Step 1

Pour the water into a medium pot and add the kombu.

Step 2

Bring to a very light simmer (do not boil) for 10 minutes. Remove the kombu with tongs and discard. Congratulations, you just made dashi!

Step 3

Add the soy sauce, mirin, sugar, shiitake mushrooms, and fried tofu. Simmer for 5 minutes.

Step 4

Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Step 5

Garnish with chopped green onion and serve immediately.