How to Make Cold Somen Noodles: A Refreshing Summer Delight

Make cold somen noodles are the perfect antidote to sweltering summer days. This easy-to-make dish combines simplicity, versatility, and delightful flavors. Whether you're hosting a casual lunch or looking for a quick dinner, cold somen noodles are a satisfying choice that can be ready in under 15 minutes.

Somen noodles are thin, wheat-based Japanese noodles traditionally enjoyed during summer. Their light texture and quick cooking time make them an excellent option for hot days. These noodles are typically served cold and paired with dipping sauces and fresh toppings, creating a dish that is both refreshing and nourishing.

• Quick to Cook: Somen noodles boil in just 2 minutes, making them a speedy option for a meal or snack.
• Light and Refreshing: Their delicate flavor pairs beautifully with cool vegetables and tangy dipping sauces.
• Customizable: Add your favorite toppings like veggies, protein, or herbs for a personalized twist.

Cold somen noodles are perfect for days when you need something light yet flavorful.

To serve two people, you'll need the following:

• 180 g Dried Somen Noodles
• 200 ml Mentsuyu Dipping Sauce (100 ml per serving, with extra as needed)
• 40 g Cucumber (julienned)
• 4 Cherry Tomatoes (halved)
• 25 g Chikuwa Fish Cake (sliced)
• 2 Boiled Eggs (halved)
• 30 g Sliced Ham (julienned)
• 20 g Ginger (grated with peel)
• 4 Shiso Leaves (julienned)
• 10 g Radish Sprouts
• 10 g Green Onion (finely sliced)
• 10 g Japanese Ginger (Myoga) (sliced)
• White Sesame Seeds (as desired)

Start by preparing all the toppings for the noodles:

• Cucumber & Ham: Slice into thin, julienned strips.
• Tomatoes & Eggs: Halve for easy serving.
• Chikuwa: Cut into bite-sized slices.
• Ginger & Shiso Leaves: Grate and julienne respectively.
• Radish Sprouts: Trim off the roots.
• Green Onion & Myoga: Finely chop.

Organizing these in advance ensures smooth assembly later.

Fill a large pot with water, ensuring there’s enough space for the noodles to move freely.

• Heat the water over medium heat until it reaches a rolling boil.
• Add the somen noodles and stir to prevent clumping. Cook for about 2 minutes, or follow the package instructions.

Once boiled, drain the hot water immediately.

• Transfer the noodles to a colander and rinse thoroughly under cold running water.
• Use your hands to gently massage the noodles, removing excess starch for a smoother texture.
• Keep the noodles cool by serving them over ice or in chilled water.

Set up a serving station with the prepared noodles and toppings.

• Arrange the noodles in a large bowl with ice cubes and a little cold water to keep them fresh.
• Present the toppings in small bowls or plates around the main dish.
• Provide each guest with a cup of mentsuyu dipping sauce.

This setup encourages an interactive dining experience perfect for sharing.

• Take a portion of noodles, add your choice of toppings, and dip them into the mentsuyu.
• Shake off any excess water from the noodles before dipping to maintain the sauce’s rich flavor.

• Try Nagashi Somen: Catch somen noodles as they flow down a bamboo chute with chopsticks. This traditional Japanese practice is both entertaining and delicious.
• Experiment with Toppings: Add tempura, seaweed, or avocado for extra flair.
• Use Gadgets: Modern devices mimic the Nagashi Somen experience, making it fun for kids and adults alike.

Mentsuyu, a flavorful sauce made from dashi, soy sauce, and mirin, is essential for cold somen. While you can make it at home, ready-made options are widely available for convenience. Consider keeping a bottle on hand for an authentic touch to any Japanese noodle dish.