Tamago Zosui (卵雑炊) is a simple yet deeply comforting Japanese rice soup made with eggs. In this dish, cooked rice is gently simmered in a savory dashi broth until tender, then softly beaten eggs are swirled in to create delicate ribbons throughout the soup. The result is a warm, soothing bowl that sits somewhere between soup and porridge—light, nourishing, and incredibly satisfying.

With its mild flavor and soft texture, Tamago Zosui is perfect for any time of day. It’s especially popular when you’re feeling under the weather, low on appetite, or simply craving something gentle and easy to digest.

What is Zosui?

Zosui (雑炊), sometimes referred to as Ojiya (おじや), is a traditional Japanese rice porridge made with pre-cooked rice simmered in a dashi-based broth. Unlike some thicker rice porridges, zosui has a lighter consistency, allowing the grains of rice to remain distinct while absorbing the flavorful broth.

One of the most beloved ways to enjoy zosui is at the end of a Japanese hot pot meal (nabemono). After cooking meat, seafood, and vegetables in the pot, the remaining broth becomes richly infused with umami. Rice is added along with seasonings like soy sauce and sake, transforming the leftover broth into a final, comforting dish that concludes the meal.

That said, you don’t need a hot pot to enjoy zosui. Tamago Zosui can be made quickly from scratch using instant dashi packets, making it an ideal dish for busy days or when you want something warm without much effort.

Why You’ll Love Tamago Zosui

What makes Tamago Zosui especially appealing is its simplicity. With just a few basic ingredients—rice, egg, and broth—you can create a nourishing meal in minutes. Because it doesn’t rely on heavy proteins or rich fats, it’s light yet satisfying, and easy on the stomach.

It’s also highly versatile. While the classic version is minimal, you can easily adapt it to suit what you have on hand.

Tips for Making Easy Tamago Zosui

Use leftover rice
Day-old rice works perfectly, as the grains hold their shape better when simmered.
Keep it simple with instant dashi
Dashi granules or packets are convenient and still provide great flavor without the need to make stock from scratch.
Make use of leftover broth
Broth from dishes like nabemono, noodle soups, or even miso soup adds extra depth and reduces waste.
Customize with add-ins
While traditional Tamago Zosui is minimal, you can enhance it with vegetables like spinach, green onions, or mushrooms for added nutrition and texture.
Control the texture
Simmer the rice longer for a softer, porridge-like consistency, or keep it brief for a lighter, soupier feel.

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A Bowl of Comfort Anytime

Tamago Zosui is the kind of dish that fits effortlessly into everyday life. Whether you’re recovering from a cold, looking for a late-night meal, or simply trying to use up leftovers, it offers warmth and comfort with minimal effort.

Sometimes the simplest dishes are the most satisfying—and a bowl of Tamago Zosui is a perfect example. Why not try making this easy, cozy meal tomorrow?

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The recipe was originally published on February 11, 2021. The post was fully updated on April 20, 2026 with revised text, new photos, and a short video.

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