Cold Somen Noodles

Ease of preparation rating: Medium.

Yield:  4 servings.

Ingredients:

3 bundles of somen noodles

Finely grated fresh ginger, to taste

Minced scallion, to taste

Shredded fresh shiso leaves, to taste

Sesame seeds, to taste

Grated wasabi, to taste

Shredded nori, to taste

Method:

In a large saucepan, bring 2.5 liters of water to a rolling boil. When water reaches boil, add noodles and 1 additional cup of water.

Bring water to a second boil, add 1 cup of cold water and bring water to a boil a third time.

Simmer until noodles are just tender and slightly translucent, approximately 2 minutes.

To test if noodles are done, dip 1 strand in cold water and taste. If noodles are not tender enough, add 1 cup cold water and bring to a boil again.

When noodles are done, drain noodles and rinse in cold water.

Serve in a bowl filled with ice and water, with all garnishes served on the side.

*Serve with Tsuyu Sauce. See recipe.