Zen Minestrone Soup

Reimagining the Italian staple with the Japanese principles of shojin-ryori in mind, this brothy soup is light and refreshing, yet wholly satisfying thanks to a rich plate of deep flavors, varied textures, vibrant colors, and ample umami.

Recipe & photo by: Hannah Kaminsky https://bittersweetblog.com/2021/07/26/japanese-minestrone/

Inspired Vegan

Traditional

Vegitable

Ingredients (4 - 6 SERVINGS) (30 minutes (+Rehydration time))

Water 2 Cups
Dried Shiitake Mushrooms 1 Ounce
Olive Oil 1 Tbsp
Toasted Sesame Oil 1 tsp
Carrots, Peeled, Quartered, and Thinly Sliced 2
Stalks Celery, Diced 2
Medium Zucchini, Diced 1
Salt 1/2 tsp
Ground Black Pepper 1/4 tsp
White Miso Paste 3 Tbsp
Shiitake soaking water 4 Cups
Dry Small Pasta, Such as Orzo, Ditalini, Mini Shells or Elbow Macaroni 3/4 Cup
Tomato, Diced 1 Large
Snap Peas or Snow Peas, Cut into 1/2-Inch Lengths 1 Cup
Shelled Edamame 1 Cup
Yuzu or Lemon Juice 1 Tbsp
Fresh Shiso or Basil Leaves, Thinly Sliced 8

Steps

Begin by soaking the dried shiitake in 2 cups of water overnight, and ideally for 24 hours before beginning. Cover with plastic wrap so that it touches the surface of the water and store in the fridge.

Once rehydrated, remove the mushrooms but reserve the water. Slice the caps and dice the stems; set aside.

In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil an sesame oil over medium heat before adding the carrots, celery, and zucchini. Saute until softened and aromatic; about 8 - 10 minutes.

Add the mushrooms and season with salt and pepper, stirring well to incorporate.

Whisk together the reserved shiitake soaking water with the miso paste, making sure the miso is fully dissolved. Pour the mixture into the saucepan along with the vegetable broth. Add the pasta, tomato, snap peas or snow peas, and edamame.

Cove the pot with the lid and gently simmer for 10 - 12 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and the pasta is al dente.

Turn off the heat and stir in the yuzu or lemon juice. Top with fresh shiso or basil and serve right away.

Point

Dried Shiitake mushrooms should be rehydrated in cold water to make them sweeter and tastier without any messy taste.

How to Rehydrate Dried Shiitake Mushrooms for Maximum Flavor

Quick and easy rehydration for dried Shiitake

Why does dried Shiitake make food taste better?