Bar Goto’s Kombu Celery

Bar Goto’s Kombu Celery is one of the most strangely exciting appetizers I've tried this year. It's simple to make but impossible to stop eating.

What is Bar Goto’s Kombu Celery

Bar Goto's Kombu Celery is the ultimate ode to the simplicity of Japanese flavors, served with a twist of modern elegance.

This dish features shaved, crisp celery stalks, transformed into an umami-packed sensation.

With a drizzle of fragrant sesame oil, a delicate dab of soy sauce, and a sprinkling of Shiso fumi furikake, each bite of this appetizer is a journey through the refreshing crunch of celery, the nutty allure of toasted sesame seeds, and the savory depth of umami, all harmoniously balanced to tantalize your taste buds.

Bar Goto's Kombu Celery is a masterpiece that marries tradition and innovation, offering a delightful start to your culinary adventure.

And since it's $9 per serving it's even better at home!

Ingredients and Substitutions

• Celery Stalks - This could also work with cucumber although celery is traditionally used.
• Sesame Oil - Toased sesame oil also works.
• Soy Sauce - You could also use tamari if you have a gluten sensitivity.
• Seasoned Rice Wine Vinegar - Regular rice wine vinegar also works but I love how the pop of sweetness elevates this dish.
• Traditional Furikake - You could use the standard furikake as long as it's got pieces of kombu seaweed in there. Their menu says kombu but I think the nori furikake tastes super similar if you can't find it.
• Shiso Fumi Furikake - This is where the red shiso comes in. It adds a beautiful tangy vibrant flavor.
• Toasted Sesame Seeds - This is mainly for finishing and adds a perfect nutty touch. Untoasted also works.

How to make it

Making Bar Goto's kombu celery is simple!

Just uyse a vegetable peeler to peel the celery stalks down until they're tender and skinny.

Cut each stalk in half and place in a shallow mixing bowl.

Drizzle with sesame oil, rice wine vinegar and soy sauce and toss.

Add both the furikakes and toss once more.

Top with toasted sesame seeds before serving.

What goes with Bar Goto’s Kombu Celery

Bar Goto's Kombu Celery is so good with these drunken eggs, this Indonesian Tempeh, or even this Spicy Garlic Knife Cut Noodles.

If you like this recipe, you might also like my Asian Avocado Salad or this Xi'an Inspired Crushed Cucumber Salad.

Frequently asked questions

Why is kombu healthy?

I'm no doctor but Kombu is the unsung hero of the sea. It packs a punch of health benefits in its unassuming, seaweed form. Bursting with essential minerals like iodine and calcium, it not only elevates umami flavors but also supports thyroid function and bone health, making it a superstar ingredient for those seeking a delectably nutritious boost in their culinary creations.

What is kombu used in?

Kombu, the unsung hero of the sea, is like nature's umami bomb! This versatile seaweed is a staple in Japanese cuisine, adding a depth of savory flavor to dashi broth, miso soup, and even marinades for a delectable umami boost that'll elevate your dishes to a whole new level of deliciousness.

What does kombu taste like?

With a subtle hint of oceanic brininess and a whisper of earthy, savory notes. It's like a secret ingredient from the depths, elevating dishes to a whole new level.

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