Japanese Onion Soup is a delicate, aromatic broth that offers a perfect balance of subtle flavors and deep warmth. Often enjoyed as an appetizer, this comforting soup is a soothing introduction to Japanese cuisine. The clear, light broth swirls with the gentle essence of onions, creating a harmonious depth that is both savory and refreshing. With each sip, the richness of the broth blends seamlessly with the soft, translucent texture of the onions, making it a delightful prelude to any meal. It’s a simple yet elegant dish, inviting the diner into the calming world of Japanese culinary traditions, where even the most basic ingredients are elevated to artful perfection.
Japanese Onion Soup
Japanese Onion Soup is a light and flavorful broth-based dish that showcases the simplicity and elegance of Japanese cuisine. Known for its delicate balance of savory and subtle flavors, the soup features tender onions immersed in a clear, aromatic broth.
Ingredients
- ½ stalk celery, chopped
- 1 small onion, chopped
- ½ carrot, chopped
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger root
- ¼ teaspoon minced fresh garlic
- 2 tablespoons chicken stock
- 3 teaspoons beef bouillon granules
- 1 cup chopped fresh shiitake mushrooms
- 2 quarts water
- 1 cup baby portobello mushrooms, sliced
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh chives
Instructions
- In a large saucepan or stockpot, combine the celery, onion, carrot, ginger, garlic, and some of the mushrooms. Pour in the chicken stock, beef bouillon, and water. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, cover the pot, reduce the heat to medium, and let it simmer for 45 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Transfer the remaining mushrooms into a separate pot. Once the soup has finished simmering, place a strainer over the pot with the mushrooms. Carefully pour the cooked soup through the strainer into the mushroom pot, discarding the strained solids. This process ensures a smooth, flavorful broth infused with the mushrooms.
- Ladle the mushroom-infused broth into small porcelain bowls and garnish with freshly chopped chives. For an added touch of elegance, serve the soup with Asian soup spoons, enhancing the experience of this delicate dish.
