COLD SOBA NOODLES
4 servings

This is the classic way to eat buckwheat noodles—chilled but accompanied by hot and spicy condiments, creating an appealing contrast. If desired, serve with tempura-battered fried shrimp or vegetables.

Bring to a gentle boil in a medium saucepan over medium heat:

  • 2½ cups Dashi
  • ½ cup plus 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • ¼ cup mirin
  • 1 teaspoon sugar

Remove from the heat and let cool to room temperature. Using scissors, cut into fine shreds:

  • 1 sheet toasted nori

Arrange on a plate:

  • ½ cup sliced green onions
  • cup grated daikon radish
  • 2 tablespoons wasabi paste

In a large pot of boiling unsalted water, cook until nearly tender:

  • 12 ounces soba noodles

Drain in a colander and rinse under cold water until cool, swishing the noodles with your hand to rinse well. Divide the noodles among 4 bowls. Sprinkle each serving with nori shreds. Divide the dipping sauce into 4 little bowls and place one beside each serving. Place the plate with wasabi on it within easy reach. To eat, add a little green onion, radish, and wasabi to the dipping sauce, and dip each bite of noodles in the sauce.

Own a physical copy? Find this recipe on page 304.

Pasta, Noodles, and Dumplings