Name: Japanese Clear Soup
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 1 h 5 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients: 2 teaspoons sesame oil (or peanut oil); 8 cups chicken broth; 4 cups beef broth; 4 cups water; 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, sliced thin; Salt, to taste

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If you’re a fan of Japanese hibachi restaurants, you’ve likely tried the delicious and comforting clear soup that’s often served as an appetizer. This Japanese Clear Soup is light, healthy, and full of flavor, making it the perfect dish to soothe the soul. With its rich broth and aromatic vegetables, it’s not just delicious but also a great way to start any meal. Whether you’re craving a warm bowl on a cold day or looking for a light dish, this recipe is easy to make and full of authentic flavor.

Japanese Clear Soup

Why You’ll Love This Soup:

Light & Refreshing: This soup has a delicate yet rich broth that’s satisfying without being heavy.
Aromatic & Flavorful: The combination of fresh vegetables, ginger, and sesame oil infuses the broth with a depth of flavor.
Healthy & Nourishing: Packed with nourishing ingredients like ginger, garlic, and vegetables, this soup is a great way to enjoy a comforting meal without the heaviness.
Quick & Easy: Once the ingredients are simmering, the soup practically makes itself, and the prep time is minimal.

Perfect For:

Starting a Meal: Serve it as a light appetizer before your main course.
Cold Weather Comfort: It’s perfect for those chilly days when you need something warm and soothing.
Health-Conscious Meals: This clear soup is light and filled with wholesome ingredients, making it a great choice for anyone watching their diet.

Preparation & Cooking Time:

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 10 cups
Calories per Serving: Approximately 50 kcal

Ingredients:

2 teaspoons sesame oil (or peanut oil)
8 cups chicken broth
4 cups beef broth
4 cups water
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, sliced thin
Salt, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Sear the Vegetables
Place a large 8-quart stock pot over medium-high heat. Add the sesame oil to the pot. Once hot, add the onion, garlic, carrots, and ginger to the pot. Sear the vegetables on all sides to caramelize them, making sure to avoid burning the garlic. This process adds a rich depth of flavor to the broth.

Step 2: Add Broth & Simmer
Pour in the chicken broth, beef broth, and water. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to a low boil. Let it simmer for at least one hour, allowing the flavors to meld together. If you have more time, you can let it simmer even longer to enhance the flavor.

Step 3: Remove the Vegetables
After an hour, use a skimmer or slotted spoon to remove the vegetables from the broth. Taste the broth, then add salt as needed to bring out the flavors.

Step 4: Serve
Ladle the hot broth into bowls. Top with chopped scallions and sliced mushrooms. Serve hot, and enjoy the comforting, aromatic flavors of your homemade Japanese clear soup.

Notes:

Make Ahead: Like many soups, this one actually tastes better the next day. If you have time, make it ahead and rewarm the broth before adding the scallions and mushrooms.
Soy Sauce: You can also add a splash of soy sauce to deepen the flavor and add an extra savory note to the broth.
Vegetarian Version: To make this soup vegetarian, simply use vegetable broth in place of the chicken and beef broths.

How to Serve:

This Japanese Clear Soup is perfect as a starter before a hibachi-style meal, sushi, or any Japanese-inspired dishes. It can also be served on its own for a light and healthy meal. For an extra boost, pair it with a side of rice or dumplings.

Conclusion:

This Japanese Clear Soup is an easy-to-make, flavorful, and healthy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of fresh vegetables, ginger, and savory broth will warm you up and leave you feeling satisfied. Whether you’re making it for a gathering or enjoying it on a quiet day at home, this soup is sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy every comforting sip!