Clear Soup Recipe

Clear soup, a traditional part of Japanese soups, highlights simplicity and purity. With a delicate blend of vegetables and a clear, savory broth, this soup is comforting, light, and perfect for any time of the year. This clear soup recipe brings you the authentic taste of Japanese Hibachi restaurants, but it’s incredibly easy to make at home. Whether you’re new to Japanese cuisine or a seasoned enthusiast, this recipe will bring warmth and a touch of elegance to your table.

Recipe by SoukaynaCuisine: JapaneseDifficulty: Easy

Servings

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

minutes

Calories

kcal

Experience the delicate flavors of Japanese cuisine with this clear soup recipe. Perfect as an appetizer or a light meal, this soup combines simple ingredients to create a broth that is both soothing and flavorful, reminiscent of Hibachi clear soup recipes served in Japanese restaurants.

Ingredients

1.5 liters of water
1 medium carrot, thinly sliced
1/2 onion, thinly sliced
1 celery stalk, sliced
1 clove garlic, smashed
1-inch piece of ginger, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 green onions, finely chopped (for garnish)
Optional: sliced mushrooms, tofu cubes, or a dash of dashi powder

Directions

Prepare the Broth: Start by bringing the water to a boil in a medium-sized pot. Add the carrot, onion, celery, garlic, and ginger. Reduce to a simmer and let the flavors infuse for about 15 minutes.
Season the Soup: Add soy sauce, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir well and taste to adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Strain the Broth: For a clear soup, remove the vegetables using a strainer or slotted spoon. If you prefer a heartier soup, leave the vegetables in.
Garnish and Serve: Pour the hot soup into bowls, garnish with chopped green onions, and enjoy immediately. Add optional ingredients like mushrooms or tofu for extra flavor and texture.

Notes

For a richer flavor, you can substitute water with vegetable or chicken broth.
To make it more filling, consider adding cooked rice or noodles to the soup.

Tips for a perfect Clear Soup Recipe

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and ginger make a significant difference in the flavor. Avoid pre-ground garlic or ginger for the best results.
Avoid Over-Salting: Start with less salt, taste, and adjust. Soy sauce already adds saltiness.
Add a Dash of Dashi: If you want a more authentic Japanese flavor, add a teaspoon of dashi powder to the soup.

Recipe Variants

Miso Clear Soup: After straining the vegetables, add 1 tablespoon of miso paste and stir until fully dissolved. This variant adds a richer, umami flavor to the broth.
Chicken Clear Soup: Substitute water with chicken broth, and add shredded cooked chicken to make a heartier, protein-rich soup.

FAQ

Can I make this clear soup recipe vegetarian?

Yes! The recipe is vegetarian, and you can enhance it with tofu or seaweed for added flavor.

Can this soup be made ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can prepare the broth in advance, store it in the refrigerator, and reheat when ready to serve.

How do I store leftover soup?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.

What makes this different from other Hibachi clear soup recipes?

This recipe simplifies the traditional Hibachi soup, making it easy to prepare at home while retaining its authentic taste. The use of fresh ingredients is key to its flavor.

This clear soup recipe is the perfect balance of simplicity and flavor, making it a delightful part of any meal or a standalone appetizer. Inspired by traditional Japanese soups and Hibachi clear soup recipes, it’s light, warm, and full of subtle, comforting flavors. The next time you’re craving something gentle yet flavorful, give this easy recipe a try. It’s sure to bring warmth and a touch of elegance to your dining table.