Mentsuyu is a traditional Japanese seasoning made primarily with soy sauce, sugar, and dashi (Japanese soup stock).
It is commonly used as a dipping sauce or soup base for Japanese noodles such as soba, udon, and somen. It can also be used as a versatile seasoning for simmered dishes, rice bowls, dressings, and other Japanese dishes.
There are many types of store-bought mentsuyu, including concentrated and ready-to-use varieties. However, you can also easily make it at home using a few simple ingredients.
This homemade mentsuyu recipe makes approximately 400 ml, enough for about 4 servings. It has a rich soy sauce flavor balanced with the umami of dashi.
- Soy sauce: 30ml
- White wine 60m
- Sugar: 5 tsp
- Powdered dashi: 1-2 teaspoons
- Water: 330 ml
Instructions
1. Combine the Ingredients
Add the soy sauce, cooking sake, sugar, powdered dashi, and water to a saucepan.
Stir gently to combine, making sure that the sugar and powdered dashi do not settle at the bottom of the pan.
Tip
There is no need to heat the ingredients over high heat from the beginning. Warm them gradually over medium heat so that the ingredients blend together evenly.
2. Heat the Mentsuyu
Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir occasionally as the mixture warms.
Once the sugar has completely dissolved and the mixture is well combined, reduce the heat to low just before it comes to a full boil.
3. Cool and Transfer to a Container
Once the sugar has dissolved completely and the dashi and seasonings are well blended, remove the saucepan from the heat.
Allow the mentsuyu to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to a clean container.
When storing homemade mentsuyu, always use a clean container and clean utensils.
Unlike many commercial products, homemade mentsuyu does not contain preservatives, so avoid storing it for a long period and use it promptly.
The key is to avoid bringing the mixture to a vigorous boil and to heat it gently so that the flavors blend together.
If you would like to store your mentsuyu for longer, you can also try our concentrated mentsuyu recipe made without water and dilute it with water when you are ready to use it.
We hope you enjoy using this homemade mentsuyu to prepare a variety of delicious Japanese noodle dishes. From comforting bowls of udon to refreshing soba, there are so many ways to enjoy this versatile sauce. Try different ingredients and toppings to create your own favorite Japanese noodle dishes at home!