Seaweed Soup with Tofu

1. Place seaweed in a medium bowl, cover with water and let soak for 20 minutes.

2. Combine steak (if using), scallions, garlic, sesame oil and pepper in another bowl.

3. Warm a medium saucepan over high heat and add the scallion mixture. Cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in 4 cups water and miso. Reduce the heat to medium-low so the liquid does not boil. Whisk to dissolve the miso.

4. Drain the seaweed and stir it into the soup along with tofu. Cook over medium-low for about 10 minutes. Remove from the heat. Taste and season with more miso, if desired.

Tips

Tip: Look for wakame in natural-foods stores or Asian markets.

Note: Miso is fermented bean paste made from barley, rice or soybeans, and is used to add flavor to dishes such as soups, sauces and salad dressings. It is available in different colors, depending on the type of grain or bean and how long it’s been fermented. In general, the lighter the color, the milder the flavor. It will keep in the refrigerator for at least a year.