As the temperature drops and the nights grow darker, there’s nothing quite like curling up with a warm, comforting bowl of miso soup to cozy up and forget the chill outside. This traditional Japanese staple has become a global favorite, and for good reason – its rich, savory flavor profile is both soothing and satisfying. But did you know that miso soup can be so much more than just a simple dashi broth with tofu? With 18 delicious recipes to choose from, we’re excited to take your taste buds on a journey around the world, exploring the many flavors and variations of this beloved dish.
From classic combinations like shiro miso and wakame seaweed to bold twists like spicy red miso and pork, there’s something for everyone in our collection. Whether you’re looking for a hearty, comforting bowl to warm up on a cold winter night or a lighter, brighter option to brighten up your springtime meals, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll dive into each of these 18 mouth-watering recipes, sharing the secrets and techniques that will elevate your miso soup game from basic to brilliant. So grab a spoon, get cozy, and let’s dig in!
Classic Shiro Miso Soup with Tofu and Wakame
A comforting and flavorful Japanese soup that’s easy to make and packed with nutrients. This classic recipe is a staple of Japanese cuisine, featuring tender tofu, wakame seaweed, and a rich white miso broth.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups dashi broth (or vegetable broth)
– 1/4 cup white miso paste
– 1 block firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 1/4 cup wakame seaweed, rehydrated in water
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine dashi broth and white miso paste. Whisk until smooth.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Add tofu, wakame seaweed, soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. Cook for 5 minutes or until heated through.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Ladle into bowls and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spicy Red Miso Soup with Pork and Vegetables
Warm up with this bold and savory soup that combines the richness of pork, the spiciness of Korean chili flakes, and the depth of red miso. Perfect for a cozy evening meal or a hearty lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 pound ground pork
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, mushrooms)
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon red miso paste
– 1 teaspoon Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add pork and cook until browned, breaking up with spoon as needed.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Add mixed vegetables and chicken broth. Bring to boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
4. Stir in red miso paste and Korean chili flakes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Creamy White Miso Soup with Sweet Corn and Butter
Warm up on a chilly day with this comforting and creamy soup, infused with the sweetness of corn and the savory umami of miso. This simple yet flavorful recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 2 tablespoons white miso paste
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Pour in chicken broth and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Stir in miso paste until dissolved. Add corn kernels and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vegan Miso Soup with Shiitake Mushrooms and Kale
This hearty and comforting soup is a perfect blend of savory miso, earthy shiitake mushrooms, and nutritious kale. A simple yet flavorful recipe that’s ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (shiitake and cremini), sliced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons white miso paste
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1 bunch kale, stems removed and chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the sesame oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth, miso paste, and ginger. Bring to a simmer.
5. Stir in the chopped kale and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Seafood Miso Soup with Clams and Scallions
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of savory seafood, spicy miso, and crunchy scallions. A comforting bowl to warm up on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 1/4 cup white miso paste
– 2 cups fish stock (or chicken or vegetable stock)
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, thinly sliced, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add clams and stir to combine. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until clams start to open.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together miso paste and fish stock. Pour into the pot with the clams.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until clams are fully opened.
5. Stir in soy sauce and sesame oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with scallions and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Umami-Packed Dashi Miso Soup with Bonito Flakes
This recipe is a masterclass in umami flavors, combining the rich dashi broth with savory miso paste and crunchy bonito flakes for a depth of flavor that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons dried kelp (kombu)
– 1 tablespoon dried bonito flakes (katsuobushi)
– 2 tablespoons white miso paste
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sake or dry sherry (optional)
– 1/4 cup sliced green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine water and kombu. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
2. Add bonito flakes and continue simmering for another 5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and let steep for 10-15 minutes.
4. Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean pot, discarding solids.
5. Whisk in miso paste until dissolved. Add soy sauce and sake (if using).
6. Serve hot, garnished with green onions.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Silken Tofu and Spinach Miso Soup
This comforting and nutritious soup combines the rich flavors of miso paste, spinach, and silken tofu to create a velvety smooth and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 block silken tofu (12 oz), drained and crumbled
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 tablespoons white miso paste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add the vegetable broth, miso paste, and spinach leaves to the pot. Bring to a simmer.
3. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
4. Stir in the crumbled silken tofu and season with salt to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional spinach leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Garlic and Ginger Miso Soup for Immunity Boost
This hearty soup combines the antimicrobial properties of garlic and ginger with the probiotic benefits of miso, creating a delicious and nutritious recipe to support your immune system.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons white miso paste
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the sesame oil over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger; cook, stirring occasionally, until fragrant, about 3 minutes.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
4. Stir in the miso paste and soy sauce until dissolved.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Miso Ramen Soup with Soft-Boiled Egg and Noodles
This Japanese-inspired soup is a comforting and flavorful treat that’s easy to prepare. With the rich flavors of miso paste, savory chicken broth, and tender noodles, this recipe is perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons white miso paste
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 8 ounces ramen noodles
– 1/2 cup sliced scallions
– 1 soft-boiled egg, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken broth, miso paste, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Whisk until the miso is fully dissolved.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Cook ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Add sliced scallions to the soup and cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Place a soft-boiled egg on top of each bowl of noodles.
6. Ladle the hot soup over the egg and noodles. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Winter Squash and Miso Soup with Toasted Sesame
As the winter days grow colder, warm up with this comforting and nutritious soup. The sweetness of roasted squash pairs perfectly with the savory umami of miso, all tied together with a crunchy toasted sesame garnish.
Ingredients:
– 1 small to medium-sized winter squash (such as butternut or kabocha), peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons white miso paste
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds (see notes)
– Fresh cilantro or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss squash cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic in a little bit of oil until softened.
4. Add roasted squash, vegetable broth, and miso paste to the pot. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until soup has thickened slightly.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with toasted sesame seeds and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Quick Miso Soup with Enoki Mushrooms and Green Onions
A comforting and flavorful soup that combines the richness of miso paste with the delicate sweetness of Enoki mushrooms and a pop of freshness from green onions. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a soothing pick-me-up on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons white miso paste
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1 cup Enoki mushrooms, sliced
– 2 green onions, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium pot, whisk together broth, miso paste, soy sauce, and ginger.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Add the sliced Enoki mushrooms and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they’re tender.
4. Stir in green onions and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Savory Chicken and Miso Soup with Daikon Radish
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup that combines the savory taste of chicken, miso paste, and daikon radish. Perfect for a chilly evening or as a pick-me-up during the day.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup white miso paste
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tsp grated ginger
– 1 medium daikon radish, peeled and sliced
– 2 green onions, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken, water, miso paste, soy sauce, and ginger. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
2. Add daikon radish and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes or until tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with green onions and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Golden Turmeric Miso Soup with Coconut Milk
Warm up with this comforting and nourishing soup that combines the earthy flavors of turmeric, miso, and coconut milk. This golden elixir is perfect for a cozy evening or a pick-me-up any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/4 cup miso paste
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
– 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, ginger, and turmeric. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Stir in miso paste and broth. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Stir in coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Japanese-Inspired Miso Soup with Eggplant and Shiso
This hearty and comforting soup combines the rich flavors of miso paste, tender eggplant, and fragrant shiso leaves to create a truly Japanese-inspired culinary experience. Serve it as a soothing side dish or a satisfying main course.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups dashi broth (or vegetable broth)
– 1/4 cup white miso paste
– 1 medium eggplant, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons chopped shiso leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine dashi broth and miso paste. Whisk until smooth.
2. Heat sesame oil in a separate pan over medium heat. Add eggplant and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add cooked eggplant, garlic, and shiso leaves to the pot with the miso soup. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional shiso leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Light and Refreshing Cucumber Miso Soup
This refreshing soup is perfect for hot summer days when you need a cooling pick-me-up. With the creamy richness of miso and the crunch of cucumber, this recipe is sure to hit the spot.
Ingredients:
– 2 large cucumbers, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons white miso paste
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 cup vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh mint leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine the cucumber, miso paste, lemon juice, and vegetable broth.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
5. Garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This soup is ready in just a few minutes.
Rich Miso Soup with Ground Pork and Bean Sprouts
This hearty soup combines the savory flavors of miso paste with the comfort of ground pork and crunchy bean sprouts, making it a perfect cold-weather treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 pound ground pork
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup miso paste
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup bean sprouts
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
2. Add ground pork and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add garlic, chicken broth, miso paste, water, soy sauce, and ginger. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
4. Stir in salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with bean sprouts.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Comforting Miso Soup with Udon and Bok Choy
This heartwarming soup is a perfect blend of Japanese flavors, featuring tender udon noodles, crisp bok choy, and a rich miso broth. Perfect for a cozy night in or a quick pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon white miso paste
– 1/4 cup sliced green onions
– 8 oz udon noodles
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups bok choy leaves and stems, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine broth and miso paste. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Cook udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. Add soy sauce, garlic, and bok choy to the pot. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until bok choy is tender.
4. Add cooked udon noodles to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with green onions.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Zesty Lemon Miso Soup with Seaweed and Tofu
Brighten up your day with this refreshing and nourishing soup, combining the tanginess of lemon, the savory umami of miso, and the nutty flavor of seaweed. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup white miso paste
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 1 block firm tofu, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup wakame seaweed (or other edible seaweed)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine broth, miso paste, lemon juice, and sesame oil. Whisk until smooth.
2. Add sliced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add tofu and seaweed. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the ingredients are well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Cozy up on chilly nights with these 18 hearty miso soup recipes. From classic shiro miso soup with tofu and wakame to spicy red miso soup with pork and vegetables, there’s something for everyone. Try creamy white miso soup with sweet corn and butter, or go vegan with shiitake mushrooms and kale. Other options include seafood miso soup with clams and scallions, umami-packed dashi miso soup with bonito flakes, and many more. Whether you’re looking for a comfort food classic or a nutritious boost, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
