Eel Miso Soup

Introduction

Eel Miso Soup is a Japanese classic full of flavour and nutrition. It is a light yet satisfying soup that is easy to prepare and can be enjoyed anytime. The combination of miso, dashi, and eel is unique and delicious, tantalising the taste buds. This soup is the perfect meal to enjoy during the colder months or as a light lunch or dinner. 

Ease of Preparation

Eel Miso Soup is an incredibly simple dish to make. You only need a few ingredients and a pot to cook it in. All the ingredients can be found in most grocery stores, and the entire dish can be cooked in less than 30 minutes. This makes it the perfect meal for busy days or when you don’t have much time to spend in the kitchen. 

Nutritional Information

Eel Miso Soup is a nutritious protein, vitamin, and mineral dish. One serving of Eel Miso Soup provides approximately 140 calories, 10 grams of fat, 10 grams of protein, and 3 grams of carbohydrates. It is also rich in Vitamin A, Vitamin B6, Vitamin B12, and Vitamin D. In addition; it is a great source of calcium, magnesium, and potassium. 

Ingredients

– 2 tablespoons miso paste

– 2 teaspoons soy sauce

– 2 cups dashi (or fish stock)

– 2 tablespoons sake

– 2 tablespoons mirin

– 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger

– 2 tablespoons chopped green onion

– 1/2 pound eel fillet, sliced into thin strips

– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh shiso leaves (optional)

– 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil (optional)

– Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Method

To begin, heat a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the miso paste and soy sauce and stir until combined. Then, add the dashi, sake, and mirin and boil. Once boiling, add the ginger, green onion, and eel and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Finally, add the shiso leaves, sesame oil, and salt and pepper to taste. 

Cooking Tips

When cooking Eel Miso Soup, use the freshest ingredients possible. Fresh eel is best, but if you can’t find it, the frozen eel will work just as well. Additionally, use a high-quality miso paste for the best flavour. If you use a dashi stock, read the label and make sure it is gluten-free. 

Flavour/Taste

Eel Miso Soup has a unique and delicious flavour that will tantalise your taste buds. The combination of miso, dashi, and eel creates a savoury and slightly sweet broth that is both comforting and satisfying. The eel adds a unique and somewhat smoky flavour that is complemented by the sweetness of the mirin and the saltiness of the soy sauce. 

Best Dishes Paired With

Eel Miso Soup is a great meal but also pairs well with various other dishes. Rice, noodles and steamed vegetables are great accompaniments to this soup. It also pairs nicely with grilled fish or other seafood dishes. 

Origin of Dish and History

Eel Miso Soup is a traditional Japanese dish believed to have originated in the Edo period (1603-1868). It is thought that the dish was created to use leftover eel from the day before. Over the years, the dish has evolved and is now enjoyed in many households throughout Japan. 

Popular Alternatives

There are a few popular variations if you are looking for a different take on Eel Miso Soup. One popular variation is to add mushrooms, carrots, and other vegetables to the soup. This adds a different flavour and texture to the soup, making it even more enjoyable. Another popular variation is to add a dollop of sour cream to the soup. This adds a creamy richness that is sure to please.