How to Make Miso Soup
A Simple Recipe with Big Health Benefits There’s something comforting and nourishing about a warm bowl of miso soup. Whether you’ve had it at your favorite Japanese restaurant or are just discovering it for the first time, miso soup is more than just a tasty starter—it’s a powerhouse of nutrition. In this post, I’ll walk you through how to make a basic miso soup at home and explore some of the health benefits that make it worth adding to your weekly routine.
What Is Miso Soup?
Miso soup is a traditional Japanese dish made primarily from miso paste, dashi (a light fish or seaweed broth), tofu, and seaweed. It’s a staple in Japanese cuisine and often served as part of a meal to aid digestion and balance flavors.
Simple Miso Soup Recipe Ingredients:
• 4 cups dashi (you can use instant dashi granules or make it from kombu and bonito flakes)
• 2–3 tablespoons miso paste (white, yellow, or red depending on your preference) • 1/2 cup cubed tofu (silken or firm)
• 1 tablespoon dried wakame seaweed
• 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
Instructions:
1. Make the dashi: If you’re using instant dashi, dissolve the granules in hot water according to the package instructions. If you’re making it from scratch, simmer a piece of kombu in water, remove it before it boils, then add bonito flakes and strain after a few minutes.
2. Hydrate the seaweed: Soak the dried wakame in a small bowl of water for 5 minutes. It will expand quite a bit.
3. Warm the soup base: In a pot, bring your dashi to a gentle simmer. Add tofu and rehydrated wakame.
4. Dissolve the miso: Turn the heat to low. Spoon the miso paste into a ladle or small strainer, dip it into the hot broth, and stir until it dissolves. Avoid boiling the soup after adding miso, as high heat can destroy some of its beneficial enzymes and alter the flavor.
5. Finish and serve: Once the miso is fully incorporated, add green onions, stir, and serve immediately.
Shinjyo Shiro Miso - Light Miso Soup Paste from Japan - Ideal for Cooking Miso Soup
Health Benefits of Miso Soup
1. Probiotic-Rich: Miso is fermented, meaning it’s packed with beneficial bacteria (probiotics) that can support gut health, aid digestion, and boost immunity.
2. High in Antioxidants: Miso contains antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the body.
3. Good Source of Protein: The combination of tofu and miso provides a plant-based protein boost, which is especially great for vegetarians and vegans.
4. Low in Calories: A bowl of miso soup is typically low in calories but still satisfying, making it a great option for those watching their weight.
5. May Support Heart Health: Studies suggest that fermented soy products like miso can contribute to lower blood pressure and improved cholesterol levels.
MARUTOMO - Seasoning Powder for Soups
MARUTOMO – Seasoning Powder for Soups (Dashi no moto) Asian seasoning mix with lots of aroma and flavour, ideal for seasoning soups
A Few Tips • Try different miso pastes:
White miso is milder and sweeter, while red miso is more intense and salty. Experiment to find your favorite flavor. • Customize your soup: Add mushrooms, spinach, carrots, or noodles to turn this simple soup into a more filling meal. • Watch the sodium: Miso is salty by nature, so if you’re watching your sodium intake, choose low-sodium miso or use smaller amounts.
Miso soup is one of those rare foods that’s both delicious and deeply nourishing. It’s easy to prepare, endlessly customizable, and loaded with health benefits. Whether as a light appetizer or a soothing snack, this humble soup deserves a spot in your kitchen rotation.
Mini Rice Cooker,
4 Multi cooker Functions
4 Multi cooker Functions
