Japanese Dashi (Bonito Fish Stock)

May 29, 2023May 29, 20230 2

How to make Japanese Dashi (Bonito Fish Stock) at home

by The Chefin Soup

Prep

5 min

Cook

20 min

Ready In

25 min

Level

Very Easy

Rating

Ingredients

	4 1/2 cups water
	6 inches dried kelp ( konbu )
	1 cup bonito flakes

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe

Calories

Sugar

Fat

0.5g

Dashi is a fundamental ingredient in many Japanese dishes. It is used as a base for soups, sauces, and stews. Dashi is made from konbu, a type of dried seaweed, and bonito flakes, which are dried, fermented, and smoked skipjack tuna. The combination of these two ingredients creates a light and flavorful broth that is essential to Japanese cuisine. This recipe is easy to make and can be used as a healthy alternative to chicken or beef stock in a variety of recipes.

Instructions

1.	Wipe the konbu with a damp cloth to remove excess salt.
2.	Put the konbu and water in a pot and heat over low heat.
3.	After the water comes to a boil, remove the konbu.
4.	Add bonito flakes to the pot and stir gently.
5.	When the water comes to a boil again, remove from heat.
6.	Let the bonito flakes sink to the bottom of the pot for about 10 minutes.
7.	Strain the dashi through a cheesecloth or a mesh strainer.

PROS

Dashi is the foundation of many Japanese dishes, including miso soup, udon, and tempura sauce.

It contains essential amino acids that help to bring out the flavor of other ingredients.

It is low in calories and high in protein and can be used as a healthy alternative to chicken or beef stock.

CONS

It may not be easy to find all of the ingredients, especially bonito flakes, which are not commonly used in Western cuisine.

It can also be time-consuming to make from scratch.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Dashi is a good source of protein and contains all of the essential amino acids that the human body needs.
It is also low in calories and fat and has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties.
It can help to reduce blood pressure, improve digestion, and boost the immune system.