Miso Soup
A savory Japanese-inspired miso soup featuring shrimp, tofu, and green onions, perfect for comfort and light meals, adaptable with optional noodles for heartier servings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook dried shrimp in water for 10 minutes.
- Bring water to a boil and let it simmer.
- Place miso in a strainer over a pot and pour the shrimp water through until all miso is dissolved.
- Cut tofu into 1/2-inch cubes and add to the stock.
- Bring the soup to a boil again.
- Remove from heat and add finely chopped green onions.
- Optionally, add Saimin noodles at the same time as the tofu for a heavier soup.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or a few slices of ginger while simmering the shrimp. If you're out of miso, tahini can serve as a substitute, although the taste will differ. You can also use fresh shrimp instead of dried for a different texture. Pair this soup with a light salad for a complete meal, such as Quick 'N Easy Seafood Salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the miso soup hot, garnished with additional green onions for freshness. It pairs wonderfully with a side of rice or sushi for a full Japanese-inspired meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside a light salad or even as a starter to dishes like Fish Creole, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover miso soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop to prevent the tofu from breaking apart. If adding noodles, it's best to cook them separately and add them fresh when serving, as they can become mushy in leftovers.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Miso Soup contains roughly 461 calories, with 32g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (64% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (63% of the Daily Value), and iron (56% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 900mg per serving (39% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the soup base ahead of time, but it's best to add the tofu and any noodles just before serving to maintain their texture. The flavors will meld beautifully if you let it sit for a while, but keep the ingredients separate until you're ready to enjoy.
What can I substitute for tofu?
If you prefer not to use tofu, consider using cooked chicken, shrimp, or even mushrooms as alternatives. Each option will lend a different flavor and texture to the soup. For a vegetarian option, try adding more vegetables like bok choy or spinach.
Is miso soup healthy?
Yes, miso soup is generally considered healthy due to its low calorie count and the presence of probiotics from miso. It's rich in vitamins and minerals, especially if you include vegetables. Just be mindful of the sodium content in miso and adjust according to your dietary needs.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).