Description
This Japanese Clear Mushroom Soup is a light and flavorful broth-based soup highlighting the delicate taste of shiitake and other mushrooms. It is enhanced with traditional ingredients like dashi stock, soy sauce, and mirin, making it a comforting and umami-rich starter or light meal. Quick to prepare, this soup combines simple seasoning and fresh garnishes to create an authentic Japanese experience.
Ingredients
Scale
Soup Base
- 4 cups dashi stock (instant dashi powder or homemade)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp mirin
- 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 tsp white pepper (optional)
- 1 tsp sesame oil (optional, for added flavor)
Mushrooms and Vegetables
- 1 cup shiitake mushrooms, sliced (or a mix of oyster, enoki, or button mushrooms)
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced green onions (scallions)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley or cilantro (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the Stock: In a medium pot, bring the dashi stock to a simmer over medium heat, preparing a flavorful base for the soup.
- Cook the Mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for about 3-4 minutes until they soften and release their natural flavors into the broth, enriching the soup.
- Season the Soup: Stir in the soy sauce, mirin, sesame oil (if using), salt, and white pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning by adding more soy sauce or salt if needed to balance the flavors.
- Simmer: Allow the soup to simmer gently for another 2-3 minutes to meld all the ingredients together for a deeper, harmonious flavor.
- Add Fresh Onions: Just before serving, stir in the thinly sliced green onions to add a fresh and subtle bite, then remove the pot from heat.
- Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired, and serve immediately for the best experience.
Notes
- You can use any combination of mushrooms depending on availability and preference, such as enoki or oyster mushrooms for varied texture.
- Instant dashi powder is a convenient shortcut, but homemade dashi provides a more authentic and richer flavor.
- Sesame oil is optional but adds a nice depth and aroma to the soup.
- Adjust the salt and soy sauce carefully to maintain a balanced umami flavor without overpowering the delicate broth.
- This soup is best enjoyed fresh and should be served immediately after garnishing.
