How to Kaiseki

What You Need to Know

Kaiseki emphasizes umami flavor through dashi, soy sauce, and sake, and utilizes the Maillard reaction through searing and grilling to enhance flavors and textures. It requires attention to seasonal and local ingredients to preserve delicate flavors and textures.

Steps

1. 1.

   Sakizuke (Kyoto): Seasonal amuse-bouche setting tone

2. 2.

   Hassun (Kanazawa): Bento-style presentation of land/sea

3. 3.

   Takiawase (Osaka): Simmered harmony of textures

The Science

Primary Reaction

Maillard reaction

Common Mistakes