Kim Dae-seok's Universal Kombu Soy Sauce

Name: Kim Dae-seok's Universal Kombu Soy Sauce
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 1 servings
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: premium soy sauce 1.5L; dried kombu 25g (about 1 large piece)

A super simple, umami-rich universal sauce made by simply soaking dried kombu in soy sauce without boiling

10 min Difficulty Easy Sauces & basics

Main ingredients

premium soy saucedried kombu

Ingredients needed 1 servings

premium soy sauce 1.5L

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premium soy sauce dried kombu

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dried kombu 25g (about 1 large piece)

Recipe

Do not wipe off the white powder on the surface of dried kombu—it contains mannitol, a key umami component.
Using scissors, cut the dried kombu into thin, long strips that can fit through the jar opening.
Open the lid of the soy sauce container and gently push each strip of kombu inside one at a time.
Close the lid, label it with the date, and age in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight for three months.
After three months, use this universal umami sauce in braises, salads, stews, and various other dishes.

Cut the dried kombu into thin, long strips suitable for the jar opening using scissors.
Add all the cut kombu to the soy sauce container.
Close the lid and age in a cool, dark place for three months before using in cooking.

Cooking tips

The white powder on kombu is likely mannitol, a natural umami compound. Only use dried kombu that is dry and free of musty odors or unusual smells.
Cutting the kombu thin and long makes it easier to remove later when needed.
Store the finished kombu soy sauce away from direct sunlight. Discard if it develops an abnormal smell or color.

Recommended for

Those seeking a universal secret sauce to deepen the umami flavor in various dishes.
Home cooks who want a quick, no-boil method to make a flavorful homemade soy sauce.

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Kim Dae-seok's Universal Kombu Soy Sauce

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Ingredients needed 🛒1 servings