Kitsune udon

Kitsune Udon is a traditional Japanese noodle dish that is popular across Japan and in Japanese restaurants worldwide. The dish is characterized by its large, flat udon noodles, its hot dashi broth, and its topping of aburaage, a type of deep-fried tofu pouch that is often seasoned with soy sauce, sugar, and mirin.

History

The origins of Kitsune Udon are somewhat unclear, but it is believed to have originated in the Edo period, a time when Japan was undergoing significant cultural and culinary development. The dish is named after the kitsune, or fox, which is a significant figure in Japanese folklore. According to legend, foxes are particularly fond of aburaage, hence the name "Kitsune Udon".

Preparation

The preparation of Kitsune Udon involves several steps. First, the udon noodles are boiled until they are soft and chewy. While the noodles are cooking, the dashi broth is prepared by simmering kombu (kelp) and katsuobushi (dried bonito flakes) in water. The broth is then strained and seasoned with soy sauce, mirin, and a little bit of salt.

The aburaage is prepared separately by deep-frying thin slices of tofu until they puff up into little pouches. These pouches are then simmered in a mixture of soy sauce, sugar, and mirin until they are sweet and flavorful.

Once all the components are ready, the dish is assembled by placing the cooked udon noodles in a bowl, pouring the hot dashi broth over them, and topping them with the seasoned aburaage. The dish is typically garnished with negi (green onions) and shichimi (seven-spice blend).

Variations

There are several regional variations of Kitsune Udon across Japan. For example, in the Kansai region, the dashi broth is typically lighter and less salty, while in the Kanto region, the broth is darker and more robust. Some regions also add additional toppings such as narutomaki (fish cake), kamaboko (steamed fish cake), or tempura.

In popular culture

Kitsune Udon has been featured in various forms of Japanese popular culture, including manga, anime, and films. It is often depicted as a comforting, hearty dish that is enjoyed by people of all ages.

See also

• Japanese cuisine
• Udon
• Dashi
• Aburaage