This Immune-Boosting Miso Soup is a warm, nourishing bowl of comfort designed to support your body and soothe your senses. Brimming with nutrient-dense ingredients like garlic, ginger, leafy greens, mushrooms, and miso paste, it’s a flavorful and wholesome dish that promotes overall wellness. With its light yet satisfying broth and umami depth, this soup is perfect for colder months or anytime your body needs a gentle reset.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This soup is a simple yet powerful recipe that comes together quickly and provides impressive nutritional benefits. Miso is rich in probiotics and supports gut health, while garlic and ginger are known for their anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties. With no dairy, gluten, or heavy fats, it’s a clean, plant-based meal you can feel good about. It’s also versatile, making it easy to adapt to your personal preferences or dietary needs.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 tablespoon sesame oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
1/2 cup sliced mushrooms (shiitake or cremini)
1 carrot, sliced
4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
2 tablespoons white or yellow miso paste
1 tablespoon tamari or soy sauce
1 cup chopped spinach or kale
1 green onion, sliced
Optional: tofu cubes or shredded chicken

directions

In a medium pot, heat sesame oil over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Add the sliced mushrooms and carrots. Cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are slightly softened.
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
In a small bowl, whisk the miso paste with a few spoonfuls of warm broth until smooth and dissolved. Stir the mixture back into the pot.
Add the tamari and chopped spinach or kale. Simmer gently for another 2–3 minutes until greens are wilted.
Remove from heat, add the green onions, and stir.
Serve hot. Add tofu or shredded chicken if using, for extra protein.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4 bowls
Calories per serving: 120 kcal

Variations

Add Protein: Include tofu cubes, shredded chicken, or edamame for added protein.
Spicy Boost: Stir in a dash of chili flakes or a spoonful of chili garlic sauce for a warming kick.
Grain Addition: Add cooked rice, soba noodles, or quinoa for a heartier bowl.
More Vegetables: Include bok choy, napa cabbage, or zucchini for added texture and nutrients.
Different Miso: Use red miso for a deeper, saltier flavor, or stick with white/yellow miso for a milder taste.

storage/reheating

Store leftover miso soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat. Avoid boiling the soup after the miso has been added, as high heat can destroy its beneficial probiotics. Add fresh greens or toppings before serving for the best texture and flavor.

FAQs

Is miso soup good for your immune system?

Yes, miso soup contains probiotics from fermented miso paste, as well as garlic, ginger, and leafy greens—all known for supporting immune health.

Can I make this miso soup ahead of time?

Yes, the soup can be made ahead and stored in the fridge. Add delicate greens or proteins just before serving for the best results.

Is this miso soup vegan?

Yes, this recipe is completely plant-based and vegan-friendly when using vegetable broth and omitting animal-based add-ins.

Can I use red miso instead of white or yellow?

You can substitute red miso for a stronger, saltier flavor. Use slightly less, as it’s more concentrated.

Does miso soup help with digestion?

Yes, thanks to miso’s probiotics and the presence of fiber-rich vegetables, this soup can support healthy digestion.

How do I dissolve miso paste properly?

Whisk it into a small amount of warm (not boiling) broth until smooth before adding it to the pot to avoid clumps.

Is miso soup gluten-free?

When made with gluten-free tamari and certified gluten-free miso, this soup is suitable for a gluten-free diet.

What type of mushrooms are best for this recipe?

Shiitake mushrooms offer rich umami flavor, while cremini mushrooms are a great and easily available alternative.

Can I freeze miso soup?

It’s best not to freeze miso soup, as freezing can alter the texture of the miso and vegetables. Fresh preparation is ideal.

What can I serve with miso soup?

It pairs well with rice, steamed dumplings, or a simple cucumber salad for a balanced meal.

Conclusion

Immune-Boosting Miso Soup is a comforting, nutrient-rich bowl that brings together wellness and flavor in one easy recipe. With the soothing warmth of ginger and garlic, the depth of umami from miso and mushrooms, and the vibrancy of fresh greens, it’s an excellent dish for anytime your body needs nourishment. Quick to prepare, endlessly adaptable, and deeply satisfying—this is a soup worth adding to your weekly rotation.