Light, savory, and full of gentle flavor — Japanese clear onion soup is one of those quietly comforting dishes that feels like a deep exhale.
You’ve probably tasted it at a Japanese restaurant: a golden broth, a few slices of onion, maybe a mushroom floating gently, and a bit of green scallion on top.
Here’s how to make your own simple Japanese clear onion soup at home — no fuss, just pure comfort in a bowl 🍵🧅
🌱 What is Japanese clear onion soup?
It’s a light broth-based soup made with onions, garlic, and a few umami-rich ingredients like soy sauce or dashi.
Unlike creamy Western onion soups, this one is clear and delicate — meant to warm the stomach without weighing you down.
Perfect as a starter or a light meal.
🥣 Ingredients (for 2 servings)
- 1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 1 garlic clove, crushed
- 2 ½ cups water (or dashi broth)
- 1 tsp soy sauce
- ½ tsp mirin (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
- 1 tsp vegetable or sesame oil
- A few thin mushroom slices (shiitake or button)
- Salt to taste
- Chopped scallions for garnish
🔪 Step-by-step
1. Sauté the aromatics
In a small pot, heat a bit of oil.
Add the sliced onion and garlic.
Cook gently over medium heat for about 5–7 minutes, until the onion is soft and fragrant but not browned.
2. Add water or broth
Pour in the water (or dashi if using).
Add soy sauce, mirin, mushrooms, and a pinch of salt.
Let everything simmer gently for about 10 minutes.
3. Strain if you want a clear finish
For that restaurant-style clarity, you can strain the broth before serving.
Or leave everything in for a more rustic feel.
4. Garnish and serve
Top with chopped scallions or a few slices of fresh mushroom.
Sip slowly and enjoy the warmth.
🧘♀️ A few variations
- Add a tiny drop of grated ginger for a healing touch
- Use miso broth for a slightly richer version
- Add tofu cubes or rice noodles if you want to make it a light meal
This soup is a reminder that flavor doesn’t need to be loud.
Just a few humble ingredients, layered slowly and served with care.
Let it be your go-to for quiet evenings, gentle resets, or just something warm to hold.
