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Japanese Clear Soup Recipe

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4 from 3 reviews

A traditional Japanese Clear Soup featuring a flavorful broth made from simmered vegetables, chicken, and beef broths. This light and soothing soup is a Hibachi restaurant favorite, perfect as a healthy starter or a comforting meal.

Ingredients

Broth and Oils

  • 2 teaspoons sesame oil (or peanut oil)
  • 8 cups chicken broth
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 4 cups water

Vegetables and Seasonings

  • 1 large sweet onion, peeled and cut into wedges
  • 6 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed
  • 2 large carrots, cut into chunks
  • 2 inch piece fresh ginger, sliced
  • 4 whole scallions, chopped
  • 10 button mushrooms, sliced thin
  • Salt to taste

Instructions

  1. Sear the Vegetables: Place a large 8-quart stock pot over medium-high heat. Add the sesame or peanut oil. Add the onion wedges, smashed garlic cloves, carrot chunks, and sliced ginger to the pot. Sear the vegetables on all sides to caramelize them, being careful not to burn the garlic. This step builds depth of flavor in the broth.
  2. Add Liquids and Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth, beef broth, and water. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to maintain a low boil. Let the broth simmer uncovered for at least one hour to fully develop flavors.
  3. Remove Vegetables and Season: Use a skimmer or slotted spoon to remove the vegetables from the broth. Taste the broth, then season with salt as desired.
  4. Serve: Ladle the hot clear broth into soup bowls. Sprinkle with chopped scallions and thinly sliced button mushrooms on top for texture and freshness. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • This clear soup is naturally gluten-free if you use gluten-free broth brands.
  • Substitute vegetable broth to make it vegetarian, but original recipe uses chicken and beef broth.
  • Searing the vegetables is key to releasing their natural sweetness and deeper flavor in the broth.
  • For a spicier version, add a small piece of dried chili during simmering.
  • To keep broth clear, avoid stirring once simmering starts and skim off any foam.