Slurping sounds echoed in the warm, bustling izakaya, where steaming dishes full of vibrant colors and enticing aromas danced in the air. That’s where I first fell in love with Japanese Clear Soup. This delightful broth, crafted from harmonizing chicken and beef, brings a comforting lightness to any meal. Perfect as a starter or even a light lunch, the simplicity of this easy recipe also makes it accessible for cooks of all skill levels. With just 120 calories per serving, it’s not only healthy but also a fantastic way to invigorate your dining experience. Curious about how to create this cozy dish that transports you straight to Japan? Let’s dive into the details together!

Why Is Japanese Clear Soup So Special?

Warmth, this delightful dish is like a comforting hug in a bowl! As you indulge in this savory broth, you’ll discover how the balance of chicken and beef broths creates a uniquely rich flavor, unlike any other. Versatile enough for different dietary preferences, this recipe can easily be tailored to be vegetarian-friendly. Plus, it’s a time-saver—ready in just under an hour! And with only 120 calories per serving, it’s a guilt-free addition to your meals. Whether you’re enjoying it as a starter or a light lunch, this soup is sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more!

Japanese Clear Soup Ingredients

• Discover the essentials for creating this delightful broth.

For the Broth

Chicken Broth – Provides a light, golden, protein-rich foundation; substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
Beef Broth – Adds robust umami flavor and depth; for a lighter taste, use additional chicken broth.

For the Vegetables

Onion – Introduces natural sweetness and earthiness; leeks can be used for a milder taste.
Carrot – Brightens the soup visually and adds a pop of sweetness; substitute with parsnip for a different sweetness profile.
Celery – Adds fresh, herbal notes that complement other vegetables; no substitutions necessary for intended flavor.
Garlic – Contributes a warm and pungent depth; use less if sensitive to garlic.
Green Onions – Offers a crisp texture and fresh flavor; can be substituted with chives.
Mushrooms (optional) – Adds a woodsy depth and additional texture; tofu can be used for a vegetarian alternative.

For Seasoning

Soy Sauce – Delivers umami richness; low-sodium versions available for reduced salt intake.
Sesame Oil – Adds a nutty aroma and rounding finish; substitute with olive oil for a different flavor but will lose traditional taste.
Sea Salt – Balances and enhances all flavors; adjust to taste.
Black Pepper – Introduces a subtle heat; use freshly ground for the best flavor.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Japanese Clear Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Broth Mixture
In a large pot, combine the chicken broth and beef broth with chopped onion, diced carrot, sliced celery, and minced garlic. Stir these ingredients together over medium-high heat until the mixture begins to meld, about 5 minutes. You’ll want to see gentle bubbles forming on the surface, signaling it’s time to bring everything to a boil.

Step 2: Bring to a Boil
Once your broth mixture is bubbling, keep a close eye to prevent spills and let it boil vigorously for about 3 minutes. This will help extract the flavors from your aromatics. After this time, you’ll notice the broth’s surface becoming lively with small bubbles, indicating it’s ready for the next step.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup
Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer gently for 30 minutes. This slow cooking allows the flavors to combine beautifully, creating a light yet savory Japanese Clear Soup. You’ll notice a fragrant aroma filling your kitchen, indicating that the broth is developing its character.

Step 4: Strain the Broth
After simmering, carefully strain the soup through a fine mesh sieve into a clean pot. This step is crucial to achieve that clear broth by removing all solid bits of vegetables and garlic. You’ll be left with a shimmering, golden liquid that represents the essence of your Japanese Clear Soup.

Step 5: Season the Broth
Return the strained broth to medium heat, adding soy sauce, sesame oil, sea salt, and black pepper. Stir these ingredients gently, allowing them to blend into the clear broth for about 10 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning, ensuring a perfect balance of umami and warmth to enhance your soup.

Step 6: Add Optional Mushrooms
If you’re using mushrooms for added depth, now is the time to stir them in. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes. As you do this, the mushrooms will soften and infuse the broth with their woodsy flavor, enhancing the overall richness of your Japanese Clear Soup.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with freshly sliced green onions for a burst of crisp texture and flavor. The contrast of the warm broth with cool green onions makes a delightful presentation. Serve immediately and enjoy this comforting bowl of Japanese Clear Soup that warms the soul.

How to Store and Freeze Japanese Clear Soup

Fridge: Store any leftover Japanese Clear Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing to preserve freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Leave space at the top of the container to allow for expansion as it freezes.
Reheating: Thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Warm it gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until steaming hot.
Garnish Reminder: Add fresh garnishes like green onions just before serving to maintain their crispness and enhance the overall flavor of your revitalizing soup.

Japanese Clear Soup Variations You’ll Love

Feel free to make this delightful Japanese Clear Soup your own and explore exciting flavor combinations!

Vegetarian Swap:
Replace chicken and beef broth with vegetable broth; it offers a delicate flavor while keeping the essence of the soup. This variation is perfect for those who seek a lighter option while still enjoying that comforting warmth.
Herb Infusion:
Add a few sprigs of fresh herbs like thyme or cilantro for a fragrant twist. Simply toss them into the pot during simmering for an aromatic enhancement that creates a fresh, vibrant profile.
Umami Boost:
Incorporate dried shiitake mushrooms during simmering for an extra layer of umami flavor. The deep, earthy notes from the mushrooms will elevate the broth, creating a more complex taste that will delight your palate.
Zesty Twist:
Include a splash of fresh lemon juice or a hint of lime juice just before serving. This brightens the soup, adding a refreshing zing that complements the savory broth beautifully.
Spicy Kick:
Add a teaspoon of chili oil or crushed red pepper flakes for some heat. This will create a delightful contrast with the savory flavors and warm your soul on those chilly nights.
Mushroom Medley:
Use a combination of mushrooms like enoki, shiitake, and cremini. Each brings a unique texture and flavor that can truly transform your Japanese Clear Soup into an extraordinary dish.
Crunchy Toppings:
Top with crispy fried onions or tempura vegetables for a satisfying crunch. This addition offers a nice textural contrast while elevating the aesthetic appeal of your soup.
Flavorful Noodles:
Introduce some soba or udon noodles right before serving for a heartier version. Pairing the soup with noodles makes it not only filling but also the ideal one-bowl meal, reminiscent of traditional Japanese dashi-based recipes.

These variations are just the beginning! For more inspirations, consider trying an invigorating Spicy Lemongrass Soup or a comforting Bok Choy Soup to expand your culinary journey. Happy cooking!

Helpful Tricks for Japanese Clear Soup

Strain with Care: Use a fine mesh strainer to ensure your broth remains crystal clear by capturing all vegetable particles, avoiding cloudiness in your Japanese Clear Soup.
Simmer Gently: A gentle simmer is crucial; boiling too vigorously can lead to bitterness in your broth. Keep the heat low after the initial boil for best results.
Taste and Adjust: Flavor is key! Always taste the broth as you go, especially before serving. Adjust seasonings to match your preference, ensuring a harmonious balance.
Choose Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality broths for the best umami flavor. Fresh ingredients make a noticeable difference in taste and texture.
Garnish Smartly: Add green onions right before serving to maintain their crispness and freshness, enhancing both flavor and presentation.

Make Ahead Options

These Japanese Clear Soup preparations are perfect for busy weeknights! You can make the broth up to 3 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator for optimal flavors. To ensure quality, strain the soup after simmering and refrigerate the clear broth in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the broth on medium heat, adding in your soy sauce, sesame oil, and optional mushrooms, simmering for an additional 5 minutes. If you prefer, slice your green onions ahead as well and store them in the fridge for a quick garnish just before serving. This way, you’ll have a cozy, restaurant-quality Japanese Clear Soup ready with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Authentic Japanese Clear Soup

Savoring each spoonful of this warm broth is just the beginning; let’s create a delightful meal around it.

Steamed Rice: A bowl of fluffy steamed rice perfectly absorbs the broth, making each bite a comforting delight.
Sushi Platter: The freshness of sushi complements the lightness of the soup, offering vibrant flavors from the sea.
Tempura Vegetables: Crispy tempura adds a contrasting texture, allowing flavors to dance between crunchy and smooth.
Grilled Yakitori Skewers: These smoky chicken skewers bring added protein and a char-grilled flavor that pairs well with the broth.
Pickled Vegetables: Tart and tangy, pickled veggies offer a refreshing balance to the warm, savory soup, making every bite exciting.
Green Tea: A cup of traditional Japanese green tea enhances the overall experience, cleansing the palate with its earthy notes.
Miso Soup: For an extra layer of umami, serving miso alongside adds depth while keeping things in the Japanese flavor theme.
Bento Box: A colorful bento filled with diverse flavors and textures can turn your meal into a visually appealing feast.
Sweet Mochi: End the meal with a delicate and chewy treat; the sweetness of mochi provides a delightful contrast to the savory broth.

Japanese Clear Soup Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting chicken and beef broth?
Absolutely! When choosing chicken and beef broth, opt for organic or low-sodium varieties to ensure a healthier base for your soup. Look for broths that have a rich color and are free from artificial preservatives. For a vegetarian option, vegetable broth should have a vibrant color and pronounced aroma, which can elevate the flavor of your soup.

How should I store leftover Japanese Clear Soup?
For the best results, store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing to maintain its freshness. If you need to keep it longer, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just make sure to leave some space at the top of the container for expansion.

Can I freeze Japanese Clear Soup? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your Japanese Clear Soup, first let it cool completely, then pour it into freezer-safe containers. Make sure to leave about an inch of space at the top to allow for expansion during freezing. Alternatively, you can use silicone ice cube trays for individual servings. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a zip-top bag for easy storage, and label the bag with the date. It will keep well for up to 3 months!

How can I prevent my broth from turning cloudy?
To keep your Japanese Clear Soup beautifully clear, always strain it through a fine mesh sieve after simmering. Avoid stirring the brew too vigorously, as this can introduce cloudiness. If you notice that your broth is cloudy from the start, you may have boiled it too aggressively—next time, maintain a gentle simmer after the initial boil.

Is Japanese Clear Soup suitable for everyone, including those with dietary restrictions?
Very! This soup is versatile and can be easily tailored to meet dietary needs. For those with gluten sensitivity, use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. To make it vegetarian, simply substitute the chicken and beef broths with a rich vegetable broth. Always double-check all ingredients for allergens, particularly soy and sesame oil, to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.

Can I add more vegetables to enhance the soup?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like bok choy, spinach, or even tofu can increase the nutritional content and create a heartier soup. If you choose to add leafy greens, toss them in during the last few minutes of cooking to retain their vibrant color and crunch. Feel free to experiment with your favorite vegetables while keeping the basic broth intact.