Kaiseki Delight

Recipe

Kaiseki Delight

Harmony on a Plate: A Journey through Japanese Kaiseki Cuisine

Kaiseki is a traditional Japanese multi-course meal that embodies the essence of Japanese culinary artistry. It is a meticulously crafted dining experience that showcases the harmony of flavors, textures, and seasonal ingredients.

Jan Dec

45 minutes

30 minutes

75 minutes

4 servings

Medium

Pescatarian, Gluten-free, Dairy-free, Low-carb, Nut-free

Fish, Soy

Vegan, Vegetarian, Paleo, Keto, High-protein

Ingredients

Nutrition

  • Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
  • Fat (total, saturated): 15g, 4g
  • Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 15g, 5g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Salt: 2g

Preparation

  1. 1.
    Slice the sashimi-grade fish into thin pieces and arrange them on a plate.
  2. 2.
    Blanch the seasonal vegetables in boiling water for a few minutes until tender. Drain and set aside.
  3. 3.
    Cut the tofu into small cubes and lightly pan-fry until golden brown. Set aside.
  4. 4.
    Thinly slice the wagyu beef and grill it to your desired doneness. Set aside.
  5. 5.
    Peel and slice the lotus root into thin rounds. Blanch in boiling water until tender. Drain and set aside.
  6. 6.
    In a pot, combine the kelp, soybeans, soy sauce, mirin, sake, and sugar. Simmer over low heat for 30 minutes. Remove the kelp and set aside the soybeans.
  7. 7.
    In a small bowl, mix the sesame oil, grated ginger, grated daikon radish, and wasabi to make a dipping sauce.
  8. 8.
    In a separate bowl, combine the sesame seeds, green tea powder, sugar, and hot water to make a paste for dessert.
  9. 9.
    Arrange the sashimi, vegetables, tofu, wagyu beef, lotus root, and soybeans on individual plates. Serve with the dipping sauce and green tea dessert paste.

Treat your ingredients with care...

  • Fish — Ensure the fish is fresh and of high quality to achieve the best flavor and texture.
  • Wagyu beef — Use a hot grill or skillet to quickly sear the beef, as it is best enjoyed when cooked to medium-rare.
  • Soybeans — If using dried soybeans, soak them overnight before simmering to ensure they become tender.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use a variety of colorful seasonal vegetables to enhance the visual appeal of the dish.
  • Experiment with different types of fish and vegetables to create your own unique Kaiseki experience.
  • Serve the dishes in a specific order, starting with lighter flavors and progressing to richer ones.
  • Take your time to appreciate each course and savor the delicate flavors.
  • Don't be afraid to try new ingredients and techniques to personalize your Kaiseki journey.

Serving advice

Serve each course of the Kaiseki meal on individual plates or small bowls. Encourage guests to take their time and appreciate the artistry and flavors of each dish. Provide small portions to allow for multiple courses and a well-rounded dining experience.

Presentation advice

Arrange the ingredients on the plates with attention to detail and aesthetics. Use garnishes such as edible flowers, microgreens, or thinly sliced vegetables to add visual appeal. Pay attention to color contrast and balance to create an enticing presentation that reflects the elegance of Kaiseki cuisine.