Japanese Miso Soup Recipe Perfect With 5 Essential Ingredients

Embark on a culinary journey to the heart of Japan straight from your kitchen. Discover the soul-soothing warmth of a traditional Japanese Miso soup recipe. As ancient as the Land of the Rising Sun, this iconic broth holds the essence of Japanese cuisine. 

Harness the umami-packed power of miso paste, creating an inviting aroma that fills your home, igniting memories or sparking the desire for adventure. Relish the softness of tofu and the tender crunch of wakame, elements carefully married in this harmonious symphony of flavors. 

Each spoonful carries the wisdom of centuries, masterfully balancing savory, sweet, and slightly salty notes. Master the art of simplicity, and welcome an authentic piece of Japan into your mealtime ritual. 

Experience the tranquility and subtle complexity of miso soup, a testament to Japan’s culinary heritage, an enchanting melody of taste to serenade your senses.

What Is A Japanese Miso Soup Recipe?

Japanese Miso Soup, a classic and heartening dish, consists of miso paste, dashi (a flavorful stock), tofu, and wakame seaweed. The preparation starts with creating dashi by steeping bonito flakes and kombu seaweed. The miso paste, known for its umami richness, is then incorporated into the stock, resulting in a delightful and satisfying soup.

Cubes of silken tofu and rehydrated wakame are added, making for a delightful textural contrast. Simple yet deeply flavorful, Miso Soup is typically served as a starter or side dish, encapsulating the serenity and depth of Japanese cuisine.

History Of Japanese Miso Soup Recipe

The history of Miso Soup dates back to Japan’s Jomon period (14,000-300 BC), making it an integral part of the country’s culinary heritage. Initially, the soup’s primary ingredient, miso, was a luxury only accessible to nobles and monks. As cultivation techniques evolved, it became a dietary staple amongst the masses. 

Over the centuries, miso soup maintained simplicity, yet its ingredients varied by region and season. From the hearty Hokkaido variant featuring potatoes and corn to the light Kyoto style with its delicate tofu and wakame, this soup’s versatility is a testament to Japan’s diverse culinary landscape and respect for natural, seasonal produce.

Interesting Facts About Japanese Miso Soup Recipe

• Daily Ritual: Miso soup is a daily staple in Japanese cuisine, often consumed with every meal, including breakfast. It’s considered a cornerstone of a well-rounded, nutritious diet.
• Nutrient-Rich: Miso, a fermented soybean paste, is rich in probiotics, aiding digestion and contributing to gut health. Moreover, the soup contains essential nutrients like vitamins B, E, K, and folic acid.
• Seasonal Variations: The ingredients in miso soup can change with the seasons. In colder months, root vegetables may be added, while tender greens might be included in spring.
• Regional Diversity: There’s a substantial regional variation in miso soup recipes across Japan. The type of miso used (white, red, or mixed) and the choice of ingredients often reflect local produce and regional preferences.
• Symbol of Hospitality: Serving miso soup to guests signifies warm hospitality in Japanese culture. It means the host’s wish for their guests’ well-being.
• Longevity: In Okinawa, known for its high percentage of centenarians, miso soup is a common part of the daily diet, suggesting a link between this simple dish and longevity.

What Makes Japanese Miso Soup Recipe Special?

Japanese miso soup stands out due to its simplicity and depth of flavor, stemming from just a few carefully chosen ingredients. The umami-rich miso paste is the star, lending a complex flavor profile that is both savory and slightly sweet.

The use of dashi, a stock made from kombu seaweed and bonito flakes, imparts a unique taste that lays the foundation of the soup. The interplay of soft tofu and crisp wakame seaweed adds textural intrigue.

Miso soup’s adaptability is also noteworthy. Its recipe changes with the seasons and regions, reflecting local ingredients and preferences, making each rendition a unique culinary experience.

Ingredients List 

Ingredient Tips 

• Miso Paste: There are various types of miso paste, including white (Shiro), red (Aka), and mixed (Awase). Each offers a different flavor profile. Shiro is sweeter and milder, while Aka is saltier and robust. Awase, a mix of both, strikes a balance. Experiment to find the one you prefer.
• Dashi: The flavor of miso soup is mostly dependent on the soup base. Although instant dashi can be purchased, preparing it from scratch with kombu and bonito flakes will result in a richer, more genuine flavor.
• Tofu: Silken tofu is typically used in miso soup due to its soft, custard-like texture. It’s delicate and breaks apart easily, adding to the soup’s comfort factor.
• Wakame: This dried seaweed adds a unique flavor and texture. Rehydrate it in water before adding it to the soup.
• Fresh Ingredients: If you add vegetables, ensure they’re new and seasonal for the best flavor.
• Adding Miso: To prevent the miso from clumping and to keep its beneficial probiotics intact, avoid boiling the soup after adding the miso paste. Instead, dissolve it in a ladle with some warm broth first, then add it back to the pot.
• Serving Immediately: Miso soup is best served immediately to enjoy its maximum flavor and keep the tofu from becoming tough and the miso from fermenting.

Can You Vary The Recipe With Other Ingredients? 

• Keto: Traditional miso soup is already quite low in carbs. However, to make it more keto-friendly, consider adding healthy fats, like avocado cubes or a drizzle of sesame oil.
• Paleo: Replace tofu (since it’s soy-based) with meat or fish. Consider adding mushrooms for a hearty, earthy flavor.
• Gluten-Free: Ensure the miso paste is gluten-free; some brands may contain barley or wheat. Tamari can be used instead of soy sauce if needed.
• Whole30: This diet excludes soy, so you must omit the tofu and ensure your miso paste is soy-free. Add more veggies or some compliant seafood for extra body.
• Vegetarian and Vegan: The traditional recipe uses dashi made from bonito (fish flakes). For a vegan/vegetarian version, you can make kombu-only dashi or use vegetable broth as the soup base. Also, make sure the miso paste you use is fish-free, as some varieties may contain bonito.

Recipe Directions 

• Start by diluting miso in warm water to ensure even distribution of flavors. 
• Next, add all the ingredients, such as tofu, seaweed, and mushrooms, into the soup maker, except for the vibrant spring onions, crisp bean sprouts, nutty sesame seeds, and fragrant sesame oil. 
• Allow the soup maker to cook the mixture for approximately 10 minutes, ensuring the vermicelli and other ingredients are thoroughly heated. 
• For a satisfying texture, use the chunky setting to blend the soup. 
• Just before serving, add the refreshing spring onions, crunchy bean sprouts, and toasty sesame seeds for a burst of colors and textures. 
• Finally, drizzle the fragrant sesame oil, infusing the soup with its delightful aroma. 

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings

Variations

• Explore different miso types. White miso lends a milder, sweeter flavor, while red miso offers a richer taste.
• Substitute traditional tofu with meat, seafood, or vegetables for added texture and flavor.
• Experiment with different types of seaweed, such as nori or dulse, for a unique twist.

Add-Ons

• Intensify the soup’s body with shiitake mushrooms or thinly sliced root vegetables.
• Amplify protein content by introducing cooked chicken, shrimp, or thinly sliced beef.
• Enhance the soup’s nutritional value with colorful vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach.

Toppings

• Top off with a sprinkle of chopped scallions for a fresh, vibrant finish.
• Add a hint of heat with a dash of chili oil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
• A spoonful of sesame seeds or toasted seaweed slices introduces a pleasing crunch.
• A drizzle of soy sauce or a dollop of chili paste can deepen the flavor.
• A squeeze of fresh lime juice adds a subtle tangy note, balancing the soup’s savory character.

Scaling The Recipe 

To Scale Up

• If you’re cooking for a larger group, multiply the quantity of each ingredient by the number of servings you wish to make. For example, if the original recipe serves 2 and you want to serve 6, you would multiply all the ingredient quantities by 3. Be mindful of the size of your cooking pot, ensuring it can accommodate the increased volume.

To Scale Down

• If you’re cooking for fewer people, divide the quantity of each ingredient by the desired number of servings. For example, if the recipe serves 4 and you only want to serve 2, you would divide all ingredient quantities in half.

What Is Used For Garnishing?

• Green Onions/Scallions: Finely chopped scallions add a fresh, crisp element and a vibrant green color to the soup.
• Sesame Seeds: A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds contributes a mild nutty flavor and a delightful crunch.
• Seaweed: Thinly sliced or torn pieces of nori (dried seaweed) provide a unique taste and add visual appeal.
• Tofu: Small cubes of silken tofu can also be used for garnishing, adding a subtle contrast in texture.
• Fresh Herbs: A few leaves of fresh herbs, such as cilantro or parsley, can also be used for an aromatic touch.

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

Slow Cooker

• Add the dashi, tofu, wakame, and other ingredients (except for the miso) to the slow cooker.
• Cook on low for several hours until all the flavors meld together.
• Before serving, take a bit of the soup broth, dissolve the miso, and then stir this mixture into the slow cooker.

Instant Pot

• Use the sauté function to heat your dashi.
• Add your tofu, wakame, and any other ingredients (again, excluding the miso) and pressure cook on high for a few minutes.
• Once done, use the quick release, and when it’s safe to open, dilute the miso in some soup broth before stirring it back into the Instant Pot.

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

While making your own dashi (broth) from scratch for miso soup is traditionally recommended, using a store-bought version can be a practical alternative for those short on time or new to Japanese cooking. The flavor of your dashi will be fresher and more authentic if you make it using kombu (dry kelp) and bonito flakes. 

You have more control over the flavor because you can customize the intensity and saltiness to your preferences. Additionally, homemade dashi is devoid of any preservatives or additives that may be included in some commercially available varieties.

On the other hand, store-bought dashi, which often comes in instant granules or liquid form, is convenient and can still create a delicious miso soup. If you’re going for this option, look for high-quality, MSG-free versions for a cleaner taste.

Can I Use Different Types Of Meat/Fish/Pasta/Vegetables For The Soup?

• Meat: Thinly sliced pork or chicken can be used. Cook the meat in the dashi until tender before adding the miso.
• Fish: White fish, shellfish like clams, or shrimp make good additions. Make sure to cook the seafood in the dashi first thoroughly.
• Pasta: While it’s not traditional, you could replace the typical rice accompaniment with noodles. Soba (buckwheat) or udon (wheat) noodles would complement the flavors well.
• Vegetables: Almost any vegetable can be added. Common choices include mushrooms, daikon radishes, carrots, and leafy greens like spinach or bok choy. More western options like broccoli, zucchini, or bell peppers can also work. Just make sure to cut them into small, uniform pieces for even cooking.

Success Tips – Tips And Tricks For Making The Recipe 

Making miso soup is generally straightforward, but a few tips and tricks can help elevate your soup to new heights:

Prepping Tips

• Prepare Ingredients Ahead: Chop your ingredients into uniform sizes for even cooking and better presentation.
• Soak Wakame: Dried wakame seaweed expands significantly upon rehydration, so soak it separately before adding it to the soup.
• Freshness is Key: Use the freshest ingredients for the best flavor, especially for tofu and vegetables.

Cooking Tips

• Start with Dashi: The base of the soup, dashi, is critical to a delicious miso soup. Homemade dashi can make a significant difference, but a high-quality store-bought option can work in a pinch.
• Add Miso Last: Miso should be added at the end of cooking to maintain its health benefits and delicate flavor. Avoid boiling it directly.
• Dilute Miso: To ensure a smooth consistency, dilute miso in a small amount of warm soup broth before incorporating it into the soup.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Miso soup doesn’t take long to cook. Overcooking can make tofu tough, and vegetables lose their vibrant color and crispness.
• Adjust to Taste: Miso soup is flexible. Feel free to adjust the amount of miso or types of ingredients used to suit your taste preferences.

Nutritional Values 

Discover the power-packed nutritional benefits of our soups! From vitamins and minerals to hearty flavors, our soups provide a wholesome balance to nourish your body and satisfy your taste buds.

What Are The Total Calories In The Soup?

The total calories in miso soup can vary greatly depending on the specific ingredients and their quantities used. However, a basic miso soup typically contains around 35-45 calories per 100g serving.

This estimation includes the calories from the miso paste, tofu, wakame seaweed, and dashi. If you add additional ingredients like meat, vegetables, or noodles, the calorie count will increase accordingly.

Dietary Restrictions Of The Soup

• Gluten-Free: Miso is typically gluten-free, but some brands may contain barley or other gluten-containing grains, so always check the label if you’re following a gluten-free diet.
• Vegan and Vegetarian: While miso and tofu are plant-based, traditional dashi broth is made from bonito fish flakes. If you’re vegan or vegetarian, look for plant-based dashi or make your own using kombu (kelp) and dried shiitake mushrooms.
• Low Sodium: Miso soup can be high in sodium due to the miso paste and soy sauce. If you’re on a low-sodium diet, choose a low-sodium miso or reduce the amount of miso used. You can always add more flavor with herbs and other seasonings.
• Allergies: If you have a soy or seafood allergy, be aware that traditional miso soup contains soy (from the miso and tofu) and fish (from the dashi).
• Paleo and Keto: Traditional miso soup isn’t suitable for paleo or keto diets due to the soy-based miso and tofu. However, with some alterations, like using bone broth instead of dashi and omitting tofu, it could be adapted to fit these diets.

Health Benefits Of The Soup

• Probiotics: Miso paste is a fermented product rich in probiotics that promote gut health and support a healthy immune system.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Miso soup is a good source of several essential nutrients, including vitamins K, B, manganese, and zinc.
• Protein: Tofu, a common ingredient in miso soup, provides plenty of plant-based protein.
• Hydration: As a warm, broth-based soup, it aids in keeping the body hydrated.
• Low Calorie: A typical serving of miso soup is relatively low in calories, making it a good choice for those watching their caloric intake.
• Antioxidants: Ingredients like tofu and seaweed are rich in antioxidants, which help fight off harmful free radicals in the body.
• Heart Health: Some studies suggest that miso can help lower LDL cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease.
• Bone Health: The soy isoflavones in miso help maintain bone density, possibly reducing the risk of osteoporosis.

Nutrition Table 

How Can I Make The Soup Lower In Sodium? 

• Choose Low-Sodium Miso: Some brands offer a low-sodium version of miso. Check the labels while shopping to find one that suits your needs.
• Use Less Miso: Another simple way to reduce the sodium content is to use less miso paste. You can add more flavor with herbs, spices, or a squeeze of fresh citrus like lime or lemon.
• Make Your Dashi: Store-bought dashi can be high in sodium. Making your dashi allows you to control the sodium level. Using kombu (kelp) and dried shiitake mushrooms, you can make flavorful, low-sodium dashi.
• Add More Vegetables: Adding more vegetables to your soup increases its nutritional value and helps balance the overall sodium content per serving.
• Limit Added Salt: Avoid additional sodium seasonings, such as soy sauce.

How Can I Make The Soup Lower In Sugar? 

• Check Your Miso: Some types of miso, especially the red or brown varieties, may contain a small amount of added sugars. Check the labels when you’re purchasing your miso paste.
• Avoid Sweetened Soy Products: If you add soy sauce or other soy-based products, ensure they are unsweetened varieties.
• Be Mindful of Vegetables: While vegetables are healthy and add flavor and nutrients, some root vegetables (like carrots) can have a higher sugar content. Balance these with lower-sugar vegetables like leafy greens or mushrooms.
• Skip Sugary Additions: If a recipe calls for mirin or sake containing sugar, you could omit these or use a dry white wine or unsweetened rice vinegar instead.

How To Serve The Soup At Its Best?

• Temperature: Miso soup is best served hot. Ensure it is piping hot when you serve it, but avoid boiling it after adding the miso paste to retain the soup’s probiotic benefits.
• Accompaniment: It is often served alongside a bowl of steamed rice as part of a typical Japanese meal. It also pairs well with pickled vegetables, grilled fish, or a side of stir-fried or steamed vegetables.
• Serving Bowl: Miso soup is traditionally served in lacquer bowls with lids in Japan. The cover helps to keep the soup hot and allows the aroma to be enjoyed when lifted.
• Utensils: Miso soup is typically drunk directly from the bowl, with larger ingredients eaten with chopsticks. However, a small soup spoon can also be used.
• Garnishing: Just before serving, you can garnish the soup with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, or a drizzle of sesame oil for added flavor and aesthetic appeal.

 Perfect Side Dishes To Complement Soup Recipe

• Steamed Rice: A staple in Japanese cuisine, steamed white rice is often served with miso soup, making for a simple and satisfying meal.
• Sushi or Sashimi: The fresh flavors of sushi or sashimi offer a delightful contrast to the warm, comforting miso soup.
• Grilled Fish: Try serving miso soup with grilled mackerel or salmon. The oily fish beautifully balances the soup’s lightness.
• Pickled Vegetables (Tsukemono): The tangy crunch of pickled vegetables can contrast the soup’s umami depth.
• Japanese Omelet (Tamagoyaki): This slightly sweet and savory rolled omelet adds a different texture and taste that nicely complements the soup.
• Stir-Fried or Steamed Vegetables: A side of simple stir-fried or steamed seasonal vegetables with a light soy or sesame dressing would pair well.
• Tofu Dishes: Agedashi tofu (deep-fried tofu in a soy-based sauce) or hiyayakko (chilled tofu with toppings) can complement the soup well, creating a tofu-themed meal.

How Long Can We Store The Soup?

Miso soup is best enjoyed fresh after it’s made to ensure its delicate flavors and textures are at their peak. However, if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

When reheating, do so gently over low heat to prevent the miso’s beneficial probiotics from being destroyed by high temperatures. Also, note that some ingredients, like tofu and wakame seaweed, can change texture upon reheating.

If you’d like to prepare miso soup in advance, a good tip is to make the dashi broth and keep it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days or freeze it for longer storage. You can then reheat the broth, add fresh ingredients, and dissolve the miso paste before serving. This way, you’ll have fresh-tasting miso soup ready in minutes.

Can I Make The Soup In Advance?

Yes, you can prepare miso soup in advance, although there are a few things to keep in mind to maintain its optimal flavor and freshness:

• Make the Dashi: You can prepare the dashi (broth) in advance. It can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or frozen longer.
• Hold the Miso: Adding the miso paste before serving is best. This preserves the miso’s flavor and beneficial probiotics, which can be destroyed by prolonged cooking or high heat.
• Fresh Ingredients: Ingredients like tofu, scallions, or wakame seaweed are best added fresh at the time of serving, as their texture can change when reheated.
• Reheat Gently: When ready to serve, reheat the dashi gently on the stove (don’t let it boil), dissolve the miso paste, and add the fresh ingredients.

What Can We Do With Leftovers?

• Grain Cooking Liquid: Use leftover miso soup to cook grains like rice or quinoa for an added flavor boost.
• Noodle Broth: Reheat the soup gently and toss in some cooked noodles for a quick miso noodle soup.
• Sauce Base: Use the leftover soup for a flavorful stir-fry sauce.
• Steamed Vegetables: Drizzle warmed leftover miso soup over steamed vegetables for a unique dressing.
• Soup Add-In: Enhance the flavor of another soup or stew by adding the leftover miso soup.
• Marinade: Use the soup for tofu, fish, or chicken, infusing them with umami flavor.

Special Tools/Equipment Needed

• Pot or Saucepan: A medium-sized pot or saucepan is necessary to heat the dashi (broth) and dissolve the miso.
• Sieve or Strainer: A fine-mesh sieve or strainer helps dissolve the miso paste into the soup, ensuring no clumps. This method also controls the miso paste you add to the soup.
• Ladle: A ladle is handy for serving the soup and for mixing the miso paste into the soup.
• Knife and Cutting Board: These are needed to prepare the tofu and any other ingredients you add, such as green onions or seaweed.
• Soup Bowls: Traditional miso soup is served in small, lidded bowls, but any small bowls will work.
• Optional – Soup Maker: If you have a soup maker, it can simplify the process, allowing you to add your ingredients, set your preferred consistency, and let the machine do the work.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Why Is My Miso Soup Cloudy?

Miso soup can become cloudy if the miso paste isn’t properly dissolved or overcooked. To avoid this, remove some warm dashi from the pot, dissolve the miso paste using a strainer, then add it back. Avoid boiling the soup after adding the miso.

Can I Freeze Miso Soup?

It’s not recommended to freeze miso soup, mainly if it contains tofu or seaweed, as these ingredients can change texture upon freezing and thawing. However, when ready to serve, you can freeze the dashi (broth) and add fresh miso and ingredients.

Can I Use Any Miso Paste For Miso Soup?

Yes, depending on your preference, you can use any miso paste. Red miso offers a robust, salty flavor, while white miso is sweeter and milder. Yellow miso, which falls in the middle, is often used for miso soup.

What Is Dashi?

Miso soup, like other Japanese foods, is made with dashi, a basic broth. It is commonly made with kombu (dry kelp) and bonito flakes, however there are various variations.

Is Miso Soup Suitable For A Vegan Diet?

Traditional miso soup is not vegan, as dashi often contains bonito flakes. However, you can make a vegan version using plant-based dashi, such as one made from kombu and dried shiitake mushrooms, and ensure your miso paste does not contain any fish or other animal products.

5 Essential Ingredients For Perfect Japanese Miso Soup Recipe

5 from 2 votes

Recipe by Hanna Barnes Course: Soup Recipe

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking time

10

minutes

Calories

100

kcal

Miso soup is a traditional Japanese delicacy brimming with umami goodness. The blend of flavorful dashi and robust miso creates a savory broth that warms from the inside out. Miso soup is a versatile cornerstone of Japanese cuisine, perfect as an appetizer or a companion to a main dish.

Ingredients List

• Water

• Warm water

• Miso

• Rice vermicelli

• Soft tofu (cubed)

• Enoki mushrooms

• Spring onions (chopped)

• Bean sprouts

• Sesame seeds

• Sesame oil

Step-By-Step Directions 

• Begin by diluting your chosen miso in warm water, ensuring it dissolves entirely for a smooth, rich base.
• Add all your ingredients, except the spring onions, bean sprouts, sesame seeds, and sesame oil, to the soup maker.
• Securely cover your soup maker and set it to cook for approximately 10 minutes. This is the necessary time to thoroughly cook the vermicelli and ensure all ingredients reach a piping-hot temperature.
• Once your soup is thoroughly cooked, use the blend function on your machine. Using the ‘chunky’ setting for this recipe is recommended to retain some texture.
• The final step involves adding a fresh crunch and a hint of flavor. Stir in the finely chopped spring onions, crisp bean sprouts, and aromatic sesame seeds. Drizzle in the sesame oil for a subtle, nutty depth.
• Serve immediately, allowing your guests to experience this delightful soup’s harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Enjoy it as it is, or pair it with your preferred side dish for a complete meal.

Recipe Video

https://youtu.be/v4aXJsfl_Ss

Notes

• Though simple in its core ingredients, miso soup allows for customization. 
• Feel free to experiment by adding mushrooms, root vegetables, or different types of seaweeds to the mix. 
• Just remember, the quality of your dashi and miso paste plays a vital role in the final taste, so select these ingredients carefully. 
• Additionally, do so gently when reheating to preserve the probiotics in the miso. 
• Enjoy this age-old culinary tradition from Japan and experience a world of flavors in each bowl.

• Author
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Hanna Barnes

Hanna is a writer at Soup Chick. Yulia's website reignited her passion for crafting affordable, veggie-packed soups. She is certified by the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts and has expertise in healthy, baking, and vegan cuisine. With years of food blogging and collaborating with chefs, she offers a range of recipes on Soup Chick, from classic broths to the heavenly slow cooker chicken tortilla soup. Join her in creating flavorsome, wholesome soups in your kitchen!

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