When I was a child, I tended to think this kind of food was for old people. Now I am old, and I love this kind of food. It is so comforting, and delicious to eat with freshly cooked Rice. I use a whole packet of Dried Shiitake and a whole packet of Tofu Puffs. It’s OK to cook this amount as it lasts for several days if stored in the fridge.

---

Makes

4 to 6 Servings

Ingredients

50g Dried Shiitake
150g Tofu Puffs *smaller ones recommended
1 & 1/2 cups Water used to soak Shiitake *OR Dashi Stock of your choice
2 tablespoons Sugar
2 & 1/2 tablespoons Soy Sauce *add extra for stronger flavour
2 tablespoons Mirin

Method

1. Clean and wash Shiitake, then Soak in plenty of water for 1-2 hours at least until completely softened. Drain but save the water if you use it for cooking. Wash them well again. Cut in half if large.
2. Place Shiitake in a large saucepan, add Water that was used to soak Shiitake (*avoid the dirt and settlings) OR Dashi Stock of your choice. Add Sugar, Soy Sauce and Mirin, cover with a lid, and bring to the boil. Simmer for 20 minutes over medium low heat.
3. If Fried Tofu Puffs have unpleasant smell of oil, boil them in water for a few minutes, then drain to remove unwanted oil. *Note: This process is optional.
4. Add Tofu Puffs to the saucepan, and cook for a few minutes, stirring occasionally so that all Tofu Puffs can soak up the sauce. Cook until the sauce is reduced OR almost gone, depending on how strong the flavour you like.