Authentic Japanese Shabu Shabu Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide

Authentic Japanese Shabu Shabu Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide

Discover the art of preparing a delicious and authentic Japanese Shabu Shabu at home with this step-by-step guide using Nikusho Tanaka’s A5 Wagyu and Hokkaido Pork Loin. From creating a flavorful broth to selecting the freshest ingredients, follow these simple instructions to elevate your Shabu Shabu experience.


Ingredients and Preparation

Broth Preparation
  • Fill a large donabe clay pot with water and add a piece of kombu (dried kelp). Soak for at least 30 minutes. Adjust kombu quantity for larger pots.
  • Prepare udon noodles as per instructions, ensuring they are ready to be served at the end of the meal.
    Vegetable and Protein Selection
    • Cut napa cabbage, shungiku (chrysanthemum greens), Tokyo negi, enoki mushrooms, shimeji mushrooms, shiitake mushrooms, carrot, and medium-firm tofu.
    • Arrange all ingredients on a serving platter for a visually appealing presentation.
      Accompanying Dips
      • Peel and grate daikon radish, squeeze to remove excess liquid.
      • Prepare ponzu sauce with grated daikon, shichimi togarashi (optional), and green onion.
      • Prepare sesame dipping sauce with chopped green onion.

         

        Cooking Shabu Shabu

        Setting Up
        • Use a portable gas stove and place the donabe on the burner.
        • Set platters with ingredients on the table, provide individual bowls of ponzu and sesame dipping sauce for each person.
        Broth Simmering
        • Simmer the broth, removing kombu just before boiling.
        • Add ingredients in batches: tofu, tough parts of vegetables, negi, carrots, and some mushrooms. Cover and cook for 10 minutes.
        shabu shabu

        Eating Shabu Shabu

        Dipping Sauces
          • While waiting, prepare dipping sauces with grated daikon, shichimi togarashi, and green onion.
          • Swish meat in boiling broth for 20–30 seconds, avoiding overcooking.
        Enjoying the Meal
          • Dip cooked beef and vegetables in ponzu or sesame sauce.
          • Continue cooking and enjoying various ingredients, skimming scum from the broth.
        Ending with Udon Noodles
          • Add udon noodles to the pot, reheat for 1–2 minutes.
          • Lightly season the broth with salt and white pepper (optional).
          • Dilute individual bowls of ponzu with broth and serve udon noodles.

        Experience the joy of Japanese Shabu Shabu in the comfort of your home.

        This comprehensive guide ensures that every step, from preparation to savoring the final udon noodles, is a delightful culinary adventure.

        Gather your loved ones and embark on a journey of flavor with this authentic recipe.