Cheng Can Cook: Karashi Mentaiko Mozuku Somen & Marinated Cucumber ★★★

Great Summer Recipes from Instagram. Plum Mozuku (Japanese Seaweed in Vinegar) Somen is now trending on Instagram. I made a Karashi Mentaiko version. Tastes great. Cold Cucumber is always my favorite. Found a Japanese recipe that does not require garlic and is delicious. Recipes below.

Tarako Mozuku Somen:
Ingredients:
4 pieces of Okra
1 Tablespoon of Karashi Mentaiko
3 pieces of Shiso Leaves
1 pack of Mozuku Vinegar
3 Tablespoons of Concentrated Noodle Soy Sauce
2 teaspoons of Sesame Oil
A pinch of Dashi Powder
1/4 cup of Water
Chopped Scallions (optional)
Sesame Seeds (optional)

A bunch of Somen

Instructions:
1. Rub Okra with Salt, Rinse, then microwave for 1 minute (or steam), soak in ice water & dry w/ paper towel.
2. Cut away Okra heads & discard. Cut Okra into small stars.
3. Stack Shiso Leaves, roll up, & cut.
4. Mix all ingredients in a bowl.
5. Cook somen, mix with sauce & serve.

Marinated Cucumber:
Ingredients:
2 Cucumbers
A pinch of Salt
1 Tablespoon of Soy Sauce
1 Tablespoon of Sesame Oil
A bit of Ginger Paste
A pinch of Black Pepper
A pinch of Dashi Powder
Dried Kombu (optional)
Sesame Seeds (optional)

Instructions:
1. Wash & Dry Cucumber. Cut away both ends. Sprinkle salt and let stand for 10 minutes to release moisture.
2. Cut into bite-size pieces. Mix ingredients in a bowl & marinate w/ Cucumber in refrigerator for 30 minutes. Enjoy!