November 11, 2023
Since it's soup season, here are some quick and easy ways to infuse your favorite soup recipes with the rich and unique flavor of Japanese black vinegar, known as 'kurozu' in Japanese. This versatile ingredient can elevate your soups, adding a delightful depth of flavor to your warm and comforting bowls.
Miso Soup with Black Vinegar
Make a classic miso soup by dissolving miso paste in hot dashi (Japanese broth).
Add sliced mushrooms, tofu cubes, and thinly sliced green onions.
Just before serving, stir in a teaspoon of Japanese black vinegar to add a tangy twist to the soup.
Hot and Sour Soup
Create a hot and sour soup base using chicken or vegetable broth.
Add ingredients like sliced shiitake mushrooms, tofu, bamboo shoots, and thinly sliced pork or chicken.
Season the soup with soy sauce, sesame oil, and a dash of Japanese black vinegar to achieve the desired balance of flavors.
Black Vinegar Pork Belly Soup
Simmer pork belly slices in a broth made with water, soy sauce, and ginger until the meat is tender.
Add vegetables like bok choy, corn, and mushrooms to the broth.
Just before serving, drizzle Japanese black vinegar over the individual bowls to enhance the flavor.
Seaweed and Tofu Soup
Soak dried seaweed (wakame) in water until it softens, then drain and chop it.
Bring vegetable or seafood broth to a boil and add chopped seaweed, cubed tofu, and a few drops of Japanese black vinegar.
Season with soy sauce and a touch of sesame oil for extra depth of flavor.
Chicken Noodle Soup with a Twist
Make a chicken noodle soup with your choice of noodles, chicken broth, and shredded chicken.
Add some sliced shiitake mushrooms, baby spinach, and a drizzle of Japanese black vinegar to the soup for a unique flavor profile.
Vegetable Udon Soup
Cook udon noodles in vegetable broth until they're tender.
Add a variety of sliced vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and spinach.
Season the soup with soy sauce and a touch of Japanese black vinegar to create a savory and tangy broth.
Remember that Japanese black vinegar can be quite strong, so start with a small amount and adjust to your taste preferences. It adds a delightful tangy note to soups, enhancing their overall flavor profile. Enjoy your homemade Japanese-inspired soups!