Japanese Clear Soup

Japanese clear soup became a comforting go-to for me after a long weekend of rich foods when I craved something light and cleansing and I remember making it for the first time with just a few ingredients and being amazed by how deeply flavorful it turned out despite its simplicity and clarity.

Now I make it often when I want a gentle reset or a light start to a meal and it always brings that calming sense of balance with its clean broth tofu and seaweed floating like little treasures in the bowl and I’m happy to walk you through my favorite version that’s easy yet elegant.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!

• Dashi stock – The base of the soup with subtle umami and clarity
• Soy sauce – Adds gentle saltiness and depth without overpowering the broth
• Mirin – Balances the savory notes with a hint of sweetness
• Salt – Used to adjust the flavor with precision
• Tofu – Soft cubes that gently absorb the broth
• Mushrooms – Add earthiness and texture to the light soup
• Wakame seaweed – Hydrated from dried form for a touch of ocean flavor
• Green onions – Brightens the bowl with freshness and slight bite

Tools You’ll Need

• Medium pot – To gently simmer the broth and ingredients
• Ladle – For carefully serving the delicate soup
• Cutting board and knife – For prepping mushrooms tofu and garnishes
• Strainer (optional) – To clarify dashi if using homemade
• Measuring spoons – For precise seasoning adjustments
• Soup bowls – Simple and deep bowls to hold the elegant ingredients

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the dashi

I start by making dashi either from scratch or using instant dashi granules and I bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat for a clean and fragrant base.

Step 2: Season the broth

To the simmering dashi I add soy sauce, mirin, and a small pinch of salt then I taste and adjust until the flavor is savory yet light and not too salty.

Step 3: Add mushrooms

I slice the mushrooms and add them to the broth letting them simmer for a few minutes until they’re tender and infused with the broth’s flavor.

Step 4: Add tofu and wakame

I gently place the tofu cubes and rehydrated wakame into the soup and simmer for just 2–3 more minutes to warm everything through without boiling.

Step 5: Garnish and serve

Right before serving I sprinkle in the chopped green onions and then ladle the soup into warm bowls making sure every scoop has a little of everything.

Tips

I prefer using silken or medium-firm tofu for the best texture in broth

Don’t let the soup boil after adding tofu – it can break apart or make the broth cloudy

You can use shiitake, enoki, or button mushrooms depending on what’s available

Homemade dashi gives the purest flavor but instant works beautifully for quick meals

Keep the seasoning light – this soup is all about clean and balanced flavor

Ways to Serve

Serve as a starter to sushi or bento meals for a light opening

Pair with steamed rice and pickled vegetables for a gentle lunch

Sip alongside grilled fish or chicken for balance

Enjoy as a cleansing dish between courses in a multi-course meal

Serve warm in small cups during chilly weather for a soothing touch

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Japanese clear soup made of?

Japanese clear soup is made from a light dashi broth flavored with soy sauce and mirin and typically includes tofu, mushrooms, seaweed, and green onions.

Is this the same as miso soup?

No, Japanese clear soup does not contain miso paste and has a lighter, more transparent broth compared to the richer cloudy base of miso soup.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes! Just use kombu dashi made from kelp instead of bonito-based dashi and the rest of the ingredients are naturally plant-based.

How long does it keep?

It’s best enjoyed fresh but you can refrigerate the broth and solids separately for up to 2 days and gently reheat before serving.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you try this Japanese clear soup recipe! It’s such a peaceful dish that’s easy to make and always brings warmth and clarity to any meal. Let me know if you enjoy it or add your own twist and don’t forget to save it for your next reset meal or light dinner moment.

Happy Cooking!

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