So you went to Benihana, sat down, and before the big sizzling show even started, they brought out that little bowl of clear soup. You took one sip and thought, “Wait… why is this so good?” Same.
This Benihana Onion Soup looks simple. Almost too simple. But somehow it tastes warm, rich, and comforting in a way that makes you want a second bowl. And a third. It’s light, savory, and perfect before a big meal or all on its own.
The good news? You don’t need a hibachi grill or a chef flipping shrimp into his hat to make it. This Benihana Onion Soup recipe uses basic ingredients and easy steps. No fancy skills. No long cooking time. Just real flavor, right at home.
Why This Recipe Is Awesome
Let’s talk about why this soup deserves a spot in your regular rotation.
What Makes Benihana Onion Soup So Special
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Light but full of flavor
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Quick to make with simple steps
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Easy on the stomach
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Perfect starter soup for any meal
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Tastes just like the restaurant version
It’s also very forgiving. You don’t need perfect knife skills or exact timing. If you can slice onions and simmer broth, you’re already winning. IMO, this soup is proof that simple food can still feel special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This is not a long list. That’s part of the magic.
Main Ingredients
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Onions – Thinly sliced. They are the star.
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Butter – Adds richness and flavor.
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Chicken broth – The base of the soup.
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Garlic – Just a little for depth.
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Soy sauce – Adds that savory umami taste.
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Salt – Go easy at first.
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Black pepper – Simple seasoning.
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Green onions – For garnish and freshness.
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Mushrooms – Optional, but very traditional.
That’s it. No secret powders. No mystery bottles.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Take your time. This soup is all about gentle cooking.
How to Make Benihana Onion Soup
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Slice the onions
Cut them thin. Even slices help them cook evenly. -
Melt the butter
Use a pot over medium heat. Don’t rush this part.
Easy to Make Benihana Onion Soup Recipes -
Cook the onions
Add onions to the pot. Stir often. Cook until soft, not brown. -
Add garlic
Cook for about 30 seconds. Keep it gentle. -
Pour in the broth
Add chicken broth slowly. Stir well.
Easy to Make Benihana Onion Soup Recipes -
Season the soup
Add soy sauce, salt, and black pepper. -
Add mushrooms
Let them simmer until tender. -
Simmer and relax
Let the soup cook for 15–20 minutes.
Easy to Make Benihana Onion Soup Recipes -
Taste and adjust
Add more seasoning if needed. -
Serve hot
Top with green onions and enjoy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
This soup is easy, but let’s not sabotage it.
Things That Can Ruin the Soup
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Burning the onions
Brown onions change the flavor. -
Too much soy sauce
This soup should be light, not salty. -
Using low-quality broth
The broth matters here. A lot. -
Rushing the simmer
Flavor needs time to develop.
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Overloading ingredients
Keep it simple. That’s the point.
Alternatives and Substitutions
Missing something? No panic.
Easy Swaps
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Vegetable broth instead of chicken broth
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Olive oil instead of butter
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Shiitake mushrooms for deeper flavor
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Low-sodium soy sauce if needed
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Add ginger for extra warmth
You can adjust this soup easily without breaking it.
Helpful Tips
Little details make a big difference.
Simple Tips That Help
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Slice onions thin and even
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Use good-quality broth
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Taste before adding more salt
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Keep the heat medium, not high
Expert Tips for the Best Results
Want restaurant-style flavor? Do this.
Pro-Level Advice
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Simmer uncovered for cleaner taste
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Skim foam if it appears
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Let soup rest 5 minutes before serving
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Use white onions for authentic flavor
These small steps really help.
Serving Suggestions
This soup plays well with others.
What to Serve With It
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Fried rice
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Hibachi-style chicken or steak
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Steamed vegetables
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Simple salad
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Sushi or spring rolls
Or drink it straight from the bowl. No rules here.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Yes, you can save leftovers.
How to Store and Reheat
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Fridge: Store up to 4 days
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Freezer: Freeze without garnish
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Reheat: Warm gently on the stove
Avoid boiling when reheating. Keep it calm.

Benihana Onion Soup Recipe
Equipment
- Medium pot
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Spoon
Ingredients
- 2 white onions thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- ½ cup sliced mushrooms
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Melt butter in a pot over medium heat.
- Add onions and cook until soft.
- Add garlic and stir briefly.
- Pour in broth and soy sauce.
- Add mushrooms and seasoning.
- Simmer 15–20 minutes and serve.
Notes
Nutritional Facts (Approx.)
Calories: 90 Carbohydrates: 7g Protein: 4g Fat: 6gFAQs Benihana Onion Soup
Is Benihana Onion Soup the same as miso soup?
No. This soup is clear and onion-based.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes. Use vegetable broth.
Why is my soup cloudy?
Your heat may be too high.
Can I add noodles?
You can, but it changes the classic style.
Does this taste like the restaurant?
Very close. Some say even better.
Can I make it ahead?
Yes. It tastes better the next day.

Final Thoughts on Benihana Onion Soup
This Benihana Onion Soup is simple, comforting, and surprisingly addictive. It proves that you don’t need complicated ingredients to make something memorable. Just patience, good broth, and a few onions.
Make it once, and you’ll understand why people crave this soup. Now go make a pot and enjoy that cozy, restaurant-style comfort at home. You’ve earned it.
