Yudofu (Boiled Tofu Hot Pot)

Prepare the kombu dashi: Gently wipe the kombu with a damp cloth. Place the kombu and water in a nabe pot. Let the kombu soak in the water for at least 30 minutes, or ideally several hours, to extract flavor.

Heat the nabe pot over medium heat. Just before the water comes to a boil (when small bubbles begin to form around the edges), carefully remove the kombu from the pot. Do not allow the kombu to boil vigorously, as it can make the dashi bitter.

While the dashi is heating, prepare the silken tofu: Gently cut the silken tofu into 3-4 cm cubes.