Shiitake Mushroom & Soba Noodle Soup

In Asian cultures, noodles are a symbol of longevity as evident by their seamlessly long length.  On birthdays, it is tradition to have the celebrant eat a noodle dish to ensure a long and healthy life.  It is also tradition to eat noodles at the turn of the new year to attain those benefits as well.  So in honor of the new year (2011 - even though we're heading into February already!) and Chinese New Year, here is a delicious recipe using Soba noodles and another food associated with longevity, Shiitake mushrooms.

Shiitake Mushroom & Soba Noodle Soup 
(Serves 4- 6, Prep Time 15minutes, Cook Time 30-45minutes)

Shiitake Mushroom & Soba Noodle Soup

1/2 yellow onion (sliced)
3-4 garlic cloves (sliced)
1-2 celery stalks (chopped)
2 1/2 cups Shiitake mushrooms (sliced)
1 Tbs ginger (sliced)
1/2 napa cabbage (thinly sliced)
olive oil
4-5 cups water
6 oz. package of Soba noodles (buckwheat)
1 Tbs miso paste
pepper (for seasoning)

1.  In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.  Add the onions, garlic, ginger, & celery and saute until fragrant.
2.  Add 3/4 of the Shiitake mushrooms and saute until soft and caramelized.
3.  Add water and the remainder of the mushrooms and bring to a boil.  Reduce heat to a simmer and allow to boil for about 20 - 30minutes to create the broth.
4.  Add soba noodles and allow the noodles to cook through. 
5.  When noodles are cooked, stir in the miso paste and allow it to incorporate into the soup. 
6.  Just before serving, add the napa cabbage to the soup.  Season with pepper and add more miso if you'd like.  For even more flavor, try adding a teaspoon of 5-spice power, which is a blend of fennel, star anise, ginger, licorice root, cinnamon, and cloves. 
7.  Enjoy!

The photo posted above also shows Zesty Orange Pork - recipe will come soon! Stay tuned!

In health,

Lesley