Miso Ginger Winter Soup

Embrace the season with this Miso Ginger Winter Soup, a light and restorative meal designed to warm you from the inside out. This Japanese-inspired dish combines the immunity-boosting properties of fresh ginger and garlic with the gut-healthy benefits of probiotic-rich miso, creating a nourishing bowl that is as comforting as it is healthy.

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This soup is a beautiful balance of textures and flavors. Earthy shiitake mushrooms and crisp carrots swim in a golden, ginger-infused broth, while fresh greens provide a nutrient-rich finish. It is the perfect remedy for cold weather or when you simply need a clean, restorative meal.

Ingredients

• Broth: 6 cups low-sodium vegetable broth, 2-inch piece fresh ginger (peeled and thinly sliced), 2 cloves garlic (thinly sliced), 2 tablespoons white or yellow miso paste
• Vegetables: 1 cup shiitake mushrooms (thinly sliced), 1 cup baby spinach or bok choy (roughly chopped), 1 medium carrot (julienned or thinly sliced), 2 green onions (sliced)
• Garnish: 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds, 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (optional), 1 teaspoon chili oil or a pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

Step 1

In a large saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a gentle simmer over medium heat.

Step 2

Add the sliced ginger and garlic. Simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse the broth.

Step 3

Incorporate the sliced shiitake mushrooms and julienned carrot. Cook for 5 minutes until they are just tender.

Step 4

Remove a ladleful of the hot broth and place it in a small bowl. Whisk it with the miso paste until completely smooth.

Step 5

Reduce the soup heat to low. Stir the miso mixture back into the saucepan, ensuring the soup does not boil to preserve the probiotics.

Step 6

Add the baby spinach or bok choy along with the green onions. Stir for about 1 minute until the greens are just wilted.

Step 7

Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional miso or a splash of soy sauce if desired.

Step 8

Ladle the soup into warm bowls and top with toasted sesame seeds, cilantro, and chili oil or red pepper flakes if using.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To get the most out of your miso, never add it to boiling water. The high heat can destroy the delicate probiotics. Always whisk the paste with a bit of warm broth separately before stirring it in at the very end of the cooking process on low heat.

Varianten und Anpassungen

This soup is highly versatile. For a protein boost, add cubed silken tofu. If you want a more substantial meal, stir in cooked soba or udon noodles. You can also swap the spinach for other hardy greens like kale or Swiss chard, though these may require a few extra minutes of simmering.

Serviervorschläge

Serve this Miso Ginger Winter Soup in deep ceramic bowls to retain the heat. A drizzle of chili oil adds a lovely warmth, while the toasted sesame seeds provide a subtle crunch that complements the tender vegetables perfectly.

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At just 90 calories per serving, this Miso Ginger Winter Soup is a guilt-free way to stay warm and satisfied. Whether you are seeking a light lunch or a restorative dinner starter, this bowl of goodness is the perfect winter companion.

Recipe Q&A

→ Can I use different types of miso paste?

Yes, you can use white, yellow, or red miso. White and yellow miso are milder and sweeter, while red miso provides a deeper, more robust flavor. Choose based on your taste preference.

→ Why shouldn't I boil the soup after adding miso?

Boiling miso destroys the beneficial probiotics and enzymes that make it so healthy. Adding miso at the end on low heat preserves these nutritional benefits while still infusing the soup with flavor.

→ How can I make this soup more filling?

Add cubed silken or firm tofu for protein, or include cooked soba or udon noodles for a heartier meal. You can also double the amount of vegetables or add edamame.

→ What can I substitute for shiitake mushrooms?

You can use any mushroom variety such as cremini, button, or oyster mushrooms. Each will provide a slightly different flavor profile but will work well in this soup.

→ How long can I store leftover miso soup?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat without boiling to preserve the miso's probiotic benefits.

→ Can I prepare this soup in advance?

You can prepare the broth base with ginger, garlic, and vegetables in advance. Add the miso paste and fresh greens just before serving to maintain optimal flavor and nutrition.