Miso soup is a classic Japanese dish known for its umami flavor and comforting warmth. It typically features a savory broth made from miso paste, dashi, and various ingredients like tofu and seaweed.

This recipe is simple and quick to prepare, making it a perfect starter or side dish for any meal. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins.

Understanding Miso Soup

Miso soup is a staple in Japanese cuisine, celebrated for its comforting qualities and rich umami flavor.

This dish typically features a savory broth that combines miso paste with dashi, a traditional Japanese stock made from seaweed and fish.

Often served as a starter or side dish, miso soup can be easily customized with various ingredients, making it a versatile choice for any meal.

Key Ingredients

The essence of miso soup lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients.

At the heart of the soup is dashi broth, which provides a deep, savory base.

Miso paste, available in different varieties such as white or red, adds depth and complexity to the flavor profile.

Soft tofu and rehydrated wakame seaweed contribute texture and nutrition, while thinly sliced green onions offer a fresh garnish.

Preparation Steps

Creating a bowl of miso soup is a straightforward process that typically takes around 20 minutes.

Begin by heating the dashi broth in a pot until it simmers.

Next, mix the miso paste with a small amount of hot broth in a separate bowl to ensure it dissolves smoothly before adding it back to the pot.

Gently incorporate the cubed tofu and wakame seaweed, allowing them to warm through for a few minutes.

Seasoning and Serving

Once the soup is heated, it’s time to taste and adjust the seasoning.

A splash of soy sauce can enhance the flavor, but be cautious with salt as miso itself is already salty.

When ready, ladle the soup into bowls and finish with a sprinkle of sliced green onions for a pop of color and freshness.

Serve hot, accompanied by chopsticks and a small dish of soy sauce for dipping.

Nutritional Benefits

Miso soup is not only comforting but also offers several nutritional benefits.

Each serving typically contains around 70 calories, making it a light option.

With a balance of protein from the tofu and essential nutrients from the seaweed, it can be a nourishing addition to your diet.

This soup is also low in fat, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.

Enjoying Miso Soup

Whether enjoyed as part of a traditional Japanese meal or as a comforting dish on its own, miso soup is a delightful experience.

The warm, golden broth, soft tofu, and seaweed create a satisfying combination that warms the soul.

Pair it with rice or a light salad for a complete meal, or savor it as a standalone treat on a chilly day.

Easy Miso Soup Recipe

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This miso soup combines dashi broth with miso paste, soft tofu, and wakame seaweed for a nourishing bowl. The recipe takes about 20 minutes from start to finish and serves 4 people.

Ingredients

• 4 cups dashi broth (or water with dashi powder)
• 3 tablespoons miso paste (white or red)
• 1 cup soft tofu, cubed
• 1/4 cup dried wakame seaweed, rehydrated
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce (optional)
• Salt to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Broth: In a pot, heat the dashi broth over medium heat until it begins to simmer.
2. Dissolve Miso: In a small bowl, mix the miso paste with a ladle of hot broth until smooth. Stir this mixture back into the pot.
3. Add Tofu and Seaweed: Gently add the cubed tofu and rehydrated wakame to the pot. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
4. Season: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with soy sauce or salt if needed.
5. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with sliced green onions. Serve hot.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

• Servings: 4 bowls
• Calories: 70kcal
• Fat: 3g
• Protein: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 6g