If you’ve ever dined at a hibachi restaurant and wondered how to recreate that delicate, sparkly broth that starts the meal, Japanese Clear Soup is about to become your new staple. This light yet flavorful soup is a celebration of simplicity: clean, subtle chicken or veggie broth, a whisper of ginger and garlic, tender mushrooms, and the gentle pop of fresh green onions. Best of all, Japanese Clear Soup is quick to make, nourishing, and pairs effortlessly with almost anything you’re serving.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gather these easy-to-find ingredients and you’ll see how they each play a star role. With thoughtful additions—from aromatic ginger to umami-packed soy sauce—every ingredient in Japanese Clear Soup brings something special to the table.
- Low-sodium chicken broth: This forms the gently savory backbone of the soup, keeping the base clear and full of flavor without overpowering saltiness.
- Water: Helps mellow the broth and ensures that the finished soup feels light and delicate on the palate.
- Soy sauce: A spoonful adds a hint of umami and a subtle depth that’s essential in Japanese Clear Soup.
- Mirin: This sweet rice wine softens the overall flavor and gives the broth a touch of natural sweetness.
- Garlic clove (smashed): One clove is plenty—infusing the broth with a gentle warmth rather than an overt garlicky note.
- Fresh ginger (sliced): Freshness is key here; ginger gives the soup vibrancy and gentle heat.
- Green onions (sliced): These double as a classic flavor and a fresh, colorful garnish just before serving.
- Mushrooms (shiitake or button, thinly sliced): Mushrooms absorb the seasoned broth while lending their own earthy aroma and subtle chew.
- Soft tofu (cubed, optional): For extra body and protein, tofu makes a wonderful (and traditional) addition without weighing the soup down.
- Fresh parsley or extra green onion for garnish: Adds color and a crisp burst of flavor to finish the dish.
How to Make Japanese Clear Soup
Step 1: Create the Flavorful Broth
Start by combining the low-sodium chicken broth, water, soy sauce, mirin, smashed garlic, and sliced ginger in a medium saucepan. Bring the mixture up to a gentle boil over medium heat. As the pan warms, you’ll notice both the aroma and color begin to change—this is where the magic happens! The simmering process draws out every last bit of flavor from the aromatics.
Step 2: Simmer and Infuse
Once your soup comes to a gentle boil, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 to 15 minutes. This gives the ginger and garlic time to fully infuse the broth, layering in that classic Japanese Clear Soup flavor that’s simultaneously subtle yet deeply comforting.
Step 3: Strain (Optional) for a Perfectly Clear Soup
If you like your soup sparkling clear, you can strain out the garlic and ginger. Just pour through a fine-mesh sieve or a cheesecloth-lined colander for that crystal-clear look you’ll find at restaurants. If you love an extra-gingery kick, a few tiny slivers left behind are perfectly fine!
Step 4: Add Mushrooms and Tofu
With your aromatic base ready, add the thinly sliced mushrooms and cubed soft tofu (if using). Let them simmer gently for just 3 to 4 minutes. That’s all it takes for the mushrooms to become tender and the tofu to warm through—no need to overcook, as the simple flavors shine when left fresh.
Step 5: Stir in Green Onions and Serve
Finally, stir in the sliced green onions right at the end for a burst of color and freshness. Ladle the Japanese Clear Soup into bowls and garnish with extra green onions or a scatter of fresh parsley for the ultimate finishing touch. Serve hot and enjoy every soothing spoonful!
How to Serve Japanese Clear Soup
Garnishes
This soup loves a beautiful, simple garnish. Sprinkle with finely sliced green onions, or add a little fresh parsley right before serving. If you want to go the extra mile, drop in a paper-thin mushroom slice or a tiny cube of tofu to float on top. That final touch can turn Japanese Clear Soup into an elegant first course.
Side Dishes
Japanese Clear Soup pairs perfectly with sushi rolls, sashimi, tempura, or even a bowl of steamed rice. It’s a classic opener to a Japanese meal, but also fits wonderfully alongside a weeknight stir fry or a simple salad for lunch. The lightness of the broth makes it a great way to start any meal without overpowering the flavors to come.
Creative Ways to Present
For a little menu magic, try serving Japanese Clear Soup in small cups or colorful miso bowls with lids. You can also prepare it ahead and serve in clear glass mugs—showing off those gently floating mushrooms and bright green onions. Add a tiny blossom-shaped carrot or a sliver of red pepper as a garnish to make each bowl extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover Japanese Clear Soup, simply let it cool to room temperature, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It keeps its delicate flavor beautifully and makes a comforting snack or easy lunch the next day.
Freezing
The broth itself freezes very well! Just be sure to remove any tofu before freezing, as the texture changes dramatically once thawed. Store liquid portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, pour the soup gently into a pot and warm over medium-low heat until steaming hot but not boiling. This keeps the flavors balanced and the tofu soft. If you’ve frozen the broth, reheat first, then add fresh tofu and mushrooms for the best texture.
FAQs
Is there a vegetarian version of Japanese Clear Soup?
Absolutely! Substitute vegetable broth for the chicken broth to keep the soup fully vegetarian. Choose a high-quality, clear veggie broth for the cleanest flavor, and all the other steps stay exactly the same.
Can I add other vegetables or proteins?
Definitely. While the classic is minimal, you can add julienned carrots, thinly sliced bok choy, or a handful of spinach. For protein, add cooked shrimp, shredded chicken, or even a poached egg to transform Japanese Clear Soup into a heartier meal.
Is Japanese Clear Soup the same as miso soup?
No, they’re different! Miso soup is made with miso paste and is creamy and opaque, while Japanese Clear Soup is all about clarity—a delicate broth flavored with aromatics and mushrooms, with no miso at all.
How can I make the soup gluten-free?
It’s very easy! Just swap out regular soy sauce for tamari, which is usually gluten-free. Do check the label to be certain, and you’ll have a lovely gluten-free Japanese Clear Soup in minutes.
Can I prepare this soup ahead of time for a dinner party?
Yes! You can make the broth up to two days in advance; just add mushrooms and tofu right before serving. It’s a fantastic make-ahead recipe that actually improves in flavor after a brief rest in the fridge.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’ll treat yourself (and maybe a lucky guest or two) to a piping hot bowl of Japanese Clear Soup very soon. It’s one of those quietly impressive dishes that leaves everyone feeling cozy, refreshed, and a little bit spoiled. Give it a try and taste how just a handful of simple ingredients can make something magical!
Print
Japanese Clear Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Japanese
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A light and flavorful Japanese Clear Soup, perfect as a starter or accompaniment to sushi or tempura. This broth-based soup is delicately seasoned with soy sauce and mirin, featuring mushrooms, tofu, and green onions for a satisfying bowl.
Ingredients
Broth:
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon mirin
- 1 garlic clove (smashed)
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger (sliced)
Additions:
- 2 green onions (sliced)
- ½ cup thinly sliced mushrooms (shiitake or button)
- ½ block soft tofu (cubed, optional)
- Fresh parsley or additional green onion for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare Broth: In a medium saucepan, combine chicken broth, water, soy sauce, mirin, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a gentle boil, then simmer for 10–15 minutes.
- Add Ingredients: Strain out garlic and ginger if desired. Add mushrooms and tofu, simmer for 3–4 minutes until tender. Stir in green onions.
- Serve: Garnish with parsley or extra green onion. Serve hot.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Traditionally served as a starter in Japanese meals.
- Pairs well with sushi or tempura.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 45
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 410mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
