Rice Noodle Soup (Make-Ahead Option!)

Step 1

Sauté Aromatics: Warm the oil in a medium nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the white portion of the green onions, garlic, and ginger. Sauté for 1 minute, until fragrant.

Step 2

Cook the Mushrooms: Add the mushrooms to the pan along with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce. Mix well, then sauté for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring only every minute or so. Remove the pan from the heat once the mushrooms are beginning to brown and set aside.

Step 3

Make the Miso Broth: Add the remaining soy sauce to a medium bowl with the miso paste and 2 tablespoons of warm water. Mix well, until the miso paste has dissolved and a thick “broth” forms.

Step 4

Assemble: You will need 2 large jars or Tupperware containers that can hold at least 4 cups of liquid. Divide the miso mixture between the two jars (around 3 tbsp per jar), then top each jar off with half of the mushrooms. Mix well, so the mushrooms are submerged in the miso. Top off with tofu (if using), followed by the dry bundle of noodles and green onions. Cover and store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Step 5

Instant Noodles (1 Serving): Remove one jar from the fridge and use your stovetop or a kettle to bring 2 cups of liquid to a boil. Pour the hot water over the noodles, then over the jar and let sit for 5 minutes. Uncover, then use a chopstick or spoon to mix well, distributing the miso mixture throughout the broth. Season with additional soy sauce to taste, then enjoy warm, as-is or topped with sesame and/or chili oil.

Step 6

Aromatics: I recommend making this soup in a small pot. Follow steps 1-2 as written, but keep the pot on the heat.

Step 7

Make it Brothy: Add the tofu (if using) and 4 cups of water to the pot. Cover and bring to a simmer over high heat.

Step 8

Add the Noodles: Once simmering, uncover the pot turn the heat to medium low. Add the vermicelli noodles and simmer until al dente, according to the package instructions.

Step 9

Miso Broth: In the meantime, whisk the remaining soy sauce, miso paste, and water together in a small bowl until emulsified.

Step 10

Final Touches: Uncover the pot, then add in the miso sauce and mix well. Add additional soy sauce to taste, if necessary. Divide between bowls and garnish with the green portion of the green onions along with any other toppings, as desired.