Starry Space Miso Soup

Instructions

1. 1

   Begin by rehydrating the dried wakame in a small bowl of warm water for about 5 minutes, then drain and set aside.

2. 2

   In a large pot, bring the 4 cups of water to a gentle simmer over medium heat.

3. 3

   Add the sliced shiitake mushrooms to the simmering water and cook for 2 minutes.

4. 4

   Reduce the heat to low and carefully dissolve the miso paste in the water, making sure not to boil the soup as it can destroy the delicate flavors of the miso.

5. 5

   Add the cubed firm tofu and the rehydrated wakame to the pot and stir gently to combine.

6. 6

   Allow the soup to heat through for about 3 minutes, ensuring it does not come to a boil.

7. 7

   Stir in the sesame oil and soy sauce, then turn off the heat.

8. 8

   Serve the soup into bowls, and garnish with thinly sliced scallions and black sesame seeds sprinkled on top.

9. 9

   For the 'starry space' effect, optionally swirl in a small amount of edible glitter or a pinch of food-grade activated charcoal into each bowl just before serving.