How to Make Japanese Fish Soup with Soy Sauce

Japanese fish soup, known for its delicate flavors and health benefits, is a dish that can be wonderfully enhanced with the umami of soy sauce. This delicious soup can be made with a variety of fresh fish and vegetables, making it a vibrant and nutritious meal. Follow these steps to create a satisfying Japanese fish soup with soy sauce.

Ingredients

  • 300g of fresh white fish fillets (such as cod or snapper)
  • 4 cups dashi stock (or water with kombu)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon mirin (optional)
  • 1 cup of sliced mushrooms (shiitake or enoki work well)
  • 1 cup of chopped green vegetables (like bok choy or spinach)
  • 1 small piece of ginger, sliced
  • Sliced green onions for garnish
  • Sesame oil for flavor (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Stock

Begin by heating the dashi stock in a large pot over medium heat. If you’re using water with kombu, allow the kombu to steep for about 10 minutes before removing it from the pot. This will enhance the flavor of the broth significantly.

Step 2: Add Aromatics

Once the stock is warm, add the sliced ginger. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to infuse the flavors into the broth.

Step 3: Incorporate the Fish and Vegetables

Carefully add the fish fillets to the pot. Reduce the heat to medium-low to avoid overcooking the fish. Allow the fish to simmer for about 5-7 minutes until it is just cooked through.

Next, add the sliced mushrooms and chopped green vegetables. Let these ingredients cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until they are tender.

Step 4: Season the Soup

To finish the soup, stir in the soy sauce and mirin (if using). Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add more soy sauce for a saltier taste or more mirin for sweetness.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Once everything is well combined and heated through, remove the pot from the heat. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with sliced green onions. Drizzle a few drops of sesame oil on top for added richness, if desired.

Tips for the Perfect Japanese Fish Soup

  • For extra depth of flavor, try adding a splash of sake to the broth.
  • You can substitute other seafood like shrimp or scallops for a different twist.
  • Season with additional herbs, such as cilantro or shiso, for added freshness.

Enjoy your homemade Japanese fish soup with soy sauce as a warming meal on its own or as a complement to sushi or rice dishes!