Chilled Totoro Soba Noodles with Grated Yam

1. 1

   Boil the soba noodles in plenty of boiling water.

2. 2

   While the soba is boiling, chop the green onions.

3. 3

   Slice the yamaimo to make 2 rounds (they will be Totoro's eyes), and grate the rest.

4. 4

   Adjust the size of the eyes accordingly.

5. 5

   Cut the nori out to make the eyes, nose, and belly pattern.

6. 6

   I just cut them out with scissors, but it may be easier if you use a craft punch.

7. 7

   This is how it looked like before I added the grated nagaimo.

8. 8

   I put a mitsuba leaf on top of his head and finished off by garnishing with chopped green onions around it.

9. 9

   This is important!!

10. 10

    Use only a little bit of the noodles in the center to make a shallow well for Totoro's belly.

11. 11

    Pour in the grated nagaimo into the well.

12. 12

    Add the belly pattern nori on top, and it's done.

13. 13

    I guarantee your child will love this.

14. 14

    Pour mentsuyu all over!

15. 15

    It's a shame to lose the Totoro shape, but the noodles will taste better if you mix it all up before eating.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.