Authentic Japanese Zosui: A Comforting Rice Soup Recipe

Ingredients

5 cups Dashi Stock
2 cups cooked rice
1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded
2 eggs, beaten
1 green onion, chopped
1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
1/2 cup diced tofu
1/4 cup miso paste
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
Nori sheets, cut into strips for garnishing

Steps and instructions

Heat the Dashi Stock in a large pot over medium heat.
Add the cooked rice to the pot and stir it into the stock.
Add the shredded chicken, mushrooms and diced tofu to the pot.
In a small bowl, mix the miso paste, soy sauce, and sesame oil together, then add to the pot.
Simmer the mixture for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the ingredients are well combined and heated through.
Gradually pour in the beaten eggs, stirring constantly, until they are fully cooked and distributed throughout the soup.
Remove the pot from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
Stir in the chopped green onion and nori strips.
Serve the Zosui hot, garnished with additional green onion and nori strips if desired.

Tools for making

Large pot - for cooking the soup
Small bowl - for mixing the miso paste, soy sauce, and sesame oil
Stirring spoon - for stirring the soup and ingredients
Knife - for chopping the green onion and cutting the nori sheets

Recipe variations

Replace the chicken with cooked shrimp or beef for a different protein option.
Use vegetable broth instead of Dashi Stock for a vegetarian version.
Add vegetables such as carrots, peas, or corn for added texture and flavor.
Include different types of mushrooms, like shiitake or oyster mushrooms, to enhance the umami taste.
Experiment with different types of miso paste, such as white miso or red miso, to vary the flavor profile.
Try adding grated ginger or minced garlic for an extra kick of flavor.
Substitute the rice with cooked noodles, such as udon or soba noodles, for a different texture.
Top the Zosui with a drizzle of sesame oil or a sprinkle of furikake for added depth of flavor.
For a heartier version, add cooked diced potatoes or sweet potatoes to the soup.
Make it spicy by adding a dash of chili oil or sriracha sauce.

Recipe overview

Zosui is a comforting, hearty Japanese rice soup that's perfect for those colder months or when you're in need of some nourishing comfort food. It's a versatile dish that can use leftover rice and other ingredients, making it budget-friendly and minimising food waste. The main components of this dish are dashi stock, cooked rice, and a variety of other ingredients like chicken, tofu, and vegetables, all seasoned with a flavorful mix of miso, soy sauce, and sesame oil. You'll then add beaten eggs that cook into the soup, resulting in a slightly thick, creamy texture. The soup is finished off with a sprinkle of green onions and strips of nori for that extra touch. The result is a wonderfully warming, savory and satisfying dish that's packed full of flavor and texture. Whether you're new to Japanese cuisine or a seasoned pro, this Zosui recipe is definitely worth trying!

Common questions

Can I use vegetable stock instead of Dashi Stock? Yes, you can use vegetable stock as a substitute for Dashi Stock if you prefer a vegetarian version of Zosui.
Can I use other types of protein? Yes, you can use other types of protein such as cooked shrimp, beef, or pork instead of chicken breast. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the protein is fully cooked.
Can I add other vegetables? Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like carrots, peas, corn, or spinach to the Zosui for added flavor and nutrition.
Can I make Zosui with leftover rice? Yes, using leftover cooked rice is actually ideal for Zosui. It helps to absorb the flavors of the soup and gives it a nice texture.
Can I make Zosui without using miso paste? While miso paste adds a distinct flavor to Zosui, you can omit it if you don't have any on hand. However, note that it may alter the taste of the dish.
Can I make Zosui ahead of time? Zosui is best enjoyed fresh, but you can make it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it gently on the stove before serving.

Serving dishes and utensils

Large Pot - A large pot is needed to cook the Zosui soup.
Small Bowl - A small bowl is required to mix the miso paste, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
Stirring Spoon - A stirring spoon is necessary for stirring the ingredients in the pot.
Chopping Board - A chopping board will be used to chop the green onion and slice the nori sheets.
Sharp Knife - A sharp knife is needed to chop the green onion and slice the nori sheets.
Soup Ladle - A soup ladle is helpful for serving the Zosui soup.
Soup Bowls - Soup bowls are required for serving the Zosui soup to individual servings.

Origin stories

Zosui, a comforting rice soup, is deeply embedded in Japanese culinary traditions. It is often enjoyed as a way to utilize leftover rice and ingredients, revealing the Japanese philosophy of mottainai, which expresses regret over waste. This humble dish highlights the distinct, delicate flavors of its ingredients, with each spoonful embodying the essence of umami. Interestingly, zosui is also a popular choice for rounding off a meal in hot pot style dining, where the remaining broth rich in flavors after cooking meat and vegetables is used to cook rice, creating a satisfying and warming end to the feast. This mirrors the Japanese art of appreciating and making the most of every bit of the culinary experience, transforming simple ingredients into something profoundly delicious.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.