Umami Burst Miso Soup

🕒 Prep: 5 min
🔥 Cook: 10 min
🍽 Serves: 4
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Looking for a comforting bowl of soup that packs a punch of flavor? This Umami Burst Miso Soup is your answer. With a blend of savory miso, earthy mushrooms, and a hint of spice, it's a delightful way to warm up your evening.

Ingredients for Umami Burst Miso Soup

White miso paste is the star of this dish, bringing its signature umami flavor while adding a touch of sweetness. Vegetable broth forms the base, providing a rich and savory backdrop. The shiitake mushrooms add depth with their earthy taste, and cubed firm tofu offers a nice texture and protein boost. Green onions bring a fresh, mild bite, while soy sauce enhances the savory notes. Grated ginger adds a subtle warmth, and sesame oil lends a nutty aroma. Nori squares add a touch of the sea, and chili flakes provide a gentle heat. Finally, mirin introduces a hint of sweetness that rounds off the flavors perfectly.

Tips & Tricks

  • For a more intense mushroom flavor, try soaking dried shiitake mushrooms and using the soaking liquid in place of some of the water.
  • If you like it spicier, increase the amount of chili flakes or try adding a dash of sriracha.
  • To ensure the miso paste dissolves smoothly, whisk it in a small bowl with a bit of warm broth before adding it to the pot.

Serving Suggestions

This miso soup pairs beautifully with a side of steamed edamame or a fresh cucumber salad. For a heartier meal, serve it with a bowl of rice or some crispy tempura vegetables.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use red miso instead of white miso?
Yes, but keep in mind that red miso has a stronger flavor, so you may want to use a bit less.
Is there a gluten-free option?
Absolutely! Just make sure to use gluten-free soy sauce and verify that your miso paste is gluten-free.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, but it's best enjoyed fresh. If making ahead, add the tofu and nori just before serving to maintain their texture.

Umami Burst Miso Soup Recipe Walkthrough

Start by grabbing a large pot and setting it over medium heat. Pour in the vegetable broth and water, letting them come to a gentle simmer. As you wait, take a moment to dice your shiitake mushrooms and cube the firm tofu. Once the broth simmers, toss in the mushrooms, tofu, and grated ginger. Let these simmer for about 5 minutes—enough time for the flavors to start mingling.

Next, stir in the white miso paste. It's a good idea to mix it separately with a bit of the warm broth first until it's smooth, then add it to the pot. Follow this with the soy sauce and sesame oil. Stir everything together until the miso dissolves completely.

Add the sliced green onions, nori squares, and chili flakes. Allow the soup to cook for an additional 3 minutes. This short time is enough to soften the nori and meld the flavors.

Finally, just before you’re ready to serve, stir in the mirin. This last step adds a subtle sweetness that beautifully complements the other flavors.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Packed with umami flavors, offering a rich and satisfying taste experience.
  • A great source of plant-based protein and nutrients.
  • Customizable with your favorite vegetables or proteins.

Ingredients

3 tbsp white miso paste
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup water
1/2 cup diced shiitake mushrooms
1/2 cup cubed firm tofu
1/4 cup sliced green onions
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tsp grated ginger
1 tsp sesame oil
1 sheet nori, cut into small squares
1/2 tsp chili flakes
1 tbsp mirin

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a large pot, combine vegetable broth and water and bring to a gentle simmer.
2. Add diced shiitake mushrooms, tofu, and grated ginger. Let simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Stir in white miso paste, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix until the miso paste is fully dissolved.
4. Add sliced green onions, nori squares, and chili flakes. Cook for an additional 3 minutes.
5. Stir in mirin just before serving for an added layer of sweetness.

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