Foolproof Basic Chawanmushi

Directions

1. 1
   Rehydrate the dried shiitake mushrooms.
2. 2
   Cut chicken into 2-cm pieces and season lightly with salt and 1/2 tablespoon of sake.
3. 3
   Devein the shrimps, then boil them and remove the shells.
4. 4
   Blanch the mitsuba and tie the stems together in a knot.
5. 5
   In a sauce pan, heat 50 ml of shiitake mushroom soaking liquid and the Japanese dashi stock.
6. 6
   Add the seasoning.
7. 7
   Let it cool down.
8. 8
   Break the eggs into a bowl and beat gently without creating bubbles.
9. 9
   Add the dashi made in Step 3 and mix.
10. 10
    Strain the mixture.
11. 11
    Put the chicken, kamaboko, and shiitake mushrooms into the bowls.
12. 12
    Add the egg mixture until the bowls are about 60% full.
13. 13
    Cover with the chawanmushi bowl lids, and place the bowls into a preheated steamer.
14. 14
    First steam for 2 minutes over high heat, then immediately reduce the heat to low and steam for 13-15 minutes.
15. 15
    Remove the lids from the bowls and place the mitsuba and shrimp on top.
16. 16
    Return the lids and leave for about a minute.