Step 1

First, pour 500ml (2.11 cups) water into a pot.

Step 2

We will use this Yoshino Kuzu, real kuzu root starch powder and white sesame paste.

Step 3

Add the kuzu starch and sesame paste.

Step 4

Add a sprinkle of salt and stir well with a balloon whisk.

Step 5

Using a whisk will help the kuzu starch dissolve completely.

Step 6

When it dissolves, turn on the burner. At first, continue to mix with a wooden paddle over high heat.

Step 7

After 4 to 5 minutes, it will start to boil. When it begins to thicken, please mix vigorously since the mixture will harden and stick to the bottom.

Step 8

The more vigorously you mix, the smoother the texture of goma dofu will be.

Step 9

Now, the bottom is starting to harden. Stir the mixture by scraping along the bottom of the pan to prevent it from sticking. The mixture is getting thicker and thicker.

Step 10

And now, you need to work really hard. This is where you should reduce the heat to low. If you continue over high heat, it will definitely burn and stick to the bottom.

Step 11

The mixture gets really thick compared to the thin liquid at the beginning. Though it’s really thick, you should not be satisfied with this. Mixing vigorously from this point is the key to making delicious goma dofu.

Step 12

Now, it’s time to pour the mixture into a container. It is a good idea to fill the container with water and discard it before pouring the mixture in. Wetting the inside of the container will help in removing the goma dofu later.

Step 13

Pour the mixture into the container.

Step 14

Drop the container several times onto a hard surface to allow the air bubbles to rise to the top. This will tremendously improve the texture.

Step 15

The surface of the goma dofu dries out easily so tightly wrap it with plastic wrap. Cover the surface completely with the wrap.

Step 16

Let it sit to cool and then place the goma dofu in the fridge until firmed up.

Step 17

Now, it’s firmed up enough so let’s put it into a bowl. First, remove the plastic wrap.

Step 18

Sometimes it’s difficult to remove the goma dofu from the container. In that case, pour a little water along the edge of the goma dofu to remove it easily. Then, discard the excess water from the container.

Step 19

Finally, take out the goma dofu. Place a cutting board onto the container and flip it over.

Step 20

Be careful not to drop it on the floor.

Step 21

The goma dofu has been successfully removed!

Step 22

Next, cut it into 4 pieces. Wetting a knife will help cut it without any trouble.

Step 23

For toppings, we propose wasabi soy sauce. Wasabi soy sauce is popular in Japan and it increases the refreshing taste of goma dofu.