Basic Japanese Dashi Broth

Basic Japanese Dashi Broth

As we continue with our anime-inspired recipes, there are a few essential ‘basics of Japanese cuisine’ that you just can’t miss. One of them is dashi.

Ingredients

  • 1 liter water
  • 10 g kelp – kombu
  • 10 g dried bonito flakes – katsuobushi

Directions

  1. Soak the kelp in water for more than 30 minutes to extract its umami before heating.
  2. Heat slowly at a slightly higher than low temperature for about 10 minutes, just before boiling.
  3. Remove the kelp, bring the water to a boil, then turn off the heat.
  4. Add the bonito flakes and bring the pot to a boil again over medium to high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat and skim off any scum.
  5. Simmer on low heat for 4 minutes to extract the flavor.
  6. Turn off the heat and strain through a tea strainer or fine colander lined with kitchen paper. Let it filter naturally without squeezing.
  7. Once cooled, store in the refrigerator and use within 2-3 days.