Soba Noodles with Miso Broth

Ingredients

• 8 ounces shiitake mushrooms
• 9 cups fat-free, less-sodium chicken broth
• 1 (5-inch) piece peeled fresh ginger, sliced
• 1 whole garlic head, peeled and crushed
• 3 tablespoons yellow miso (soybean paste)
• 1 (14-ounce) package extrafirm tofu, drained and diced
• 1 tablespoon dark sesame oil
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper
• 12 ounces buckwheat soba noodles
• 1 1/2 cups shredded napa (Chinese) cabbage
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots
• 1/2 cup finely sliced green onions
• 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds

Preparation

1. Remove stems from mushrooms. Reserve stems. Slice mushroom caps into (1/4-inch) julienne strips; set aside.
2. Combine stems, broth, ginger, and garlic in a large saucepan; bring to a boil. Reduce heat, and simmer 15 minutes. Strain broth through a sieve into a bowl; discard solids. Add miso to broth, stirring well with a whisk. Add tofu. Cover and keep warm.
3. Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced mushrooms caps and pepper to pan; sauté 3 minutes or until browned. Add to broth mixture.
4. Cook noodles according to package directions, omitting salt and fat. Drain and rinse with cold water; drain.
5. Place 2/3 cup noodles into each of 6 shallow bowls; pour 1 1/2 cups hot broth mixture over each serving. Garnish each serving with 1/4 cup cabbage, about 1 1/2 tablespoons carrots, about 1 1/2 tablespoons onions, and 1 teaspoon sesame seeds.