Nimono - Japanese Simmered Dish

Ingredients

• 2 cups (470ml) vegetable broth 2 cups (470ml) vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon mirin 1 tablespoon mirin
• 1 tablespoon sake 1 tablespoon sake
• 1 tablespoon sugar 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 onion, sliced 1 onion, sliced
• 2 carrots, sliced 2 carrots, sliced
• 1 daikon radish, peeled and sliced 1 daikon radish, peeled and sliced
• 1 cup shiitake mushrooms, sliced 1 cup shiitake mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup snap peas 1 cup snap peas
• 1 block tofu, cubed 1 block tofu, cubed
• 2 green onions, chopped 2 green onions, chopped
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening) 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• Salt, to taste Salt, to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 6g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 24g, 10g
• Protein: 8g
• Fiber: 6g
• Salt: 2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and sauté until translucent.
2. 2.
   Add the carrots, daikon radish, and shiitake mushrooms to the pot. Sauté for a few minutes until slightly softened.
3. 3.
   Pour in the vegetable broth, soy sauce, mirin, sake, and sugar. Stir well to combine.
4. 4.
   Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
5. 5.
   Add the snap peas and tofu to the pot. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
6. 6.
   If desired, mix the cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the pot to thicken the broth.
7. 7.
   Season with salt to taste. Garnish with chopped green onions.
8. 8.
   Serve the Nimono hot with steamed rice.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Tofu — To enhance the texture and flavor of tofu, consider pressing it before using. Place the tofu between paper towels and place a heavy object on top for about 30 minutes to remove excess moisture. This will allow the tofu to absorb more of the delicious broth.

Tips & Tricks

• For a heartier version, you can add chicken, beef, or seafood to the Nimono.
• Experiment with different vegetables based on seasonal availability for a fresh twist.
• Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar, depending on your preference.
• To make the dish more visually appealing, cut the vegetables into decorative shapes.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated for a quick and satisfying meal.

Serving advice

Serve Nimono in individual bowls alongside steamed rice. The dish can be enjoyed as a main course or as part of a Japanese-style meal with other small dishes.

Presentation advice

Arrange the colorful vegetables and tofu beautifully in the bowl, ensuring each ingredient is visible. Garnish with chopped green onions for a pop of freshness.