Hibachi Clear Soup Recipe

Introduction
Hibachi Clear Soup, often served as a starter at Japanese steakhouses, is a light and aromatic broth that sets the stage for a delightful meal. Known for its delicate flavor, this soup combines vegetables, ginger, and garlic to create a warm, umami-rich experience. Its simplicity, combined with an elegant presentation, makes it a perfect addition to your culinary repertoire. Ready in less than 30 minutes, this comforting soup is easy to prepare and customizable to suit any palate.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base:

• 6 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
• 1 medium carrot, sliced
• 1 celery stalk, sliced
• 1 small onion, quartered
• 2 garlic cloves, smashed
• 1-inch piece fresh ginger, sliced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

For Garnish:

• Thinly sliced mushrooms (shiitake or button)
• 2 green onions, sliced thinly
• Fried onions or crispy shallots (optional)
• A few sprigs of parsley

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Wash and slice the carrot, celery, onion, and ginger.
2. Smash the garlic cloves gently to release their aroma.

Step 2: Make the Broth

1. In a large pot, combine chicken or vegetable broth, sliced carrot, celery, onion, garlic, and ginger.
2. Add the soy sauce and salt for seasoning.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

1. Bring the pot to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
2. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Taste the broth and adjust seasoning with more salt or soy sauce if needed.

Step 4: Strain the Broth

1. Using a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth, strain the soup to remove the vegetables and aromatics, leaving only the clear broth.
2. Discard the solids or save them for another recipe (e.g., a stir-fry or compost).

Step 5: Add the Garnish

1. Return the clear broth to the pot and keep it warm.
2. Ladle the soup into bowls and add thinly sliced mushrooms, green onions, and a sprinkling of crispy fried onions or parsley.

Step 6: Serve
Serve the soup hot as an appetizer or alongside hibachi-style meals like grilled meats, vegetables, or fried rice.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Tips

• Pair this soup with a side of hibachi fried rice or noodles for a complete Japanese-inspired meal.
• For an added kick, drizzle a tiny amount of sesame oil or sriracha before serving.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store the strained broth in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat.
• Freezing: This soup freezes well. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Helpful Notes

• Broth Variations: For extra depth of flavor, use homemade chicken broth or dashi (Japanese stock made with kombu and bonito flakes).
• Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth and skip the crispy fried onions unless they’re vegetarian-friendly.
• Mushroom Choices: Shiitake mushrooms lend an earthy taste, but white button mushrooms or enoki mushrooms work well too.
• Customizable: Add thin slices of tofu, zucchini, or bok choy for added texture and nutrition.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

• Masaharu Morimoto: To elevate the broth, use kombu (dried seaweed) while simmering for a hint of umami. Remove the kombu before straining.
• Rachael Ray: Add a splash of mirin or rice vinegar for a subtle sweetness that balances the savory flavors.
• Roy Yamaguchi: Garnish with toasted sesame seeds for an extra nutty aroma and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is Hibachi Clear Soup?
   It’s a light and flavorful broth made with simple vegetables, aromatics, and broth. Often served as a starter in Japanese hibachi-style restaurants.
2. Can I make this soup vegan?
   Yes! Substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth and ensure your soy sauce and garnishes are vegan-friendly.
3. Can I use powdered ginger and garlic instead of fresh?
   Fresh ginger and garlic are ideal for their aromatic qualities, but you can substitute with 1/4 teaspoon each of powdered ginger and garlic in a pinch.
4. Is this soup gluten-free?
   Use a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to ensure the soup is gluten-free.
5. What other vegetables can I add?
   Zucchini, bok choy, or napa cabbage make great additions without overpowering the broth’s delicate flavor.
6. Can I skip straining the broth?
   Straining ensures a smooth, clear soup. However, you can leave the vegetables in if you prefer a rustic presentation.
7. What protein can I add to this soup?
   Thinly sliced chicken, shrimp, or cubes of tofu are excellent protein additions.
8. Can I use pre-made broth?
   Yes, pre-made broth works well, but simmering it with fresh aromatics enhances the flavor.
9. What can I serve with this soup?
   Serve it as an appetizer or alongside hibachi-style grilled meats, vegetables, or fried rice.
10. How can I make the broth richer?
    Simmer the broth for a longer time or add a splash of sake for complexity.