Instant Dashi Powder

A quick alternative to making dashi from scratch is to use instant dashi powder, or granules. There are also vegetarian versions that use dried shiitake mushrooms in place of the bonito flakes. Many Japanese cooks will reluctantly tell you that they almost always use the powder since it is so simple. You’ll find instant dashi in Japanese markets and also online. Some are packaged in “tea bags,” which allow you to control the strength of the stock by removing the bag when it gets to the flavor intensity you like. Follow the package directions, as they vary by brand. The dry powder can also be used to flavor sauces and compound butters.