Kombu, a type of seaweed, is an ingredient with a unique umami flavor that is gaining popularity as a health food. Not only does it add depth to dishes, but it’s also packed with nutrients such as iodine and calcium. Here are five dishes where Kombu is the star of the show.
1. Miso Soup with Kombu: This traditional Japanese dish is made with a miso broth, tofu, and vegetables simmered in kombu for added flavor and nutrition.
2. Kombu Rice Bowl: Cooked with kombu and served over a bed of steamed rice, this savory Japanese dish is full of flavor. Top it off with some pickles or your favorite vegetables for extra crunch.
3. Kombu-Broiled Salmon: This simple yet tasty dish combines two classic flavors – the savoriness of kombu and the deliciousness of salmon. Simply marinate a fillet of salmon in kombu and soy sauce, then broil it for a few minutes until cooked through.
4. Kombu Dashi: This classic Japanese soup is made with bonito fish flakes, kombu seaweed, and other ingredients that can be adjusted to taste. It’s simple yet flavorful, and is a great way to add umami to your cooking.
5. Kombu-Wrapped Onigiri: Onigiri is a popular Japanese snack made of rice balls wrapped in seaweed. Here, kombu makes an appearance by wrapping the rice before it’s formed into a triangle or sphere. Fill the center with your favorite ingredients and you’re ready to go!