Dashi and scallion Chicken Breast Cake

Prep everything first: chop the aromatics, measure the dashi and scallion elements, and pat the chicken breast dry so it colours well.

Warm the olive oil in a large pan over a medium heat and soften the onion and garlic until sweet and translucent, about 5 minutes.

Turn up the heat and add the chicken breast. Steam over simmering water until just tender and vibrant, then dress while warm.

Stir in the dashi stock and the rest of the dashi and scallion flavours, letting them cook out for a minute until fragrant.

Add the asparagus along with a splash of stock or water, then cook briskly until everything is tender and the sauce clings.

Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper and a little acid. It should taste bright, savoury and balanced.

Finish with the topping and serve while hot.