- **Aka Miso (Red Miso):** The primary flavoring ingredient, giving the soup its rich umami taste.
- **Wakame Seaweed:** Soaked in warm water to soften before adding to the soup for a delicate, salty flavor and texture.
- **Tofu Cubes:** Soft tofu cut into cubes to add a mild, smooth texture; best when marinated briefly with soy sauce or miso.
- **Green Onions (Scallions):** Finely chopped for garnish, providing freshness and a pop of color.
- **Mirin:** A sweet rice wine that adds depth to the soup's flavor profile.
- **Soy Sauce:** For an extra layer of umami and saltiness; can be adjusted according to taste preference.
- **Water or Vegetable Broth:** The base liquid to dilute the miso, creating a smoother consistency.
- **Green Beans:** Cut into bite-sized pieces for added nutrition and texture.
- **Garlic Cloves:** Sautéed lightly until fragrant to enhance the overall flavor of the soup.
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Steps
### How to Make Aka Miso Summer Soup: A Refreshing Japanese Delight
**Aka Miso Summer Soup**, also known as *Nigori Akamiso Shōyu* in Japanese, is a delicious and refreshing miso soup that combines the rich flavor of red miso with the lightness of summer ingredients. Perfect for hot days or anytime you want to enjoy a lighter version of this beloved Japanese dish.
- A handful of wakame seaweed (soaked in cold water for about 5 minutes), chopped
- Salt to taste
#### Step-by-Step Instructions
1. **Prepare the Aka Miso Soup Base:**
- In a medium-sized pot, mix *Aka Miso* with 2 cups of water until smooth.
- Heat the mixture over low heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Do not boil to avoid breaking down the miso.
2. **Add Vegetables and Mushrooms:**
- Add finely chopped mitsuba and sliced shiitake mushrooms into the pot.
- Stir gently to combine and let cook for another 3-4 minutes until vegetables are slightly tender.
3. **Incorporate Zucchini and Wakame Seaweed:**
- Add diced zucchini to the soup and let it cook for about 2 more minutes.
- Finally, add chopped wakame seaweed and stir well. Let everything simmer for another minute.
4. **Season with Soy Sauce:**
- Pour in soy sauce and mix thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
5. **Final Touches:**
- Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve immediately while hot, garnishing with additional mitsuba leaves for a burst of freshness.
#### Tips and Tricks
- *Aka Miso*: This miso is made from fermented soybeans and rice koji, resulting in a rich and sweet flavor. It's perfect for summer soups as it provides the necessary depth without overpowering the lightness.
- *Mitsuba*: Often called Japanese parsley, this herb adds a unique, anise-like flavor and crisp texture to your soup. You can find it at Asian grocery stores or online.
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By following these detailed steps, you can enjoy a refreshing and flavorful *Aka Miso Summer Soup* that will surely become a staple in your summer meal planning. Perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying solo on a warm day!