Knife Work
Matchstick Cut (Sengiri)
Slice thin planks, stack them, and cut 3 mm matchsticks. The strips cook fast and evenly.
Key Points
Cut planks first, then strips. Keep a flat side down so the root cannot roll. Stack only two or three planks.
Common Failures
Thick and thin strips mixed together cook unevenly. A rolling root slips and gives crooked cuts.
Do this
Cut the root into 5 cm lengths. Slice each piece into 3 mm planks. Stack two or three planks and cut 3 mm strips.
Why it works
Same-size strips cook in the same time. A 3 mm strip cooks through in about 3 minutes. It keeps a crisp bite in the center.
When to skip it
Skip it for long simmers. Thin strips go limp in the pot, so use chunks instead.
