Quick Miso Soup

Quick Miso Soup

Miso soup is a staple in Japanese cuisine, known for its savory, umami-packed flavor that warms you from the inside out. It’s simple to make, yet deeply comforting and nourishing. The combination of miso paste, tofu, and seaweed provides a deliciously balanced soup that’s perfect as a starter or a light meal.

This quick miso soup recipe takes only 15 minutes to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you need something satisfying in a hurry. Whether you’re a miso soup enthusiast or trying it for the first time, this recipe will become a go-to in your kitchen.

Ingredients:

4 cups water or vegetable broth

2 tablespoons white miso paste (or more to taste)

1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional, for extra flavor)

1/2 teaspoon sesame oil (optional, for added depth)

1 block (14 oz) firm tofu, cubed

1/4 cup dried wakame seaweed (or 1/2 cup fresh seaweed)

2-3 green onions, thinly sliced

1/2 teaspoon grated ginger (optional, for a fresh kick)

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

1 teaspoon rice vinegar (optional, for tang)

1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)

How to Make Quick Miso Soup:

Prepare the Broth:

In a medium-sized pot, bring 4 cups of water or vegetable broth to a simmer over medium heat. If you’re using water, you can add a splash of soy sauce for more depth, but it’s optional.

Add Miso Paste:

In a small bowl, scoop out the miso paste and add a couple of tablespoons of hot water from the pot. Stir until the miso paste dissolves into a smooth slurry. This step helps to evenly distribute the miso into the soup. Then, add the miso mixture back into the pot with the simmering broth, stirring well to combine.

Add Flavor Enhancers:

Stir in the sesame oil, soy sauce (if using), grated ginger, and garlic powder. These ingredients will enhance the flavor profile of the soup, giving it a more aromatic and balanced taste. Continue to simmer the broth for about 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Add Tofu and Seaweed:

Gently add the cubed tofu and dried wakame seaweed to the pot. If you’re using dried wakame, it will expand as it rehydrates, so a small amount goes a long way. Stir the soup gently to combine. Let the soup simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the tofu to warm through and the seaweed to soften.

Finish the Soup:

Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning. If you prefer a saltier flavor, you can add a bit more soy sauce or miso paste. For a tangier twist, add a splash of rice vinegar. If you like a bit of spice, sprinkle in some chili flakes to taste.

Serve:

Ladle the miso soup into bowls. Garnish with sliced green onions and, if desired, a few more chili flakes for a little heat. Serve immediately, and enjoy!

Chef’s Note:

Miso Paste Varieties: There are different types of miso paste available, including white (shiro), yellow, and red (aka) miso. White miso is milder and sweeter, while red miso is stronger and saltier. You can adjust the type of miso paste based on your preference for a lighter or richer flavor.

Seaweed Variations: Wakame is the traditional seaweed used in miso soup, but you can also experiment with other seaweed types like kombu or nori. If you’re using fresh seaweed, just add it to the soup in the last few minutes of cooking.

Adding Vegetables: For added texture and nutrition, feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bok choy. Just chop them into small pieces and add them to the soup along with the tofu and seaweed.

Spice it Up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, try adding a splash of sriracha or chili oil, or simply use more chili flakes.

Vegan Version: This recipe is already vegan, but make sure you use a plant-based broth to keep it fully plant-based. You can also use silken tofu for a creamier texture.

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 4 servings):

Calories: 100

Protein: 8g

Carbohydrates: 6g

Fat: 6g

Fiber: 2g

Sugar: 1g

Sodium: 750mg (may vary depending on the miso paste and soy sauce used)

This Quick Miso Soup is a great source of plant-based protein from the tofu and is low in calories, making it an excellent choice for a light meal or appetizer.

The miso paste provides beneficial probiotics for gut health, while the seaweed is rich in vitamins and minerals.

This soup is naturally gluten-free (if you use tamari instead of soy sauce), dairy-free, and can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences.

Whether you’re looking for something quick and easy or craving a warming, nourishing dish, this miso soup is a perfect solution. Enjoy the depth of flavor and comforting warmth in every spoonful!