Making Proper Dashi
You cannot replicate the depth of a miso soup or a simmering broth without this base. It takes less than twenty minutes to pull together if you respect the temperature.
Temperature control is your primary job.
If the water bubbles aggressively, start over. The subtle oils in the kelp and fish require a gentle extraction to remain clean.
- Medium saucepan
- Fine-mesh strainer
- Cheesecloth or coffee filter
What goes in.
- 4 cupscold water
- 4-inch squaredried kombu
- 1 cupkatsuobushi (bonito flakes)
The Gentle Steep
Watch the surface for tiny bubbles forming at the base of the pot; that is the signal to remove the kelp. Never let the liquid approach a roiling boil.
The method.
Soak the kombu
Wipe the white powder off the kombu with a damp cloth, then place it in the cold water. Let it sit for 30 minutes if you have the time, or move directly to the heat.
Warm the kelp
Set the saucepan over medium-low heat. Keep a close eye on it. As soon as you see small bubbles rising, fish the kombu out and discard it.
Add the flakes
Bring the water back to the verge of a simmer, then immediately drop in the katsuobushi. Turn off the heat and let the flakes sink to the bottom on their own, which takes about 2 to 3 minutes.
Strain
Line your strainer with a cheesecloth. Pour the liquid through gently without pressing the flakes, as squeezing them releases bitterness into the stock.
When it doesn't go to plan.
Keep the used kombu in the freezer; you can save it for a second batch or slice it thin for salads.
Use soft water if possible, as hard water can interfere with the extraction of the umami compounds.
If you must store the dashi, use it within three days or freeze it in ice cube trays for smaller portions.
The ones that keep coming up.
Can I use the flakes again?
Yes, you can simmer the used flakes with a splash of soy sauce and sugar to make a topping for rice, known as furikake.
Why is my dashi cloudy?
Cloudiness usually comes from boiling the water too hard or pressing the flakes through the strainer. Keep the movement minimal.
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