Hondashi Soup Stock 2.2: Complete Product Guide

Hondashi Soup Stock 2.2 refers to a specific 2.2-go (approximately 40g) package size of Ajinomoto's Hondashi instant dashi granules, a concentrated Japanese soup stock made from bonito flakes, kelp, and shiitake mushrooms that delivers authentic umami flavor for Japanese cooking and other culinary applications.

Hondashi Soup Stock 2.2 represents one of the most commonly available package sizes for this essential Japanese seasoning product. Understanding this specific variant helps home cooks and professional chefs select the right product for their needs while ensuring authentic flavor in traditional Japanese dishes.

What Is Hondashi and Why the 2.2 Designation Matters

Hondashi, produced by Japanese food company Ajinomoto, is a concentrated dashi seasoning that simplifies the traditionally time-consuming process of making Japanese soup stock. The "2.2" designation specifically refers to the package size measured in go, a traditional Japanese unit of volume where 1 go equals approximately 18 milliliters or 15 grams of the granulated product.

This 2.2-go package contains approximately 40 grams of Hondashi granules, making it ideal for home cooks who prepare Japanese cuisine regularly but don't need bulk quantities. The precise measurement system reflects Japan's culinary tradition of exact ingredient proportions for balanced flavors.

Ingredients and Flavor Profile

Hondashi Soup Stock 2.2 contains a carefully balanced blend of:

• Bonito flakes (katsuobushi) - providing rich umami and savory notes
• Kombu (kelp) - contributing deep oceanic flavors
• Shiitake mushrooms - adding earthy complexity
• Salt and sugar - for flavor enhancement
• Monosodium glutamate (MSG) - naturally occurring from fermentation

Unlike homemade dashi that requires simmering ingredients for extended periods, Hondashi 2.2 dissolves instantly in hot water to create a consistent broth with balanced umami characteristics. The flavor profile remains remarkably close to traditional dashi while offering convenience for modern cooking.

Hondashi Package Size	Approximate Weight	Typical Uses	Broth Yield
0.7-go	13g	Single serving, travel size	1-2 cups
2.2-go	40g	Regular home cooking	6-8 cups
4.5-go	80g	Frequent cooking, small gatherings	12-16 cups
11-go	200g	Commercial use, large batches	30+ cups

How to Use Hondashi Soup Stock 2.2 Properly

Using Hondashi Soup Stock 2.2 correctly ensures optimal flavor in your dishes. Follow these professional recommendations for best results:

1. Dissolving technique: Add granules to hot (not boiling) water (175-195°F/80-90°C) and stir gently until fully dissolved. Boiling water can degrade delicate flavor compounds.
2. Standard ratio: Use one level teaspoon (approximately 2g) of Hondashi 2.2 per 2 cups (500ml) of water for standard dashi strength.
3. Adjusting to taste: For lighter broths like miso soup, use slightly less; for heartier dishes like nimono (simmered dishes), you may increase by 25%.
4. Timing matters: Add Hondashi toward the end of cooking for soups and stews to preserve volatile flavor compounds.
5. Temperature control: Never bring Hondashi broth to a rolling boil after adding the granules, as this diminishes flavor quality.

Recipes Perfect for Hondashi Soup Stock 2.2

The 2.2 package size works exceptionally well for these traditional Japanese dishes:

Miso Soup for Four

Dissolve 1 teaspoon Hondashi 2.2 in 4 cups hot water, then add 3-4 tablespoons miso paste. Perfect for family meals, this preparation creates a clean, balanced base that lets the miso flavor shine through without overwhelming saltiness.

Chawanmushi (Savory Egg Custard)

Use Hondashi 2.2 broth instead of water when preparing the egg mixture. The precise concentration in the 2.2 package ensures consistent results for this delicate dish where broth quality directly affects texture and flavor.

Udon Noodle Broth

For authentic tokusen udon, combine Hondashi 2.2 broth with a small amount of soy sauce and mirin. The 2.2 package provides just enough stock for 4-6 servings without creating overly salty broth.

Storage Recommendations for Hondashi 2.2

Proper storage maintains flavor quality and extends shelf life:

• Keep unopened packages in a cool, dark pantry away from heat sources
• After opening, transfer remaining granules to an airtight container
• Store in a cool, dry place (not the refrigerator, which introduces moisture)
• Use within 3 months of opening for optimal flavor
• Check for clumping or discoloration, which indicates moisture exposure

Common Misconceptions About Hondashi Soup Stock

Several misunderstandings persist about Hondashi products:

• "Hondashi contains artificial flavors" - Actually, Hondashi uses naturally derived ingredients through traditional fermentation processes
• "All dashi granules taste the same" - Hondashi's specific 2.2 formulation maintains consistent quality that differs from generic dashi products
• "MSG in Hondashi is unhealthy" - The MSG in Hondashi occurs naturally from fermented ingredients and is present in amounts comparable to many natural foods
• "Hondashi can't match homemade dashi" - While traditional preparation has nuances, Hondashi 2.2 provides remarkably close flavor with professional consistency

Where to Find Authentic Hondashi Soup Stock 2.2

Look for genuine Hondashi Soup Stock 2.2 at:

• Japanese grocery stores (both physical and online)
• International sections of major supermarkets
• Specialty Asian food retailers
• Reputable online marketplaces (check seller ratings and product images)

When purchasing, verify the Ajinomoto logo and Japanese text on packaging to ensure authenticity. Counterfeit products often lack the precise flavor balance of genuine Hondashi.

Understanding Hondashi in Global Cooking

While traditionally used in Japanese cuisine, Hondashi Soup Stock 2.2 has gained popularity in fusion cooking. Chefs worldwide incorporate it into:

• Western-style soups for enhanced umami depth
• Risottos as an alternative to traditional stock
• Marinades for meats and vegetables
• Sauces requiring complex savory notes

The precise measurements of the 2.2 package make it particularly valuable for recipe development where consistency matters. Professional chefs appreciate how this specific size facilitates accurate scaling of recipes without wasteful excess.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the 2.2 mean in Hondashi Soup Stock 2.2?

The 2.2 refers to the package size measured in go, a traditional Japanese unit of volume. A 2.2-go package contains approximately 40 grams of Hondashi granules, designed for regular home cooking needs.

How many servings does Hondashi Soup Stock 2.2 provide?

A single 2.2-go package (40g) of Hondashi makes approximately 6-8 cups of standard dashi broth when used at the recommended ratio of 1 teaspoon per 2 cups of water.

Can I substitute Hondashi Soup Stock 2.2 for homemade dashi?

Yes, Hondashi Soup Stock 2.2 provides a remarkably close flavor profile to traditional dashi with the convenience of instant preparation. Use 1 teaspoon of Hondashi per 2 cups of hot water as a direct substitute for homemade dashi in most recipes.

Is Hondashi Soup Stock 2.2 gluten-free?

Yes, authentic Hondashi Soup Stock 2.2 is naturally gluten-free as it contains only bonito flakes, kelp, shiitake mushrooms, salt, sugar, and naturally occurring MSG from fermentation. Always check the specific product label for any regional variations.

How should I store Hondashi Soup Stock 2.2 after opening?

After opening, transfer Hondashi Soup Stock 2.2 to an airtight container and store in a cool, dry place away from moisture. Do not refrigerate, as this introduces humidity. Properly stored, it maintains optimal flavor for up to 3 months after opening.