Japan’s Most Delicious Meat-Based Soups You Should Try

Japan is renowned for its diverse and flavorful cuisine, and among its many offerings, meat-based soups hold a special place in the hearts of both locals and travelers. These hearty dishes reflect the rich culinary traditions of the country, utilizing fresh ingredients and time-honored cooking techniques. If you're looking to indulge in some comforting and savory meals, here are Japan’s most delicious meat-based soups you should try.

1. Tonkotsu Ramen
Tonkotsu ramen is a beloved dish originating from Fukuoka in Japan. Made with pork bones that are simmered for hours, it results in a rich and creamy broth. The umami flavor is enriched with toppings like chashu (braised pork belly), soft-boiled egg, green onions, and roasted nori. Each bowl is a warming embrace, perfect for any day.

2. Gyukotsu Ramen
For beef lovers, gyukotsu ramen is a must-try. This luxurious ramen features a beef bone broth that is simmered over a long period to extract maximum flavor. It usually includes tender slices of beef, mushrooms, bamboo shoots, and a hint of mustard for added zest. The unique taste makes it a standout in the ramen scene.

3. Nikujaga
Nikujaga, meaning “meat and potatoes,” is a traditional Japanese comfort food. This dish typically features sliced beef, potatoes, and onions simmered in a sweet-savory sauce made from soy sauce, sugar, and mirin. The result is a heartwarming soup that represents home-cooked Japanese meals, often served with rice.

4. Miso Chashu Ramen
A delightful twist on classic ramen, miso chashu ramen combines the heartiness of chashu pork with the deep flavor of miso soup. The broth is enriched with a blend of miso paste, creating a savory and slightly sweet profile. Topped with green onions, bean sprouts, and seaweed, every slurp offers satisfaction.

5. Shoyu Ramen
Shoyu ramen is one of the most traditional styles of ramen, characterized by its soy sauce-based broth. This soup allows the flavors of both chicken and pork to shine through, complemented with toppings such as menma (bamboo shoots), spring onions, and nori. It’s a classic choice for those seeking authentic Japanese flavor.

6. Beef Udon Soup
Udon, thick wheat noodles, are perfect in a steaming bowl of beef udon soup. The broth is often made from dashi (a Japanese stock), and the dish includes tender pieces of beef, green onions, and sometimes vegetables like shiitake mushrooms. It’s filling, yet light, making it a popular choice any time of year.

7. oden
Oden is a comforting winter dish featuring various ingredients simmered in a light dashi broth. Common components include beef tendon, sausages, daikon radish, and boiled eggs. The harmony of flavors in each bite makes oden a favorite amongst those looking to warm up on colder days.

8. Sukiyaki
Sukiyaki is a communal dish that combines thinly sliced beef, tofu, and vegetables cooked at the table in a sweet-savory sauce made of soy sauce, sugar, and mirin. While traditionally not a soup, the remaining broth is often served as a deliciously flavored soup that pairs excellently with rice.

9. Katsu Don Soup
A twist on the beloved katsu don, this dish includes a breaded and fried pork cutlet served atop rice, all drenched in a savory broth that brings the flavors together. The simplicity of this dish transcends itself into comfort food that many enjoy as a quick meal.

10. Chanko Nabe
This hearty stew, associated with sumo wrestlers, is packed with protein and nutrients, primarily featuring chicken, beef, and a variety of vegetables. Chanko nabe is versatile and can be tailored with personal favorite ingredients, making it a satisfying option for group dining.

Japanese meat-based soups epitomize comfort and tradition. Each bowl offers a unique taste of Japan’s culinary heritage, balancing rich flavors with fresh ingredients. No matter where your travels take you, these delectable soups are a must-try to appreciate the heart of Japanese cuisine.