Japanese Clear Soup: Comfort in a Bowl for Home Cooks

Japanese Clear Soup is a nourishing comfort food that's easy to prepare, customizable, and delicious—a perfect bowl for home cooks.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 1

Total Time 1 15

Servings: 4 bowls

Course: Soups

Cuisine: Japanese

Calories: 150

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

2 tablespoons sesame oil Add a nutty aroma and flavor; substitute with peanut oil for a similar taste.
6 cups chicken broth Creates a savory base; use low-sodium broth to control salt levels.
2 cups beef broth Enhances richness and depth of flavor.
2 cups water Adjusts consistency; can be omitted for a richer broth.

For the Aromatics

1 medium sweet onion Contributes sweetness when caramelized; substitute with yellow onion.
2 cloves garlic Provides aroma and depth; fresh garlic is preferred.
1 tablespoon fresh ginger Gives warmth and spice; use ground ginger only if fresh isn’t available.

For the Vegetables

1 cup carrots Adds sweetness and texture; substitute with parsnips.
1 cup button mushrooms Adds umami and texture.
2 tablespoons scallions Offers fresh garnish; substitute with chives.

For Seasoning

to taste salt Enhances overall flavor; adjust based on broth’s sodium content.

Equipment

8-quart stock pot

Method

Step-by-Step Instructions

Heat 2 tablespoons of sesame oil in an 8-quart stock pot over medium-high heat, waiting for it to shimmer.
Add 1 diced sweet onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 cup of sliced carrots, and 1 tablespoon of fresh ginger to the pot. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until onion is translucent.
Pour in 6 cups of chicken broth, 2 cups of beef broth, and 2 cups of water. Stir and bring to a gentle boil.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to maintain a low boil and let it simmer uncovered for at least 1 hour.
Carefully strain the broth using a fine-mesh strainer to scoop out the vegetables.
Taste your clear broth and add salt to your liking. Stir well, then ladle into bowls.
Garnish with sliced scallions and button mushrooms before serving hot.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 12gProtein: 10gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 25mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Let the soup rest overnight for flavors to meld. Sauté the garlic until just golden to avoid bitterness. Experiment with broth combinations for different flavors.

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