Japanese Miso Soup

Ingredients:

• 4 cups dashi broth (Japanese fish broth)
• 3 tablespoons miso paste (white, red, or a blend)
• 200g firm tofu, cut into small cubes
• 1 cup dried wakame seaweed, rehydrated and chopped
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)
• 1 tablespoon mirin (sweet rice wine)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional)
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
• Freshly ground black pepper

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dashi:
   • In a saucepan, heat the dashi broth until it’s warm but not boiling. Avoid boiling to preserve delicate flavors.
2. Dilute the Miso Paste:
   • In a separate bowl, dilute the miso paste with a small amount of warm broth to avoid lumps. Gradually add the diluted miso paste to the saucepan while stirring.
3. Add the Ingredients:
   • Stir in the tofu, rehydrated wakame seaweed, green onions, soy sauce (if using), and mirin into the saucepan. Simmer for a few minutes until the tofu is heated through, and flavors are well combined.
4. Season and Garnish:
   • Taste and adjust seasoning with freshly ground black pepper. Add soy sauce or mirin according to your preferences.
   • Incorporate sesame oil (if using) for an extra aromatic touch.
5. Serve:
   • Pour the miso soup into individual bowls.
   • Garnish with toasted sesame seeds.
   • Serve hot and enjoy!

This Japanese Miso Soup not only offers delightful flavors but is also nutritious and comforting. Enjoy this traditional Japanese dish at home!