Ingredients
1
(5- to 6-inch) piece kombu (dried kelp)
2
(5-g) packages katsuo bushi (dried bonito flakes; 1 cup)
Special equipment: cheesecloth
Directions
1.
Wipe any sand or salt from kombu with a dampened cloth. Bring kombu and water just to a boil in a 3-quart saucepan over high heat. Remove kombu with tongs and reserve for another use.
2.
Sprinkle katsuo bushi over liquid and remove pan from heat. Let stand 3 minutes, then pour through a cheesecloth-lined sieve into a bowl.
4.
Dashi keeps 4 days. Cool, uncovered, then chill, covered.