Japanese Clear Soup – A Traditional Dish With Aromatic Flavors

Japanese Clear Soup or suimono is a traditional dish that uses easy-to-find ingredients (or at least easy to find in Japan) to produce a spicy, earthy, warming meal. 

Using ingredients that are readily accessible in Japan, suimono transforms them into a harmonious blend of spicy, earthy, and warming elements. 

Each sip of this delicacy promises not only a burst of flavor but also a glimpse into the rich history and traditions of Japanese cuisine.

It serves as both a comfort dish and a culinary journey for those who partake.

What Is Japanese Clear Soup?

Some people would rather call suimono a broth than a soup because the result is very thin.

Because the Soup is thin, we wouldn’t call it a dinnertime meal unless you serve it alongside other Japanese food. Instead, it would do well as a light lunch.

The most important part of this Soup is its mushroom aesthetic. Although the liquid is somewhat clear (hence the name), the mushrooms stand out as the key visual in the meal.

Can You Vary The Recipe With Other Ingredients? 

• Keto Replace carrots with lower-carb vegetables like zucchini. Use bone broth for added nutrients and flavor.
• Paleo Skip the sesame seed oil and use avocado or coconut oil. Use Coconut Aminos instead of soy sauce.
• Gluten-Free Make sure the broths and Coconut Aminos are certified gluten-free.
• Whole30 Use homemade compliant broths and Coconut Aminos, and skip any processed seasonings.
• Vegetarian Substitute chicken and beef broths with vegetable broth. You can add tofu for extra protein.
• Vegan Along with using vegetable broth, replace any animal-derived ingredients with plant-based options. For umami, consider adding nutritional yeast.

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings 

Variations

• Seafood: Incorporate shrimp or fish for a maritime twist.
• Vegetarian: Use vegetable broth and tofu cubes as a protein substitute.
• Spicy: Add a chili oil or a few slices of jalapeño for heat.

Add-Ons

• Protein: Chicken, tofu, or thinly sliced beef can add a satisfying protein punch.
• Noodles: Add udon or soba noodles for a heartier version of the Soup.
• Leafy Greens: Spinach or bok choy can add color and nutrients.

Toppings

• Herbs: Fresh parsley, cilantro, or even mint can bring a new layer of flavor.
• Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds or flaxseeds can add a bit of crunch.
• Citrus: A squirt of lime or lemon juice can elevate the entire dish with acidity.

Can I Make Japanese Clear Soup In A Slow Cooker Or Instant Pot?

Slow Cooker

• Add all your ingredients—except for items like scallions and mushrooms that you’ll add later—into the slow cooker. 
• Set it low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours. Before serving, strain the liquid, return it to the cooker, add the remaining ingredients, and let them simmer until soft.

Instant Pot

• Use the sauté function for your initial sautéing of vegetables. Then add the broths and coconut aminos. Seal the lid, set it to manual pressure for 15 minutes, and quick-release. 
• Strain and return the liquid to the pot to add the remaining ingredients and use the sauté function to simmer them.

Can I Use Store Bought Broth, Or Should I Make My Own? 

Store-Bought

Convenience is the primary benefit here. Look for high-quality, organic, and low-sodium options for better control over seasoning. Some even come with added flavors like herbs or garlic for extra depth.

Homemade

Making your broth allows complete control over ingredients and flavor profile. It can be more nutritious and free of preservatives or additives. Homemade broth can also be tailored to specific dietary requirements, such as low-sodium or vegetarian.

How To Serve ? 

• Temperature: Ensure the Soup is served hot. Using a warmed bowl can help retain its temperature longer.
• Presentation: Use deep, wide bowls to showcase the clear broth. Place a few pieces of vegetables or meat in the bowl’s center for visual appeal.
• Garnish: Freshly chopped scallions, a sprinkle of sesame seeds, or a dash of red pepper flakes can add color and flavor contrasts.
• Accompaniments: Serve with a side of steamed white or brown rice or even traditional Japanese pickles.
• Timing: Serve immediately after preparation to retain the flavors and warmth, ensuring the freshest taste experience.

Perfect Side Dishes  

• Steamed Rice: Simple yet essential, steamed rice provides a neutral base, balancing the delicate flavors of the clear soup without overpowering it.
• Edamame: Lightly salted and steamed, these young soybeans are a healthy, protein-rich snack that pairs well with the subtlety of Japanese clear soup.
• Pickled Vegetables: A mix of pickled radish, cucumber, and carrots adds a tangy crunch, enhancing the mild taste of the soup with vibrant flavors.
• Seaweed Salad: A refreshing blend of seaweed, sesame seeds, and a light vinaigrette, this salad offers a umami-rich contrast to the clear soup.
• Tempura Vegetables: Lightly battered and fried, tempura vegetables provide a crispy texture and a slightly savory flavor that complements the clear soup beautifully.
• Gyoza (Dumplings): Pan-fried or steamed, these savory dumplings filled with vegetables or meat add a hearty and satisfying element to the meal.
• Japanese Pickles (Tsukemono): These colorful, tangy pickles offer a crisp and refreshing bite that balances the simplicity of the clear soup.

Storage And Make Ahead

• Cool Down Quickly: Allow the Japanese Clear Soup to cool rapidly to room temperature after cooking to prevent bacterial growth.
• Strain and Store: Strain the soup to remove solids, then transfer it into airtight containers for storage.
• Refrigerate Promptly: Place the containers of soup in the refrigerator promptly after cooling to maintain freshness and safety.
• Consume Within 3 Days: Enjoy the stored soup within 3 days of refrigeration for optimal taste and quality.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the soup in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat when ready to serve for a convenient and refreshing meal.

What Can We Do With Leftovers? 

• Rice Add-in: Pour the Soup over steamed rice for a comforting rice porridge.
• Stir-fry Base: A flavorful liquid base for stir-frying veggies or protein.
• Noodle Soup: Introduce cooked ramen, udon, or soba noodles for a quick noodle soup meal.
• Casserole Foundation: Incorporate into casseroles for enhanced moisture and taste.
• Sauce Reduction: Simmer until reduced and used as a sauce for meat or vegetables.
• Soup Remix: Add different veggies, proteins, or spices to create a new soup variant.
• Freeze for Later: Portion and freeze for a ready-made soup on hectic days.
• Egg Drop Soup: Stir in beaten eggs for a Japanese twist on egg drop soup.
• Poaching Liquid: Poach fish or chicken in the Soup for added flavor.

Tips

• Use Quality Dashi: Start with a flavorful dashi broth as the base, either homemade or high-quality instant dashi granules.
• Garnish Wisely: Enhance the soup’s flavor and appearance with thinly sliced green onions, shiitake mushrooms, and silken tofu.
• Simmer Gently: Avoid boiling the soup vigorously, as it can cloud the clear broth. Instead, simmer it gently to preserve clarity.
• Season Lightly: Add soy sauce and mirin sparingly to season the soup, allowing the delicate flavors to shine.
• Serve Immediately: Enjoy the Japanese Clear Soup immediately after cooking to experience its freshness and subtle nuances fully.

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