Feb 12, 2025

Hasegawa Akari's Winter Donabe Recipe: Green Minestrone with Spinach and Cauliflower

Written by Team MUSUBI

Hasegawa Akari presents a minestrone soup made in a donabe clay pot. Unlike the classic red minestrone with tomatoes, this version features the green of spinach and the white of cauliflower, evoking a winter-inspired color palette.

"Spinach contains fat-soluble vitamins, so cooking it with oil enhances absorption. Cauliflower is rich in water-soluble vitamin C, and since this is a soup, you can enjoy its nutrients in full," says Hasegawa. The key is to sauté the onions thoroughly until they release moisture and turn translucent. "This process removes the onion’s sharpness and concentrates its sweetness," she explains.

This hot, nutrient-packed soup is perfect for winter. Pair it with Hasegawa's donabe roast pork for a delightful combination. Alternatively, add pasta and a sprinkle of Parmigiano-Reggiano to make it a main dish. Enjoy with the leftover white wine used in the recipe.

Ingredients

(For 4–5 servings)

Spinach: 200 g (7 oz) (baby spinach or frozen spinach can also be used)
Cauliflower: 1 head
Onion: 1/2, finely chopped
Garlic: 1 clove
Olive oil: 2 tbsp
White wine: 1/4 cup (2 fl oz)
Salt: to taste
Parmigiano-Reggiano: as desired

Step 1

Cut the spinach into 2 cm (0.8 in) pieces and soak in water for 10 minutes to remove bitterness. Drain well. Roughly chop the cauliflower, finely chop the onion, and crush the garlic.

Step 2

Heat olive oil in the clay pot over medium heat. Add the onion and a pinch of salt, then sauté until translucent.

Step 3

Add spinach, cauliflower, garlic, and white wine. Cover with the lid and steam for 7–8 minutes until the liquid evaporates.

Step 4

Lightly mash the cauliflower and garlic while mixing. Add 4 cups (32 fl oz) of water, bring to a boil, cover, and simmer on low heat for 30 minutes.

Step 5

Add 1 tsp of salt, mix well, and serve in bowls. Top with grated Parmigiano-Reggiano if desired.

Hasegawa Akari

Akari Hasegawa, a chef and dietitian, transitioned from being a child actor to studying nutrition in college. She gained fame in 2022 with her recipes on social media and has since become a popular influencer, contributing to magazines, websites, and cooking events.