If you’re craving a warm, comforting bowl of something light yet deeply flavorful, this Japanese Clear Soup Recipe is an absolute must-try. Combining the delicate balance of chicken and beef broths with earthy mushrooms and fragrant vegetables, this soup is a beautiful harmony of clarity and richness. It’s simple to make, wonderfully nourishing, and has that subtle umami character that instantly transports you to a cozy Japanese kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Japanese Clear Soup Recipe relies on a handful of simple but essential ingredients, each adding its own magic to the final broth. Fresh veggies bring brightness and color, while the combination of broths delivers a deep, layered flavor that makes this soup truly unforgettable.
- Chicken broth: Use low-sodium for better control of seasoning and a clean, mild base.
- Beef broth: Adds richness and depth to balance the lightness of the chicken broth.
- Water: Dilutes the broths slightly for clarity without losing flavor.
- Onion (half, sliced): Sweetens the broth gently as it simmers.
- Garlic (2 cloves, smashed): Imparts a warm, subtle aromatic note.
- Green onions (2, chopped): Separate white parts for simmering and green parts for garnish to add freshness.
- Carrot (1 small, thinly sliced): Adds a touch of sweetness and beautiful color.
- Mushrooms (4–5, thinly sliced): Shiitake or white button mushrooms give an umami boost and tender bite.
- Soy sauce (1 tablespoon): Enhances savory depth and seasoning.
- Salt: To taste, ensuring a perfectly balanced broth.
- Kombu (optional piece): A little dried kelp that elevates the umami factor, giving that authentic Japanese touch.
How to Make Japanese Clear Soup Recipe
Step 1: Build Your Broth
Start by combining the chicken broth, beef broth, and water in a large pot. This trio is the heart of the soup, creating layers of flavor that mingle beautifully. Toss in the onion slices, smashed garlic, white parts of the green onions, and thin carrot slices. If you decide to use kombu, add it now to infuse an irresistible umami essence straight from the sea. Bring everything to a gentle boil over medium heat, then lower the heat to let it simmer uncovered for 30 to 40 minutes. Keep an eye out for any foam on the surface and skim it off to maintain a crystal-clear broth that’s both tasty and inviting.
Step 2: Strain and Season
Once the flavors have fully developed, carefully strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve to remove all the solids. This step is what gives the soup its signature clarity and smooth texture. Return the clear broth to the pot and stir in the soy sauce, adjusting the salt amount according to your taste preferences. The soy sauce brings that savory depth without overpowering the delicate balance you’ve created.
Step 3: Add Mushrooms and Finish Simmering
Now, gently add the thinly sliced mushrooms to the broth and simmer for another 5 minutes. This brief cooking time allows the mushrooms to soften without losing their structure, offering a tender contrast that’s perfect in every bite.
Step 4: Serve with Fresh Green Onion
Ladle the piping hot Japanese Clear Soup Recipe into bowls and top each serving with the fresh green parts of the chopped green onions. This final garnish adds a burst of vibrant color and a mild onion flavor that brightens the soup beautifully.
How to Serve Japanese Clear Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Besides the classic green onion topping, you can elevate the soup with a few delicate touches. A small sprig of fresh mitsuba or a thin slice of yuzu peel can bring an aromatic freshness. For a bit of texture contrast, tiny cubes of soft tofu or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds work wonderfully as well.
Side Dishes
This clear soup pairs exceptionally well with traditional Japanese sides like steamed rice, pickled vegetables, or a simple cucumber sunomono. It’s also a fantastic prelude to a sushi platter or grilled fish, offering a light but flavor-packed starter that primes the palate for more.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving your Japanese Clear Soup Recipe in elegant bowls with a delicate ceramic spoon for an authentic experience. For casual occasions, pretty glass mugs allow the stunning clarity and colors of the vegetables to shine through. A floating edible flower can also add a unique, Instagram-worthy touch without overwhelming the simplicity of the soup.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can refrigerate any leftover broth in an airtight container for up to three days. Just make sure to cool it completely before sealing to keep the flavors fresh and vibrant.
Freezing
This soup freezes well if you want to prepare it in advance. Pour the cooled broth into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. Freeze for up to two months. For best texture, it’s ideal to add fresh mushrooms and garnishes after thawing rather than freezing them directly in the soup.
Reheating
Slowly reheat the soup on the stove over low heat to preserve the delicate flavors. Avoid boiling once it’s reheated, as it can dull the clarity and freshness. Add fresh green onions or toppings just before serving again.
FAQs
Can I make this Japanese Clear Soup Recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply swap out the chicken and beef broths for a high-quality vegetable broth, and omit the kombu if you want to keep it purely plant-based. You can also enhance umami by adding dried shiitake mushrooms to the broth while simmering.
What type of mushrooms work best in this soup?
Shiitake mushrooms are traditional and add a wonderful earthy flavor, but white button mushrooms are a great mild alternative that’s widely available. Both types maintain a tender bite after simmering.
Is there a way to deepen the flavor without extra broth?
Yes! Adding a small piece of kombu during simmering significantly boosts umami without overpowering the soup. A splash of mirin or a pinch of dashi powder can also enhance the complexity gently.
Can I prepare the broth in advance?
You can definitely prepare the broth base a day ahead. Store it refrigerated and finish adding the mushrooms and final seasonings on the day you plan to serve. This helps keep your soup fresh and vibrant.
How do I keep the broth clear and not cloudy?
Skimming foam or impurities that rise to the surface during simmering is key to achieving a clear broth. Avoid stirring vigorously, and strain carefully through a fine-mesh sieve to remove solids before adding your final ingredients.
Final Thoughts
This Japanese Clear Soup Recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy a light, delightful bowl of soup that feels both healthful and satisfying. Its subtle flavors and elegant simplicity invite you to slow down and savor every sip. Whether you’re warming up on a chilly evening or impressing friends with a beautiful starter, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Go ahead, give it a try and bring a little taste of Japan to your home!
