Ginger Miso Brothy Soup with Crispy Sesame Tofu

This Ginger Miso Brothy Soup with Crispy Sesame Tofu is a fragrant, warming bowl featuring a deeply savory broth and satisfying, golden crispy tofu on top. Fresh ginger, garlic, scallions, and lemon brighten the rich miso base — making it comforting yet light.

It’s simple enough for a weeknight meal but impressive enough to serve guests. Most of the work goes into layering flavor in the broth while you crisp up the tofu — a delicious balance of textures.

Why You’ll Love It

This soup has deep umami flavor from miso and mushrooms, fresh brightness from ginger and lemon, and a crisp texture from shredded sesame tofu. It’s comforting, nourishing, and perfect served over rice for a complete but not heavy meal.

What You’ll Need (Ingredients)

For the Crispy Sesame Tofu

• Super firm tofu — holds its shape for shredding
• Tamari — salty, savory seasoning
• Rice vinegar — adds a touch of brightness
• Cornstarch — helps the tofu crisp up
• Sesame seeds — adds nutty crunch
• Avocado oil — for baking

For the Ginger Miso Broth

• Avocado oil — sauté base
• Yellow onion — for sweetness
• Fresh ginger — warm spice
• Garlic — aromatic depth
• Fresno pepper (optional) — gentle heat
• Scallions (white + green parts separated) — fresh onion notes
• Dried shiitake mushrooms — deep umami
• Hot water — broth base
• Yellow miso paste — fermented savory richness
• Sesame oil — extra aroma
• Lemon (juice + zest) — bright finish
• Cooked rice — to serve with the broth
• Salt — to taste

Tools for This Recipe

• Baking sheet + parchment paper
• Box grater
• Medium soup pot
• Immersion or regular blender
• Mixing bowls
• Knife & cutting board
• Tongs
• Measuring cups & spoons

How to Make It (Step-by-Step Overview)

Step Block 1 — Prep & Crispy Tofu

1. Preheat oven: 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment.
2. Shred tofu: Use a box grater over the tray to shred into long strands.
3. Season tofu: Toss shreds with tamari, rice vinegar, cornstarch, sesame seeds, and oil.
4. Bake tofu: Spread in one layer; bake ~15 minutes. Flip and bake 5–8 more minutes until golden and crisp.

Step Block 2 — Broth & Finish

5. Sauté aromatics: Heat oil in a pot over medium-low. Cook onion with salt until soft.
6. Add ginger & garlic: Stir in ginger slices, garlic, Fresno pepper, and white scallions until fragrant.
7. Simmer with mushrooms: Add dried shiitake and hot water. Bring to a boil, then simmer 15 minutes.
8. Mix miso: Whisk miso with a little hot broth and sesame oil until smooth.
9. Blend broth: Remove mushrooms, then blend soup until silky. Stir in lemon zest + juice and scallion greens.
10. Serve: Place rice in bowls, ladle broth around it, and top with crispy sesame tofu.

Helpful Tips

• Never boil miso — add it at the end so it stays vibrant and flavorful.
• Press tofu well before shredding for better crispiness.
• Spread tofu in one layer so it bakes evenly.
• Taste before serving: adjust salt and lemon for brightness.

Substitutions & Variations

• Swap tofu: Use crispy shredded mushrooms & edamame instead.
• Change the base: Replace rice with quinoa or noodles.
• Add greens: Baby spinach or bok choy stirred in at the end.
• No heat: Omit Fresno pepper.

What to Serve With It

• Steamed bok choy or broccoli
• Quick cucumber salad
• Pickled vegetables (like radish or kimchi)
• Green tea or citrus water

Leftovers & Storage

• Refrigerator: Store broth and tofu separately in airtight containers for 4–5 days.
• Freezer: Freeze the broth only (tofu crisps soften when frozen).
• Reheat: Warm broth on the stove; re-crisp tofu in the oven or air fryer before serving.

FAQs

Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes — use gluten-free tamari.

Do I have to use dried mushrooms?
Dried shiitake add the best depth, but fresh mushrooms work too.

Why lemon?
The brightness cuts through the savory richness and lifts the flavors.

Can I prep ahead?
Yes — make broth ahead and finish with miso and toppings just before serving.

Can I use white miso instead?
Absolutely — white miso is milder and sweeter.

Conclusion

This Ginger Miso Brothy Soup with Crispy Sesame Tofu is a bowl you’ll reach for again and again. With layered umami, bright citrus notes, and contrasting textures, it’s comforting and nourishing for any season. Warm yourself up with a bowl tonight!

Full Recipe

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