Zosui (Japanese Rice Soup) Recipe – Japanese Special
Zosui is a comforting Japanese rice soup that is perfect for chilly days or when you need a light yet nourishing meal. This dish is traditionally made with cooked rice simmered in a flavorful broth along with vegetables, protein, and seasonings. The result is a warm, slightly thickened soup that is easy to digest and incredibly satisfying. Often enjoyed as a soothing dish when feeling under the weather, Zosui is a simple yet delightful way to use leftover rice. Let’s dive into this easy-to-make and delicious recipe!
- Prep Time10 min
- Cook Time15 min
- Total Time25 min
For the Zosui:
- 2 cups cooked Japanese short-grain rice
- 4 cups dashi (or substitute with chicken or vegetable broth)
- 1/2 cup cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu (optional)
- 1/2 cup mushrooms (shiitake or enoki, sliced)
- 1/2 cup carrots, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon miso paste (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sake or mirin
Salt to taste
- 1 sheet nori (seaweed), cut into strips (for garnish)
- Toasted sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Prepare the Broth:
In a medium pot, bring the dashi (or broth) to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
Add soy sauce, miso paste (if using), and sake or mirin, stirring until well combined.
Cook the Vegetables and Protein:
Add the carrots and mushrooms to the simmering broth and cook for about 5 minutes until tender.
If using chicken, shrimp, or tofu, add it to the broth and cook for an additional 3 minutes.
Add the Rice:
Rinse the cooked rice under warm water to remove excess starch and prevent clumping.
Gently add the rice to the broth, stirring occasionally to break up any lumps.
Let it simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb the flavors.
Incorporate the Egg:
Slowly drizzle the beaten egg into the soup while stirring gently.
Let the egg cook for about a minute until it forms delicate ribbons.
Serve:
Remove the pot from heat and ladle the zosui into bowls.
Garnish with chopped green onions, nori strips, and toasted sesame seeds if desired.
Serve hot and enjoy this comforting Japanese rice soup.
Recipe Notes :
Rice Choice : Short-grain rice works best as it absorbs the flavors well. Leftover rice is ideal for making zosui.
Broth Variations : Dashi provides an authentic Japanese flavor, but you can use chicken or vegetable broth as an alternative.
Egg Addition : Slowly pouring the egg while stirring ensures soft, ribbon-like egg textures in the soup.
Protein Options : Chicken, shrimp, tofu, or even fish can be added for extra nutrition and taste.
Serving : Enjoy zosui on its own or pair it with pickled vegetables for a more traditional experience.
