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Japanese Tsume And Tare Nitsume Or Thick Sweet Eel Sauce Recipe

Master the art of authentic Japanese tsume – the luscious, dark, sweet sauce that elevates sushi to another level! Traditionally made with simmered conger eel stock, this simplified recipe delivers incredible flavor in a fraction of the time. Perfect for drizzling over seafood sushi, fish, avocado rolls, tamago, and more. Learn how to create this restaurant-quality sauce that will keep for months in your refrigerator. This recipe uses convenient dashi substitutes readily available in Asian markets, making it accessible for home cooks of all levels. Achieve that signature glossy sheen and rich umami with our step-by-step guide!

Prep Time 10 mins
Cook Time 185 mins
Calories 319.1 kcal
Protein 17g
Rating 5.0 (9 Reviews)
Japanese Tsume And Tare Nitsume Or Thick Sweet Eel Sauce 28

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Recipe adapted from Food.com. Standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Japanese Tsume And Tare Nitsume Or Thick Sweet Eel Sauce

  • 1 cup dashi (granulated or liquid instant substitute)
  • ½ cup mirin (sweet rice wine)
  • Shoyu
  • 2 tablespoons sugar (granulated)

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How to Make Japanese Tsume And Tare Nitsume Or Thick Sweet Eel Sauce

  1. In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup dashi, ½ cup mirin, ½ cup sake, ¼ cup soy sauce, 2 tablespoons sugar, and 1 tablespoon grated ginger.
  2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat to low.
  3. Simmer gently, uncovered, for 2-3 hours, or until the sauce has thickened considerably and coats the back of a spoon. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  4. To check for doneness, use chopsticks or a spoon to lift a small amount of sauce. If it forms a thin thread or 'web' as it drips back into the pan, it's ready.
  5. Remove from heat and let cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate until ready to use. Reheat gently before serving.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

329 g

Sugar

215g

Fat

0g

Carbs

22g

Recipe Tags (Choose a tag and find related recipes!)

Time To Make Course Cuisine Preparation 5 Ingredients Or Less Sauces Condiments Etc Asian Japanese Easy Beginner Cook Sweet Sauces 3 Steps Or Less 4 Hours Or Less