Benihana Onion Soup Recipe

When it comes to Japanese teppanyaki dining, Benihana stands out as an iconic restaurant chain that brings the sizzle and fun right to the table. One of the most loved appetizers on the menu is their signature Onion Soup. It’s a simple yet flavorful start to a meal, made with a clear broth, delicate seasonings, and of course, a generous helping of onions. Whether you’ve dined at a Benihana or just heard people rave about their soup, you know it has that unique quality that makes it unforgettable.

If you’re looking to recreate this mouthwatering dish at home, you’re in luck. We’re going to walk you through how to make Benihana Onion Soup from scratch, using ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. This recipe is all about flavor, ease, and the experience of bringing a taste of Benihana to your own kitchen.

So, grab your apron, because it’s time to make that flavorful onion soup that will remind you of your favorite hibachi experience!

This copycat Benihana Onion Soup recipe is surprisingly easy to make, and the result is a rich, savory soup with a delicate onion flavor that will transport you straight to the hibachi grill. It’s not just about following the steps; it’s about the experience of creating this comforting and aromatic dish right at home.

Ingredients Needed

Let’s break down the key ingredients for this recipe. Each one plays a significant role in bringing out the depth of flavor that makes this soup so special.

Yellow Onions – The star of the show! Yellow onions are ideal here because they’re sweeter and more mild compared to other types of onions. They release just the right amount of flavor for a base that isn’t overpowering.
Butter – Used to sauté the onions and add richness. You’ll need just enough to cook them down to a soft, caramelized consistency, adding a subtle sweetness to the broth.
Beef Broth – This is your foundation. The richness of beef broth (preferably low-sodium) adds depth and umami to the soup. Some people use a combination of beef and chicken broth, but beef is the traditional choice.
Soy Sauce – For that savory, umami flavor that rounds out the broth. A splash of soy sauce also adds a slight saltiness to balance the sweetness of the onions.
Garlic – Just a little bit of minced garlic helps to deepen the flavor profile, adding an aromatic base note that complements the onions perfectly.
Mushroom Powder – This ingredient adds an earthy, umami-rich layer to the soup. You can find mushroom powder in specialty food stores or substitute it with powdered mushroom bouillon cubes if needed.
Salt & Pepper – These are essential for seasoning the soup. Don’t forget to taste as you go, adjusting the salt and pepper for the perfect balance.
Scallions – These will act as a garnish, offering a burst of fresh flavor and color when added to the soup just before serving.

Cooking Instructions

Now, let’s get to the fun part-actually making the soup! Follow these steps, and you’ll have a bowl of Benihana-style onion soup in no time.

Prep the Onions: Start by peeling and slicing your onions into thin half-rings. You want them to break down easily in the soup, so thin slices are ideal.
Sauté the Onions: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook them, stirring occasionally, until they soften and turn golden brown. This usually takes about 15 minutes. Patience here is key-caramelizing the onions brings out their natural sweetness and creates that deep, rich flavor.
Add Garlic: Once the onions are beautifully caramelized, add the minced garlic and sauté for another 2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Build the Broth: Pour in the beef broth, followed by the soy sauce and mushroom powder. Stir everything together, ensuring that the ingredients are well combined. Bring the soup to a simmer and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Season: Taste the broth and adjust the seasoning. Add salt and pepper as needed. If you want a little more depth, a few extra dashes of soy sauce or a splash of Worcestershire sauce could be added.
Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls, and garnish with freshly sliced scallions. You can also top it with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or a dash of hot sauce if you’re feeling adventurous.

Ingredient Insights

Each ingredient in this recipe isn’t just thrown in randomly-it plays a vital role in achieving the right flavor balance.

Yellow Onions: The foundation of the soup, yellow onions give a sweet, mild flavor that’s perfect for the broth. Cooking them slowly in butter ensures that they caramelize, which intensifies their natural sugars and adds a depth of flavor that’s crucial for this dish.
Beef Broth: Beef broth is rich, savory, and full of umami, which makes it the perfect base for this soup. If you want to make it even more special, you could use homemade broth, but store-bought works just as well and saves time.
Mushroom Powder: This is the secret weapon in the recipe. It adds an extra layer of earthiness to the soup, intensifying the umami and giving the broth that deep, satisfying taste.
Soy Sauce: While it’s not the dominant flavor in the soup, soy sauce is essential for adding that salty, umami punch. It enhances the overall savory taste of the broth without overpowering it.

Expert Tips

Sautéing Time: Don’t rush the caramelization of the onions. The longer you cook them (without burning them), the sweeter and more flavorful they’ll become. The browning is what gives this soup its distinct taste.
Adjust the Broth: If you prefer a lighter soup, you can use chicken broth instead of beef broth. However, beef broth will give you a more authentic, richer flavor. You can also add a splash of mirin for a touch of sweetness if desired.
Vegetarian Version: To make a vegetarian version of this soup, simply substitute vegetable broth for the beef broth and omit any meat-based seasonings, like mushroom powder or Worcestershire sauce. It will still be delicious!
Garnishes: To take it up a notch, you can add thin slices of mushrooms, a drizzle of sesame oil, or even some crispy fried onions on top for texture and extra flavor.

Recipe Variations

While this Benihana Onion Soup recipe is delicious as it is, there are a few ways you can tweak it to suit your taste or dietary needs.

Spicy Version: Add a dash of chili flakes or a few slices of fresh jalapeño to give the soup a spicy kick. It’s a great way to balance the sweetness of the onions with some heat.
Creamy Version: For a creamier texture, you can blend the soup until smooth. Then, stir in a little heavy cream or coconut milk for a velvety finish. This turns the soup into more of a creamy onion bisque.
Asian-Inspired Twist: Add a small splash of rice vinegar or a dash of sesame oil to bring in some more Asian flavors. You could even top the soup with crispy wonton strips for some crunch.

Final Words

Making Benihana Onion Soup at home is not only a rewarding experience but also an opportunity to enjoy the iconic flavors of your favorite hibachi grill without having to leave the house. With just a handful of ingredients and a bit of patience, you can recreate this classic dish that is both simple and deeply flavorful.

The rich, savory broth combined with the sweetness of the onions creates a perfect balance that’s perfect for warming up on a chilly evening or starting a festive dinner. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a solo meal, this recipe will transport you to the hibachi table in no time.

Benihana Onion Soup Recipe