Dashi (Japanese Stock)

May 27, 2023May 27, 20230 1

Savor the rich umami flavor of homemade Dashi (Japanese Stock)

by The Chefin Soup

Prep

30 min

Cook

3 min

Ready In

33 min

Level

Very easy

Rating

Ingredients

	6 cups cold water
	1 piece giant dried kelp , about 10 x 3 inches ( kombu )
	3/4 cup dried bonito flakes ( katsuo bushi )

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe

Calories

Sugar

Fat

Dashi is a basic ingredient in Japanese cuisine and is used as a base for soups, stews, sauces and seasoning for many dishes. It adds a unique savory flavor, referred to as umami, which is essential in Japanese cooking. Although instant dashi granules are available, most Japanese households make it from scratch because it's healthier, inexpensive and tastes much better. The preparation of Dashi involves the unique combination of two ingredients, Kombu and Bonito flakes, which make it simpler than you'd think, but the resulting stock is full of flavor that can enhance various dishes.

Instructions

1.	In a large pot, add cold water and kombu and let it soak for 30 minutes.
2.	Heat the pot over medium heat until the water is almost boiling and remove the kombu just before the water boils to prevent bitterness.
3.	Add the dried bonito flakes and simmer for 2-3 minutes.
4.	Strain the liquid through a fine mesh sieve and discard the solids. Use immediately or store in the fridge for up to 3 days.

PROS

Dashi is a fundamental ingredient in Japanese cuisine and can be used in a wide range of Japanese dishes.

Homemade Dashi is free from artificial flavorings and preservatives and has a rich umami flavor that transforms any dish.

CONS

Making Dashi from scratch requires time and effort to get the perfect balance of flavors.

The ingredients used can be expensive and difficult to find in some areas.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Dashi is rich in minerals such as iodine, calcium, and potassium, which are essential for maintaining good health.
The amino acids present in Dashi provide a unique taste and stimulate the appetite. Its low calorie and sodium content makes it a healthy substitute for salt to enhance the flavor of dishes.