A Beginner’s Guide to Japanese Soup Recipes

Japanese cuisine is rich and diverse, with soups playing a central role in many meals. These flavorful dishes are not only comforting but also packed with nutrients. If you're new to cooking Japanese food, this beginner’s guide to Japanese soup recipes will help you explore some classic options.

1. Miso Soup

Miso soup is a staple in Japanese households and a perfect starting point for any beginner. This simple yet flavorful soup typically consists of dashi (a stock made from seaweed and bonito flakes) and miso paste. You can customize it with various ingredients such as tofu, seaweed, and green onions.

Basic Miso Soup Recipe:

  • 4 cups dashi broth
  • 3 tablespoons miso paste
  • 1 cup cubed tofu
  • 1 cup chopped green onions
  • 1/2 cup seaweed (wakame)

In a pot, bring the dashi to a simmer. Add the tofu and seaweed, cooking until heated through. Lower the heat, and dissolve the miso paste in a small amount of dashi before adding it to the pot. Finish with chopped green onions for garnish.

2. Tonjiru (Pork Miso Soup)

Tonjiru is a heartier soup that introduces pork and vegetables into the traditional miso base. It’s a comforting dish, perfect for colder days.

Basic Tonjiru Recipe:

  • 200g sliced pork belly
  • 4 cups dashi broth
  • 3 tablespoons miso paste
  • 1 carrot, sliced
  • 1 potato, diced
  • 1/2 daikon radish, sliced
  • 1 cup chopped green onions

In a pot, sauté the pork until it's browned. Add the carrots, potatoes, and daikon, sautéing for a few more minutes. Pour in the dashi, bring it to a boil, and simmer until the vegetables are tender. Stir in the miso paste and finish with green onions.

3. Shoyu Ramen Soup

Ramen is a beloved dish worldwide, and shoyu (soy sauce) ramen is one of the most popular varieties in Japan. With its savory broth, noodles, and toppings, shoyu ramen is a must-try for any beginner cook.

Basic Shoyu Ramen Recipe:

  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 servings of ramen noodles
  • 1 green onion, sliced
  • 1 soft-boiled egg
  • 1 sheet of nori (seaweed)

In a pot, combine chicken broth and soy sauce, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions and drain. Divide the noodles between bowls and pour the broth over them. Top with green onions, a soft-boiled egg, and nori.

4. Soba Noodle Soup

Soba noodles, made from buckwheat flour, add a unique flavor and texture to soups. This versatile noodle can be served in a warm broth or cold with dipping sauce.

Basic Soba Noodle Soup Recipe:

  • 4 cups dashi or vegetable broth
  • 2 servings of soba noodles
  • 1 cup sliced mushrooms
  • 1 cup bok choy or spinach
  • 1 green onion, sliced

Cook the soba noodles as per package directions. In another pot, heat the dashi or vegetable broth and add the mushrooms and bok choy, cooking until tender. Add the soba to the broth and serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions.

5. Udon Soup

Udon soup is another comforting dish that features thick wheat noodles. The chewy texture of udon pairs beautifully with a light broth, making it a favorite in Japanese cuisine.

Basic Udon Soup Recipe:

  • 4 cups dashi broth
  • 2 servings