Directions

• Combine 6 cups water, shiitakes, and kombu in a 3-quart classic-style donabe. Let stand for 30 minutes.
• Heat mixture, uncovered, over medium-low until steaming but not simmering (about 140°F), about 10 minutes. Cook 15 minutes, adjusting heat as needed to prevent simmering. Using a slotted spoon or spider, remove and discard kombu.
• Stir in dried smoked bonito flakes, if using, and continue cooking over medium-low until flavors are infused, dashi has a light smoky flavor, and liquid has reduced to about 4 cups, 12 to 15 minutes. Remove from heat; pour through a fine wire-mesh strainer into a bowl, reserving shiitakes for another use.
• Heat sesame oil in a 3-quart classic-style donabe over medium. Add garlic, ginger, and white scallion pieces. Cook, stirring constantly, until softened and fragrant, about 2 minutes. Push mixture to 1 side of pot, and add chile bean sauce to empty side. Cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in sake, incorporating garlic, ginger, and white scallion pieces; cook 1 minute. Whisk together miso and 1/4 cup shiitake dashi in a small bowl until smooth; set aside. Stir soy sauce and remaining 3 3/4 cups shiitake dashi into pot. Cover and bring to a simmer over medium-low.
• Uncover and stir in cabbage, mushrooms, and carrots. Add tofu. Cover and cook until tofu is heated through and vegetables are crisp-tender, 4 to 5 minutes. Stir in miso mixture. Using a spider or slotted spoon, divide vegetables and tofu between 2 serving bowls (about 2 cups each). Ladle about 1 cup of broth into each bowl; reserve remaining broth in donabe. Garnish with ground sesame seeds, chile oil, kurozu, pickled shiitakes, and green scallion pieces.
• Reheat remaining broth (about 1 1/2 cups) in donabe over medium-low until steaming. Add ramen to broth; let stand until heated through. Serve as second course with hot pot.