Niboshi are small, dried sardines used extensively in Japanese cooking, particularly for their intense umami flavor and slightly fishy aroma. These tiny fish are typically gutted and dried in the sun, resulting in a concentrated source of savory taste.
In the preparation of dashi, a staple Japanese broth, chefs simmer niboshi in water, to extract their rich, deep flavors, creating a robust and flavorful base for soups, stews, and various traditional Japanese dishes.