 cups beef broth
• 4 cups water

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

Seasoning

• 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 sesame oil (or peanut oil).
3. Once hot, add the onion, garlic, carrots, and ginger to the pot.
4. Sear the vegetables on all sides until they are caramelized. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 2: Simmer the Broth

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

Step 3: Strain the Broth

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

Step 4: Serve

1. Ladle the hot broth into bowls.
2. Top with chopped scallions and sliced mushrooms before serving.

This Japanese Clear Soup is not only comforting but also packed with flavor and nutrition!

How to Serve Japanese Clear Soup

Japanese Clear Soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own or as part of a larger meal. Here are some creative ways to serve this soothing broth.

As a Starter

• Begin your meal with a warm bowl of Japanese Clear Soup to awaken the palate and set the tone for the dishes to come.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish your soup with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for added flavor and a vibrant touch that brightens each bowl.

Pair with Rice

• Serve alongside steamed rice to create a more filling meal. The rice absorbs the flavors of the soup, enhancing every bite.

With Dumplings

• Offer dumplings as a side option. Their savory filling complements the lightness of the broth, making for a balanced experience.

In a Larger Bowl

• For a heartier version, serve the soup in larger bowls and add cooked chicken or tofu for protein, making it more substantial.

How to Perfect Japanese Clear Soup

Perfecting your Japanese Clear Soup involves attention to detail and quality ingredients. Here are some tips to enhance this delightful broth.

• Use Quality Broth: Start with high-quality chicken and beef broth. This forms the base of your soup and deeply influences its flavor.
• Don’t Rush the Searing: Sear vegetables gently until caramelized. This step adds depth and richness to your broth.
• Adjust Salt Gradually: Taste as you go. Add salt incrementally to ensure you achieve the perfect level of seasoning without overpowering other flavors.
• Strain Well: Use a fine mesh strainer after simmering to ensure your broth is clear and free from impurities, giving it that classic look and taste.
• Garnish Creatively: Play with garnishes like sliced scallions or mushrooms; they add texture and freshness, making each bowl visually appealing.
• Allow it to Cool Completely: If making ahead, let it cool before storing. This helps retain flavors when reheating later.

Best Side Dishes for Japanese Clear Soup

Pairing sides with Japanese Clear Soup can elevate your dining experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Edamame
   Steamed edamame pods sprinkled with sea salt make for a nutritious snack that complements the soup’s lightness.
2. Vegetable Spring Rolls
   Crispy vegetable spring rolls provide crunch and contrast, filled with fresh veggies wrapped in rice paper.
3. Seaweed Salad
   A refreshing seaweed salad adds umami flavor and texture, balancing out the warming qualities of the soup.
4. Tempura Vegetables
   Lightly battered and fried vegetables offer a delightful crunch that pairs beautifully with warm broth.
5. Cucumber Salad
   A simple cucumber salad dressed in sesame oil brings brightness and acidity, enhancing your overall meal experience.
6. Sushi Rolls
   Simple vegetable sushi rolls can round out your meal nicely while keeping within the fresh theme of Japanese cuisine.
7. Grilled Chicken Skewers
   Juicy grilled chicken skewers seasoned with sesame bring protein into play while complementing the flavors of your broth.
8. Rice Balls (Onigiri)
   These compact rice balls can be filled with various ingredients, providing both sustenance and flavor alongside your soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Japanese Clear Soup can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes is key to achieving the best flavor and texture. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using dull vegetables: Fresh ingredients are essential. Old or wilted vegetables will not impart the desired flavor to your broth.
• Skipping the caramelization step: Searing your vegetables adds depth to the soup. Don’t rush this process; it enhances the overall taste.
• Not tasting as you go: Every broth varies in saltiness. Taste your soup periodically and adjust seasoning accordingly for a well-balanced flavor.
• Overcooking the broth: Simmering too long can result in bitter flavors. Stick to the recommended cooking time for optimal results.
• Neglecting presentation: A visually appealing dish enhances enjoyment. Use fresh scallions and mushrooms as a garnish for an attractive finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing it in containers.

Freezing Japanese Clear Soup

• Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months.
• Leave space at the top of containers, as liquid expands when frozen.

Reheating Japanese Clear Soup

• Oven: Pour into an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring between each interval.
• Stovetop: Place soup in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Japanese Clear Soup:

How do I make my Japanese Clear Soup richer?

Adding more aromatics like garlic or ginger during cooking can deepen the flavor profile of your Japanese Clear Soup.

Can I customize my Japanese Clear Soup?

Yes! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or proteins such as chicken or tofu for added nutrition and variety.

What is the best way to serve Japanese Clear Soup?

Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions and sliced mushrooms for a delightful presentation that enhances flavor.

How long does homemade Japanese Clear Soup last?

When stored properly, it lasts up to 4 days in the refrigerator and can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Final Thoughts

Japanese Clear Soup is a comforting and versatile dish suitable for any season. It’s easy to customize based on what you have on hand, making it a wonderful addition to any meal. Try experimenting with different vegetables or herbs to find your perfect blend!

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Japanese Clear Soup

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x

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Description

Japanese Clear Soup is a delightful and nourishing broth that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. This light yet flavorful soup features a harmonious blend of aromatic vegetables and rich chicken and beef broths, making it perfect for unwinding after a long day or impressing dinner guests. With its quick preparation and versatility, you can easily enjoy it as an appetizer or elevate it to a main course by adding your favorite proteins and veggies. This recipe is not only easy to customize but also a healthy choice packed with nutrients, making it a wonderful addition to your culinary repertoire.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

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

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Instructions

1. In a large stock pot over medium-high heat, add the sesame oil.
2. Once hot, add the onion, garlic, carrots, and ginger. Sear until caramelized.
3. Pour in the chicken broth, beef broth, and water; bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for at least one hour.
5. Use a skimmer to remove solids from the broth; season with salt as needed.
6. Serve hot in bowls topped with chopped scallions and sliced mushrooms.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Japanese

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 120
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 30mg