Grab-and-go offerings of picnicky food are almost universally mediocre and exasperatingly expensive. Resist the temptation to outsource and make your own. This recipe is built to last. You can make it a day or two ahead of time, or leave it out on the counter if you’re going to eat these noodles within a few hours of making it.
Ingredients
- dried kelp
- 4cups of water
- ½cup dried bonito flakes
- soy sauce
- soba noodles
- sesame oil
- chopped scallions.
Preparation
- To make dashi, combine a piece of dried kelp (kombu) and 4 cups of water in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
- Don’t let the mixture boil; as soon as it’s about to, turn off the heat, and remove the kelp.
- Add ½ cup dried bonito flakes, and stir; let sit for a few minutes, then strain, add some soy sauce to taste and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
- Cook some soba noodles, and rinse under cold water to cool them down; toss with a little neutral or sesame oil to prevent them from sticking.
- To serve, pour some of the cold dashi into bowls and top with the noodles. Garnish: Chopped scallions.
Dining and Cooking