The Pantry Ingredient That Will Revolutionize Your Potato Chip Dip

Why instant miso soup is an innovative dip ingredient

Instant miso soup is precisely what its name implies — a soup that can be prepared in no time! It typically comes in one or two packets: one containing the powdered miso base and sometimes another with freeze-dried ingredients like vegetables, tofu, and wakame (a type of edible seaweed). When hot water is added, these ingredients rehydrate, resulting in a steaming bowl of deliciousness. In addition to fermented soybeans, many soup mixes also feature green onions and powdered bonito (finely ground smoked and dried tuna). Since these components are dehydrated, they pack a concentrated flavor punch, enhancing your dip significantly.

Miso is a fermented paste made from soybeans, salt, and koji (a mold usually derived from rice that enhances flavor), yielding a rich, earthy, and deeply savory taste that has been a staple in Japanese cuisine for ages. Over the years, it has found unexpected applications, including in instant mashed potatoes, pasta dishes like buttered noodles, and even baking. Thus, incorporating miso into your next dip, even in its instant soup form, is a logical choice. Additionally, instant miso soup is a pantry essential for many, and like other instant soups, it boasts a notably long shelf life (some brands can last for several years).

Tips for making instant miso soup dip

Preparing a bowl of instant miso soup dip is incredibly simple—just mix the sachet of powdered soup (and any additional ingredient sachet, if included) with your chosen base. It’s best to combine the soup sachet first before adding the second sachet and mixing again. If you don’t have powdered miso soup available or can’t find it in stores, you can substitute it with regular miso paste mixed with a bit of water. Just remember to taste as you go!

For the base, sour cream or Greek yogurt works best, but plain unsweetened yogurt is also a good option. You might even consider incorporating some mayonnaise. If you have access to pricier or less common ingredients like labneh, that could work as well. If you want to break away from traditional dip options, try experimenting with hummus or avocado, both of which have a creamy texture that complements miso's distinct umami flavor.

To elevate your dip, don’t skimp on the toppings. Stay on theme by adding nori powder, crumbled nori sheets, or nori chips if you have them (these can also be served alongside potato chips). Other delicious options include garlic flakes, black sesame seeds, and fried shallots. Now, all that’s left to do is enjoy!