International Cuisine > Japanese Cuisine > Soups & Stews (Japanese) > Miso Soup Recipe

Vegetarian Miso Soup with Shiitake Mushrooms and Spinach

A flavorful and nutritious vegetarian miso soup featuring shiitake mushrooms and spinach. This recipe is perfect for a quick, healthy, and satisfying meal.

Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Servings
4
Ingredients
  • 4 cups Vegetable Dashi
  • 2 tablespoons Miso Paste (Shiro)
  • 1 cup Shiitake Mushrooms, thinly sliced
  • 2 cups Fresh Spinach
  • 1/2 block Tofu (firm or silken), cubed
  • 2 tablespoons Green Onion, chopped

Prepare the Ingredients

Wash and thinly slice the shiitake mushrooms. Wash the spinach thoroughly. Cube the tofu into small, bite-sized pieces. Chop the green onions.

Heat the Dashi

In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable dashi to a simmer over medium heat.

Cook the Mushrooms

Add the sliced shiitake mushrooms to the simmering dashi. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the mushrooms are slightly softened and have released their flavor into the broth.

Dissolve the Miso

In a small bowl, whisk the miso paste with about 1/2 cup of warm dashi until completely dissolved. This ensures even distribution of the miso and prevents clumping.

Add Tofu and Miso

Add the cubed tofu and the dissolved miso mixture to the saucepan. Gently stir to combine. Do not boil.

Add Spinach and Finish

Add the fresh spinach to the soup and cook for about 1-2 minutes, or until the spinach has wilted. Be careful not to overcook the spinach.

Serve and Garnish

Ladle the vegetarian miso soup into bowls and garnish with chopped green onions. Serve hot.

Nutrition Facts (Estimated per 100g)

Calories: Approximately 30-40 kcal, Protein: 2-3g, Fat: 1-2g, Carbohydrates: 3-4g. These values can vary based on the specific ingredients used.

Important Considerations for Nutrition

This miso soup is a good source of plant-based protein from the tofu and fiber from the spinach and mushrooms. Shiitake mushrooms are known for their immune-boosting properties. Remember that miso is high in sodium, so consume in moderation.

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FAQ

  • What is vegetable dashi?

    Vegetable dashi is a vegan alternative to traditional dashi, typically made from kombu (kelp) and dried shiitake mushrooms. It provides a savory and umami-rich base for vegetarian and vegan dishes.
  • Can I use dried shiitake mushrooms?

    Yes, you can use dried shiitake mushrooms. Rehydrate them in warm water for about 30 minutes before slicing and adding them to the soup. Reserve the soaking liquid to add extra flavor to the dashi.
  • Can I add other vegetables?

    Absolutely! You can customize this soup with other vegetables like seaweed, bok choy, or edamame. Consider adding a small amount of sesame oil for a nutty flavor.