Somen Cold Noodles For Two Recipes

JAPANESE COLD SOMEN NOODLES

Steps:

• Gather the ingredients.
• Prepare the toppings and place in separate serving bowls. Set aside.
• Bring a large pot of unsalted water to a boil.
• Meanwhile, add the mirin to a medium saucepan over low heat and cook until just heated through, about 30 seconds.
• Raise the heat to high, add the soy sauce and dashi soup stock . Bring to a boil, stirring occasionally.
• Remove from heat and cool completely, at least 20 minutes. Refrigerate if not using right away.
• Meanwhile, make the somen noodles. Add the dried somen noodles to the large pot of boiling water, gently stirring until the noodles are al dente, about 1 1/2 to 2 minutes.
• Drain the somen in a colander and cool under running water or in an ice bath.
• Continue to wash the noodles, tossing with your hands until completely cold. Drain well.
• Serve the drained cold somen in a large serving bowl or divided between individual bowls with the dipping sauces in individual small bowls and toppings on the side.

SOMEN (COLD NOODLES) FOR TWO

Steps:

• Combine sesame oil, soy sauce, red peppers, tsuyu, and lime juice.
• Mix well and refrigerate.
• Chop and plate dipping items on a platter.
• Steam shrimp.
• Prepare somen according to directions (takes about 3 minutes once water is boiling).
• Rinse under cold water in a strainer.
• Place in a large bowl of ice.
• Serve with platter and dipping sauce.
• To eat, simply place a small quantity (about 1/5 cup) sauce in a small bowl or medium size glass and add the noodles and other ingredients.
• ***Reserve some of the dipping sauce for occasionally refreshing the dipping vessel fluid, which becomes slightly diluted from the noodle liquid.