Carrot Miso Soup has been a cherished recipe in my kitchen for years. I remember the first time I tasted it during a chilly winter evening at a cozy Japanese restaurant. The aroma of carrot miso broth wafted through the air, making my mouth water in anticipation. The rich combination of tender carrots, ginger, and the umami notes from white miso left me captivated. This vegan carrot miso soup recipe is not only comforting but also incredibly nutritious, making it a perfect choice for any season. With its creamy texture and delicate flavor, it has become a staple in my home. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Carrot Miso Soup
- Quick preparation time – ready in just 30 minutes!
- Rich in nutrients, making it a healthy carrot miso soup recipe.
- Simple ingredients that you likely already have on hand.
- Perfectly vegan and gluten-free, catering to various dietary needs.
- Versatile variations allow you to customize it to your taste.
- Children love it – a great way to sneak in veggies!
- Delicious and comforting, ideal for cold weather.
- Use as a base for a miso carrot stew or add proteins like tofu for an extra boost.
Ingredients for Carrot Miso Soup
Here’s everything you need for this delightful soup:
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil – adds a nutty flavor
- 2 – 2 1/2 lbs. carrots, peeled and chopped – the star of the soup
- 1 large onion, diced – for sweetness and depth
- 4 garlic cloves, minced – for aroma
- 1 1/2 tablespoons fresh ginger, finely grated – adds warmth and spice
- 4 cups water or vegetable broth – the soup base
- 1/4 cup white miso paste – provides umami richness
- 2 – 4 oz. organic silken tofu, thin sliced into 1 inch pieces (optional) – for added creaminess and protein
- Cayenne pepper as garnish, to taste – for a spicy kick
- Scallions or chives, thinly sliced, for garnish – fresh flavor
How to Make Carrot Miso Soup
- Step 1: In a large dutch oven or pot, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and chopped carrots and sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften and the onions turn translucent.
- Step 2: Then add the minced garlic and freshly grated ginger, cooking for an additional 1 minute to release their aromas.
- Step 3: Pour in the water or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer gently for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the carrots are fully tender.
- Step 4: Allow the soup to cool slightly. Stir in the white miso paste. Purée the soup until smooth using your preferred method: either an immersion blender directly in the pot, or by transferring the soup in batches to a food processor or regular blender.
- Step 5: Adjust the consistency by adding a little more water if needed. Taste and season with salt as desired, especially if you used plain water instead of vegetable stock.
- Step 6: Add extra cayenne pepper or more grated ginger for additional flavor if preferred.
- Step 7: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with the thinly sliced silken tofu, a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for heat, and a garnish of fresh scallions or chives. Serve warm and enjoy!
- Step 8: Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 to 6 days. For longer storage, freeze for 2 to 3 months. Thaw completely before reheating.
Pro Tips for the Best Carrot Miso Soup
These tricks guarantee success every time:
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- Don’t rush the simmering process – it enhances the flavor.
- For a creamy carrot miso soup, blend thoroughly to achieve the desired texture.
What’s the secret to perfect Carrot Miso Soup?
The secret lies in using high-quality white miso paste. It imparts a depth of flavor that elevates the soup. A chef friend once shared this tip with me, and I guarantee it makes a difference!
Can I make Carrot Miso Soup ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the soup a day in advance and simply reheat it when you’re ready to serve. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container in the fridge.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Carrot Miso Soup?
Avoid overcooking the carrots, as they can become mushy. Also, remember to add the miso paste only after removing the soup from heat to preserve its beneficial probiotics.
Best Ways to Serve Carrot Miso Soup
This soup is fantastic on its own, but you can elevate it by serving with a side of crusty bread or rice. For a more filling meal, try pairing it with a salad or a light sandwich. You can even make a gluten-free carrot miso soup by ensuring your broth and miso paste are gluten-free!
Nutrition Facts for Carrot Miso Soup
Per serving (recipe makes 4 servings):
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 8g
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 700mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
How to Store and Reheat Carrot Miso Soup
To store, allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers. It can be kept in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. If you wish to keep it longer, freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen it up.
Frequently Asked Questions About Carrot Miso Soup
Can I freeze carrot miso soup?
Absolutely! Just ensure it is in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What can I use instead of miso?
If you’re out of miso, you can use tahini or a homemade broth mixture, but the flavor will differ. Miso is key for that umami punch!
Can I add other vegetables to carrot miso soup?
Definitely! Feel free to include veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or peas. They add texture and nutrition to the soup.
How can I enhance the flavor of carrot miso soup?
Try adding a splash of soy sauce, a dash of sesame seeds, or some fresh herbs to brighten the flavor!
Variations of Carrot Miso Soup You Can Try
There are numerous ways to customize this recipe! Consider adding extra spices like cumin or coriander for a unique twist. You can also try a miso soup with carrots and tofu for added protein. For a heartier meal, prepare a miso carrot stew by incorporating lentils or chickpeas. The possibilities are endless!
Print
Heavenly Carrot Miso Soup You Can’t Resist
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This Carrot Miso Soup is a comforting, flavorful, and nutritious dish perfect for any season.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil or 1/4 cup water (for water sauté)
- 2 – 2 1/2 lbs. carrots, peeled and chopped
- 1 large onion, diced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 1/2 tablespoons fresh ginger, finely grated
- 4 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup (4 tablespoons) white miso paste
- 2 – 4 oz. organic silken tofu, thin sliced into 1 inch pieces (optional)
- Cayenne pepper as garnish, to taste
- Scallions or chives, thinly sliced, for garnish
Instructions
- In a large dutch oven or pot, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and chopped carrots and sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften and the onions turn translucent. Then add the minced garlic and freshly grated ginger, cooking for an additional 1 minute to release their aromas.
- Pour in the water or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer gently for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the carrots are fully tender.
- Allow the soup to cool slightly. Stir in the white miso paste. Purée the soup until smooth using your preferred method: either an immersion blender directly in the pot, or by transferring the soup in batches to a food processor or regular blender.
- Adjust the consistency by adding a little more water if needed. Taste and season with salt as desired, especially if you used plain water instead of vegetable stock. Add extra cayenne pepper or more grated ginger for additional flavor if preferred.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with the thinly sliced silken tofu, a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for heat, and a garnish of fresh scallions or chives. Serve warm and enjoy!
- Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 to 6 days. For longer storage, freeze for 2 to 3 months. Thaw completely before reheating.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Freeze for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Japanese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg


