Dish Title:
"Ocean & Earth Symphony: Kombu-Cured Venison, Sea Urchin Custard, Black Garlic Soil, and Smoked Cherry Blossom Emulsion"
Conceptual Narrative:
This composition embodies the delicate interplay between land and sea, exploring the subtle yet profound connection between umami-rich sea elements and earthy forest nuances. Tender venison loin cured in kombu showcases an unusual yet harmonious pairing, while an elegant sea urchin custard captures oceanic sweetness. Black garlic soil introduces complex, fermented earthiness, countered by the delicate floral and smoky notes of cherry blossom emulsion. Each component is meticulously constructed using advanced culinary techniques, resulting in a dish that is as visually stunning as it is flavorful.
Components:
① Kombu-Cured Venison Loin (Sous Vide & Pan-Seared)
- 500 g venison loin
- 20 g kombu
- 15 g sea salt
- 5 g sugar
- Neutral oil, for searing
Steps: Cure venison wrapped in kombu for 12 h → sous-vide 56 °C 45 min → sear and slice.
② Sea Urchin (Uni) Custard
- 100 g uni
- 250 ml dashi
- 3 egg yolks
- 50 ml cream
Steps: Blend → strain → steam 85 °C 20 min.
③ Black Garlic "Soil"
- 50 g black garlic
- 100 g pumpernickel crumbs
- 40 g black sesame
- 10 ml squid ink
Steps: Blitz together → dehydrate 60 °C 1 h.
④ Smoked Cherry Blossom Emulsion
- 10 g dried sakura blossoms
- 100 ml cherry blossom vinegar
- 150 ml neutral oil
- 1 g xanthan gum
Steps: Soak blossoms → cold-smoke 15 min → emulsify with vinegar & oil → season & bottle.
Plating
- Spoon warm uni custard off-centre.
- Lean three venison medallions alongside.
- Arc black garlic soil around.
- Dot sakura emulsion along soil.
- Garnish micro-herbs and edible petals.
Sourcing Notes
- Uni: Premium Hokkaido or Santa Barbara.
- Sakura Blossoms: Culinary-grade dried sakura from Japanese suppliers.
- Black Garlic: Long-aged bulbs, soft and glossy.
Crafted to evoke the sea meeting an ancient forest, this dish delivers layered umami, floral smoke, and visual poetry befitting a Michelin 3-star menu.