Spicy Miso Carrot Soup: A Comforting Bowl with an Umami Kick

On those days when you crave something nourishing, vibrant, and soul-warming, a big bowl of Spicy Miso Carrot Soup hits all the right notes. It’s deeply flavorful, silky smooth, and surprisingly filling thanks to a savory blend of miso, ginger, garlic, and roasted carrots, brought to life with just the right amount of heat. Topped with sautéed mushrooms, sesame seeds, and fresh herbs, this isn’t just soup it’s an experience in every spoonful.

What Is Spicy Miso Carrot Soup?

Spicy Miso Carrot Soup is a plant-based soup made from roasted carrots blended with miso paste, garlic, onion, and ginger, then simmered into a rich, velvety broth. It’s finished with optional toppings like mushrooms, herbs, and sesame seeds to enhance texture and flavor.

This soup draws inspiration from Japanese and Korean flavors, combining the umami depth of fermented miso with the sweetness of carrots and a spicy chili heat. It’s a wholesome comfort food with a globally-inspired twist.

this Recipe

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Recipe

This soup goes beyond the ordinary in every way:

• Naturally creamy without any dairy
• Deep umami richness from miso and soy sauce
• Bright & warming spices like ginger, garlic, and chili flakes
• Easy to customize with toppings or add-ins
• Meal-prep friendly and freezer-safe

If you love bold, cozy flavors and nourishing bowls, this soup will become a new cold-weather staple.

How Does It Taste?

Every bite is rich and layered:

• The carrots offer natural sweetness and silkiness
• The miso paste brings a savory, salty umami kick
• Ginger and garlic add warmth and depth
• A hint of spice balances the sweetness beautifully
• Toppings like sautéed mushrooms, sesame seeds, and herbs add texture, crunch, and freshness

It’s the kind of soup that makes you feel cozy, clear-headed, and satisfied, all at once.

Health & Ingredient Benefits

This soup is as good for your body as it is for your taste buds:

• Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, vitamin A, and antioxidants
• Miso contains probiotics that support gut health
• Ginger and garlic are anti-inflammatory and immunity-boosting
• Vegetable broth is hydrating and helps detoxify
• Low in calories but high in flavor and nutrients

Perfect for supporting your immune system and digestive health—especially during the colder months.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what goes into this flavorful bowl:

• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 small yellow onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 5 large carrots, peeled and chopped
• 1 tablespoon white miso paste
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional toppings:

• Sautéed mushrooms
• Chopped cilantro or green onion
• Toasted sesame seeds
• Extra chili flakes or chili oil

Tools You’ll Need

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Blender or immersion blender
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Small sauté pan for toppings

Optional Substitutions & Additions

This soup is flexible—here’s how to make it your own:

• No miso? Use a splash of soy sauce and nutritional yeast for similar umami.
• Add protein: Tofu cubes or edamame are excellent additions.
• Add creaminess: Stir in a splash of coconut milk for a silky finish.
• Make it spicier: Add sriracha, gochujang, or a whole chili.
• More veggies: Blend in roasted red pepper, sweet potato, or butternut squash.

How to Make Spicy Miso Carrot Soup

1. Sauté aromatics: In a large pot, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic and ginger: Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add carrots and broth: Toss in the chopped carrots. Add vegetable broth, soy sauce, red pepper flakes, and bring to a simmer.
4. Simmer and soften: Cover and simmer for 20–25 minutes until carrots are fork-tender.
5. Add miso: Turn off the heat. In a separate bowl, whisk miso paste with a bit of hot broth until dissolved. Stir into the soup.
6. Blend: Use an immersion blender or transfer to a blender in batches until smooth.
7. Season: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or heat as needed.
8. Top and serve: Ladle into bowls and top with mushrooms, herbs, sesame seeds, or chili oil.

What to Serve With Miso Carrot Soup

Complement this soup with:

• Steamed jasmine rice or brown rice
• A soft-boiled or jammy egg
• Kimchi or pickled vegetables
• Garlic toast or flatbread
• Seaweed snacks or crispy tofu cubes

Tips for Success

• Roast the carrots (optional): For extra depth, roast carrots at 400°F for 25 minutes before adding.
• Dissolve miso separately: Avoid boiling miso directly it kills its probiotics.
• Adjust spice to taste: Start small you can always add more heat.
• Blend well: A smooth texture brings out the richness of the broth.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Boiling miso: Always add it off-heat to preserve its flavor and benefits.
• Undercooking carrots: Make sure they’re completely soft before blending.
• Over-salting: Miso and soy sauce are salty taste before adding extra.
• Not blending enough: You want it silky, not chunky.

How to Store & Reheat

• Store: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Reheat: Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling after adding miso.
• Freeze: Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in fridge and reheat gently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! The flavor gets even better after a day in the fridge.

Is this soup vegan and gluten-free?
Yes just use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version.

What type of miso should I use?
White or yellow miso is best for a milder flavor. Red miso is stronger and saltier.

Can I use pre-cut carrots or baby carrots?
Absolutely just chop them smaller to ensure even cooking.

Nutritional Info (approximate per serving, based on 4 servings)

• Calories: 160
• Total Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 21g
• Sugar: 8g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 4g
• Sodium: 640mg

Conclusion

This Spicy Miso Carrot Soup is a nourishing bowl of comfort with a fiery twist. It’s bold, creamy, and completely plant-based, making it the perfect meal for chilly days or anytime you need something soul-soothing and satisfying. Easy to make, endlessly customizable, and freezer-friendly once you try it, you’ll always want a batch on hand. Warm, spicy, and full of flavor this is not your average carrot soup.

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August 24, 2025 by Melissa