Zaru Soba with Dipping Sauce

Ingredients

• 200 grams Dried buckwheat (soba) noodles
• 1 cup Dashi stock
• 0.25 cup Soy sauce
• 0.25 cup Mirin
• 0.5 teaspoon Granulated sugar
• 2 stalks Green onions, thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon Wasabi paste
• 1 tablespoon Shredded nori seaweed
• 1 teaspoon Toasted sesame seeds(optional)
• 2 cups Ice cubes

Instructions

1. 1

   In a small saucepan, combine dashi, soy sauce, mirin, and sugar. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, then remove and let cool completely in the refrigerator.

2. 2

   Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Do not add salt to the water as the noodles already contain it.

3. 3

   Add the soba noodles to the boiling water, stirring gently to prevent sticking. Cook according to package directions, usually 4 to 5 minutes.

4. 4

   Immediately drain the noodles in a colander and rinse them thoroughly under cold running water to remove excess starch.

5. 5

   Prepare a large bowl with cold water and ice cubes. Submerge the noodles in the ice bath for 30 seconds to ensure they are perfectly chilled and firm.

6. 6

   Drain the noodles well and divide them onto bamboo mats (zaru) or chilled plates.

7. 7

   Garnish the top of the noodles with shredded nori seaweed.

8. 8

   Serve the chilled dipping sauce in individual small bowls, accompanied by side plates of sliced green onions and wasabi for guests to mix in.