Natto-Jiru (Natto Soup With Miso, Tofu, and Vegetables)

Name: Natto-Jiru (Natto Soup With Miso, Tofu, and Vegetables)
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients: 1 cup of mushrooms, such as shiitake, shimeji, or enoki; 5 cups (1.2L) of dashi; 1 cup of mixed vegetables, such as carrot, daikon, and lotus root; 1/4 cup (12g) of dried wakame seaweed; 1/4 cup (1.8 ounces; 50g) of natto (refer to note); 2 tablespoons (34g) of chogo/awase (mixed) miso or brown rice miso; 2 tablespoons (34g) of shiromiso (sweet white miso); 1/2 block of silken, medium, or firm tofu (8 ounces, 227g), cut into 1/2-inch cubes (about 1 cup); Sliced scallions, for garnish

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By AprilPublished Aug 8, 2023

Greetings, fellow food enthusiasts! Are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure?

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Natto-Jiru (Natto Soup With Miso, Tofu, and Vegetables)

Prep: 5 min
Cook: 15 min
Total: 20 min
Servings: 4

Method

Prepare the mushrooms by washing them to remove any dirt. Discard the tough stems and slice the shiitake caps and any other large mushroom caps. Separate the mushroom clusters into manageable groups.
In a medium saucepan, bring the dashi to a simmer over medium-high heat.
Add the vegetables and mushrooms to the saucepan. Cover the saucepan and reduce the heat to medium-low. Simmer for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the vegetables and mushrooms are tender.
Uncover the saucepan and stir in the wakame. Remove the soup from the heat.
In a suribachi or mortar and pestle, grind the natto into a mostly smooth and very sticky paste. Alternatively, you can place the natto in a small bowl and mash it with a fork.
In a small bowl, whisk together the mixed miso and sweet white miso. Add 3 tablespoons of hot dashi broth to the miso mixture and whisk until smooth and free of lumps.
Stir the miso mixture into the soup until well combined.
Whisk 2 tablespoons of hot dashi broth into the natto paste to loosen it, then stir the natto paste into the soup.
Gently stir in the cubed tofu.
Serve the soup immediately, garnished with scallions.

About this recipe

Natto-Jiru (Natto Soup With Miso Tofu and Vegetables)

Introduction

Greetings, fellow food enthusiasts! Are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure? Today, we'll be diving into the world of Japanese cuisine and exploring the delightful flavors of Natto-Jiru, a traditional soup made with natto, miso tofu, and an array of vegetables. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds and discover the wonders of this delectable dish.

The Origins of Natto-Jiru

Before we delve into the recipe, let's take a moment to appreciate the history and cultural significance of Natto-Jiru. Originating from Japan, this soup has been enjoyed for centuries and is deeply rooted in the country's culinary traditions. It serves as a testament to the rich and diverse gastronomic heritage of Japan.

The Unique Ingredient: Natto

At the heart of Natto-Jiru lies the star ingredient - natto. For those unfamiliar, natto is a traditional Japanese food made from fermented soybeans. It boasts a unique texture and a distinct flavor profile that may be an acquired taste for some. However, its health benefits and umami-packed punch make it a prized ingredient in Japanese cuisine.

Embracing Umami

Imagine a flavor that is savory, slightly nutty, and bursting with umami goodness. That's what natto brings to the table. Just like the best ingredients in life, natto has its own personality and enriches the overall taste experience of Natto-Jiru. It's like a magical touch that elevates every spoonful of soup to new heights.

Miso Tofu and the Art of Balance

Every great dish needs a balancing act, and Natto-Jiru is no exception. Enter miso tofu, a silky and creamy addition that harmonizes the flavors in the soup. Miso, a fermented soybean paste, provides depth and complexity, while tofu brings a delicate texture that contrasts beautifully with the robustness of natto.

Preparing Natto-Jiru

Now that we've learned about the key players in this culinary symphony, let's dive into the preparation of Natto-Jiru. This recipe is a celebration of simplicity, allowing the flavors of each ingredient to shine through.

A Symphony of Vegetables

No soup is complete without a medley of vibrant vegetables. Carrots, daikon radish, green onions, and mushrooms dance together to create a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Each vegetable brings its unique characteristics to the table, adding depth and variety to every spoonful.

Chop, Stir, and Simmer

Preparing Natto-Jiru is a delightful journey that begins with chopping the vegetables into bite-sized pieces. Once the stage is set, it's time to stir-fry them in a pot, allowing the flavors to meld and mingle. Finally, a gentle simmer brings everything together, resulting in a soup that is both comforting and satisfying.

Conclusion

As we reach the end of our exploration of Natto-Jiru, we hope you've discovered the magic of this traditional Japanese soup. From the umami-rich natto to the harmonious blend of miso tofu and vegetables, every spoonful is a symphony of flavors. So, gather your ingredients, let your creativity flourish, and immerse yourself in the wonderful world of Natto-Jiru.

Frequently asked questions

Can I substitute natto with another ingredient?: While natto is the star of Natto-Jiru, you can experiment with other fermented soybean products or even tofu to provide a similar texture and depth of flavor.
Is Natto-Jiru suitable for vegetarians?: Absolutely! By using vegetable-based dashi or broth and omitting any animal-derived ingredients, Natto-Jiru can be a delightful option for vegetarians.
Can I freeze Natto-Jiru?: While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze Natto-Jiru in individual portions for future meals. Just make sure to thaw and reheat it gently to preserve the flavors.
How long does Natto-Jiru keep in the refrigerator?: When stored in an airtight container, Natto-Jiru can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. However, it's always best to consume it when it's at its freshest.
Can I customize the vegetables in Natto-Jiru?: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite vegetables or use whatever is in season to add your personal touch to this delightful soup.
Is Natto-Jiru spicy?: The level of spiciness in Natto-Jiru can be adjusted to suit your taste. You can add chili paste or sprinkle some red pepper flakes if you prefer a bit of heat.
Can I serve Natto-Jiru as a main dish?: While Natto-Jiru is often enjoyed as a side dish or appetizer, you can certainly make it the star of your meal by serving it with steamed rice or noodles.
Are there any health benefits to eating Natto-Jiru?: Yes! Natto-Jiru is packed with nutrients and beneficial compounds. From the probiotics in natto to the antioxidants found in the vegetables, this soup is a wholesome choice for a nourishing meal.