Miso Ginger Winter Soup

When the cold winter air sets in, there is nothing more soothing than a bowl of Miso Ginger Winter Soup. This light and restorative meal is designed to nourish the body with warming ginger, nutrient-rich vegetables, and the savory depth of probiotic-rich miso. It is a quick yet deeply satisfying dish that brings a sense of wellness to your table in just 30 minutes.

Save

This Japanese-inspired soup is perfect for those looking for a healthy, easy-to-make dinner. The combination of sliced garlic, fresh ginger, and earthy shiitake mushrooms creates a complex flavor profile that feels far more intricate than its simple preparation suggests. Whether you are feeling under the weather or just need a light evening meal, this soup provides the perfect balance of comfort and nutrition.

Ingredients

• 6 cups (1.5 L) low-sodium vegetable broth
• 2-inch (5 cm) piece fresh ginger, peeled and thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons white or yellow miso paste
• 1 cup (100 g) shiitake mushrooms, thinly sliced
• 1 cup (60 g) baby spinach or bok choy, roughly chopped
• 1 medium carrot, julienned or thinly sliced
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 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 infuse the broth.

Step 3

Add the mushrooms and carrot. Cook for 5 minutes until just tender.

Step 4

Remove a ladleful of hot broth and whisk with the miso paste in a small bowl until smooth.

Step 5

Reduce the soup heat to low. Stir the miso mixture back into the pot (do not boil after adding miso to preserve probiotics).

Step 6

Add the spinach or bok choy and green onions. Stir until wilted, about 1 minute.

Step 7

Taste and adjust seasoning with more miso or a splash of soy sauce if desired.

Step 8

Ladle into bowls and top with sesame seeds, cilantro, and chili oil or flakes if using.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To ensure the best texture, always whisk your miso in a separate small bowl with a bit of warm broth before adding it to the main pot; this prevents lumps. Be careful not to boil the soup once the miso is added, as high heat can destroy the beneficial live cultures in the paste.

Varianten und Anpassungen

You can easily customize this soup to suit your preferences. For extra protein, add cubed silken tofu. If you want a heartier meal, stir in some cooked soba or udon noodles. You can also experiment with different greens like kale or use red miso for a bolder, more robust flavor profile.

Serviervorschläge

Ladle the soup into large ceramic bowls and garnish generously with toasted sesame seeds and fresh cilantro. A drizzle of chili oil adds a lovely warmth and visual appeal. This soup pairs beautifully with a side of steamed edamame or a simple cucumber salad.

Save

Save

This Miso Ginger Winter Soup is a testament to the power of simple, high-quality ingredients. It is a bowl of pure comfort that leaves you feeling energized and warm. Enjoy this restorative dish throughout the winter months for a healthy and delicious escape from the cold.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the broth with vegetables up to 2 days in advance. Store refrigerated and add the miso just before serving, reheating gently without boiling to preserve the probiotics.

→ What type of miso works best?

White or yellow miso provides a mild, slightly sweet flavor ideal for this light soup. Red miso offers a deeper, more robust taste if you prefer a bolder flavor profile.

→ How can I make this more filling?

Add cubed silken tofu for protein, or stir in cooked soba or udon noodles. You can also increase the vegetable quantity or add edamame for extra substance.

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

Boiling destroys the beneficial probiotics in miso paste and can alter its delicate flavor. Always add miso at the end and keep the heat low to preserve its nutritional benefits.

→ What can I substitute for shiitake mushrooms?

Button mushrooms, cremini, or oyster mushrooms work well as alternatives. Each provides a slightly different texture and flavor but will still complement the ginger and miso beautifully.

→ Can I freeze this soup?

It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the broth base without miso for up to 3 months. Thaw, reheat gently, then whisk in fresh miso and add vegetables just before serving.