Sesame Miso Soup

🕒 Prep: 5 min
🔥 Cook: 10 min
🍽 Serves: 8

If you're looking for a comforting, umami-rich soup that's both nourishing and easy to make, sesame miso soup is your answer. This recipe combines the savory depth of miso with the nutty aroma of sesame oil and a touch of ginger for warmth. Perfect for a chilly day or when you need a quick, satisfying meal.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare, ready in under 20 minutes.
  • Uses simple ingredients that pack a punch of flavor.
  • Vegan-friendly and easily customizable.
  • Light yet satisfying, ideal for any meal of the day.

Ingredients

4 cups water
1/3 cup white miso paste
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1/4 cup diced tofu
1/4 cup sliced shiitake mushrooms
2 tablespoons sliced green onions
1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
1 sheet nori, cut into small pieces
1/2 teaspoon grated ginger

Step-by-step Instructions

Start by pouring 4 cups of water into a medium pot. Set it over medium heat and patiently wait for it to reach a simmer. While it's heating up, take a moment to prep your other ingredients if you haven't already.

Once the water is simmering, stir in the white miso paste and soy sauce. Make sure they dissolve completely, as this is what will give your broth its rich, savory base.

Next, add the sesame oil and gently mix it into the broth. The aroma will start to fill your kitchen, setting the stage for what's to come.

Now, toss in the diced tofu and sliced shiitake mushrooms. Let them simmer together for about 5 minutes. This allows the mushrooms to soften and the tofu to absorb all the lovely flavors.

After that, add the sliced green onions and let the soup cook for another 2 minutes. This short cooking time keeps them crisp and fresh.

Just before removing the soup from the heat, sprinkle in the toasted sesame seeds and nori pieces. Stir in the grated ginger for that final touch of warmth and spice.

Serve the soup hot and feel free to garnish with more green onions if you like a little extra color and flavor.

Tips & Tricks

  • If your miso paste is clumping, use a small whisk or the back of a spoon to help it dissolve.
  • Try not to boil the soup once the miso paste is added, as high heat can diminish its flavor.
  • For an extra depth of flavor, use a dash of fish sauce if you're not strictly vegan.

Serving Suggestions

This sesame miso soup pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed rice or a light salad. If you want to make it more substantial, serve it alongside some grilled vegetables or a piece of crusty bread to soak up the broth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use another type of mushroom?
Absolutely! Button mushrooms or oyster mushrooms work well if shiitake isn’t available.
What can I substitute for tofu?
Feel free to use tempeh or leave it out completely if you prefer a lighter soup.
How long does this soup keep?
This soup is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to avoid changing the texture of the tofu.

Ingredients Explained

Water is the base of our soup, acting as a canvas for all the flavors to meld together. White miso paste provides the signature umami taste, offering a depth that’s both savory and slightly sweet. Soy sauce enhances the umami and adds a bit of saltiness. Sesame oil infuses the soup with a rich, nutty aroma that’s simply irresistible.

Diced tofu adds protein and texture, making the soup more filling. Sliced shiitake mushrooms bring in an earthy flavor that complements the miso beautifully. Green onions offer a fresh, mild oniony kick, balancing the rich elements in the soup. Toasted sesame seeds add a crunchy finish, while nori contributes a subtle sea-like flavor. Finally, grated ginger introduces a gentle warmth and spice.

Simplified Instructions

1. In a medium pot, bring 4 cups of water to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Stir in white miso paste and soy sauce until fully dissolved.
3. Add sesame oil and gently mix.
4. Incorporate diced tofu and sliced shiitake mushrooms, allowing them to simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Toss in sliced green onions and continue to cook for another 2 minutes.
6. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and nori pieces into the soup.
7. Stir in grated ginger and remove from heat.
8. Serve hot, garnished with additional green onions if desired.

Ratings and Comments

Thank you for your rating!