Japanese Tonjiru Recipe

Tonjiru is a Japanese soup made with pork and vegetables, simmered in a dashi and soy sauce broth. The soup is often served during the colder months, as it is hearty and warm. Tonjiru contains many traditional ingredients, like daikon, carrots, and tofu, which give the soup its warm colors, subtle sweetness, and deep flavor.

This homemade version of Tonjiru utilizes basic pantry staples and is easy to make. Serve with a bowl of hot white rice and enjoy a comforting meal.

Ingredients:

• 3-4 cups dashi
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons sake
• 1 small daikon, cut into 2-inch cubes
• 1 large carrot, small slices
• 4-5 mushrooms, sliced
• ½ block rolled firm tofu, cubed
• ¼ cup pork, sliced
• 2 tablespoons mitsuba, chopped

Instructions:

• In a medium pot, combine the dashi, soy sauce, and sake. Bring to a boil over medium high heat, stirring until combined.
• Add the daikon, carrot, mushrooms, and pork. Bring back to a boil and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Add the tofu and mitsuba and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
• Turn off the heat, cover pot, and let the soup sit for 10 minutes before serving.

This comforting stew is the perfect dish to make during the cold months. Serve with hot white rice for a warming and hearty meal. Enjoy!