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Chawanmushi With Manila Clams and Shiitake Mushrooms

Chawanmushi with Manila clams and shiitake mushrooms in four ramekins.
Photo by Rick Poon

Chawanmushi is a savory, soupy warm custard. It makes a wonderful first course, served either hot or cold. The clams and shiitake mushroom dashi impart a rich and subtly salty flavor to this custard, and the herb is a very important garnish to brighten this dish. Be sure to start by hydrating the dried mushrooms the night before you plan to serve the chawanmushi.

This recipe was excerpted from 'Japanese Home Cooking' by Sonoko Sakai. Buy the full book on Amazon.

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