In this article, I’d like to talk about miso soup. By reading this, you may see miso soup in a different light when you try it abroad or enjoy it even more in Japan. So, please stay with me till the end!
What is Miso Soup?
Miso soup is one of Japan’s traditional dishes and can be considered one of the most famous ones. It’s probably a favorite food for many Japanese people. It’s commonly enjoyed for breakfast or lunch, but some households serve it for dinner as well. In my wife’s family, miso soup is on the table every evening. With various ingredients, the taste of miso soup can differ, making it a dish that you won’t get tired of, even if you have it every day.
How is Miso Soup Made?
You might think miso soup is made by dissolving miso paste in hot water, but that’s not quite right. Miso soup is made by dissolving miso paste in something called “Dashi (出汁).” The Dashi is typically made from bonito flakes, but it can also be prepared from other ingredients. Additionally, there are various types of miso, such as red miso, white miso, and blended miso, each with its distinct flavor. Different regions have their specialty miso as well. So, even though we call it miso soup, it’s actually a deep and diverse dish.
Ingredients in Miso Soup
Miso soup can include a variety of ingredients. Common ones are tofu, seaweed, and onions. Other vegetables like eggplants, carrots, Japanese leek, and potatoes are also delicious options. When you add “nameko” mushrooms, it becomes miso soup with a slimy and unique texture, known as “Nameko-jiru”, while including pork or burdock root turns it into a “Tonjiru”, with the choice of ingredients significantly influencing the taste and aroma.
Miso Soup Abroad
You can find miso soup in many places overseas, but often, it’s just miso dissolved in hot water or lacking the proper dashi. I’ve encountered such experiences multiple times in hotel breakfast buffets abroad. If you happen to get authentic miso soup with proper dashi, it’s like having a lucky day! I often feel like it’s a good omen for the day ahead!
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If you visit Japan, be sure to try miso soup! Most Japanese restaurants serve it, and it’s fun to taste the different flavors and ingredients. You can also buy cup miso soup at convenience stores and just add hot water for a quick and delicious experience. That’s also highly recommended.
