Zaru Soba (Cold Soba with Dipping Sauce)

Method

1. 1

   Combine the dashi, soy sauce, mirin and sugar in a small saucepan and bring just to a simmer to dissolve the sugar.

2. 2

   Chill the sauce in the fridge until fully cold, at least 20 minutes.

3. 3

   Bring a large pot of unsalted water to a boil and cook the soba 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until just tender.

4. 4

   Drain into a colander and rinse immediately under cold running water, rubbing the strands gently until the water runs clear.

   💡 This rinse is what makes zaru soba springy instead of gluey — don't skip it.

5. 5

   Shake the noodles dry and pile them onto a tray or plates, scattering with the nori strips.

6. 6

   Divide the chilled sauce among small bowls, set a small mound of wasabi and the spring onion alongside, and dip each mouthful of noodles briefly before eating.