Explore Delicious Japanese Dishes You Can Sample and Attempt to Prepare at Home!
Japan is the land of mouth-watering cuisine, and if you're planning a trip, make sure to savor the delicious flavors of this amazing food culture. With a restaurant density that rivals none, Tokyo boasts Michelin-starred restaurants, street food, and everything in between. So, let's dive into the essential Japanese dishes you gotta try on your visit:
Sushi
When we think of Japanese food, sushi instantly comes to mind. Are there many kinds of sushi? You bet! Although most involve sashimi, or raw fish, some types, like inari sushi, do not. Maki rolls may be familiar to American tourists, but the most common in Japan is nigiri - sashimi paired with rice. For an unforgettable sushi experience, opt for kaiten restaurants where plates circulate on a conveyor belt, or high-end sushi spots in Tokyo.
Sushi-making is a true art form; you can even join a cooking class to learn the basics for impressing your friends back home.
Ramen
Ramen noodles might have started as an instant supermarket item, but in Japan, they can be so much more. The secret ingredient is dashi, or broth, made from a base of fish, miso, or pork at varying levels of saltiness and spiciness. And let's not forget the toppings, like egg, seaweed, pork, bean sprouts, and other goodies. For a unique experience, try tsukemen style and customize your flavor.
Many ramen joints don't operate like traditional eateries. Instead, you'll have to use a vending machine for payment before finding a seat and enjoying your delicious meal. Since ramen is everywhere, reasonably priced, and customizable, it's a perfect food to master during your stay in Japan.
Soba and Udon
Ramen's not the only noodle game in town. Soba (buckwheat noodles) and udon (wheat flour noodles) are popular, too. Soba can be enjoyed hot or cold, while udon is often served with a simple broth made with soy sauce. Toppings like tempura, green onions, and deep-fried tofu add that extra flavor kick. You can even take a cooking class to learn the art of making these heavenly noodles.
Tempura
Craving something battered and deep-fried? Tempura is the answer! With a wide range of versions, like shrimp, vegetable, and pumpkin, finding your favorite tempura will be a breeze. If you can't get enough, seek out restaurants that focus exclusively on this tasty treat.
Karaage
Japanese-style fried chicken - karaage - needs no introduction. Often served in bars and izakayas, karaage is usually breaded, boneless, and incredibly juicy. Get ready for a piping hot plate of chicken along with a lemon wedge and salt for customizing the taste.
Yakitori and Yakiniku
Carnivores, rejoice! Two popular meaty methods await: yakitori and yakiniku. Yakitori consists of small skewers of grilled meat, while yakiniku is similar to Korean barbecue, where you'll find a grill at your table for cooking your favorite cuts of meat.
Kobe Beef and Wagyu Beef
Confused about Kobe and Wagyu beef? Wagyu refers to a special kind of beef with high fat content, and Kobe beef comes from Wagyu cattle that meet certain standards. Kobe beef is unparalleled in tenderness and marbling, which makes for a super tasty meal. From steak to yakiniku to teppanyaki, you can find it in restaurants all over Japan. Remember, all Kobe beef is Wagyu, but not all Wagyu is Kobe.
Street Food & Cheap Eats
Don't limit yourself to high-end dining. Japan has tons of affordable tasty options like:
- Curry - Japan's version of curry is dark and served with katsu, or fried meat.
- Beef bowls - Inexpensive meat, rice, and onions can be found at places like Yoshinoya.
- Takoyaki - Osaka's streets come alive with takoyaki booths, serving up octopus balls that'll change your life.
- Unagi - Eel, fresh or with rice and sauce, can be found in Tokyo and Narita.
- Konbini - Affordable bento boxes, fried chicken, and snacks can be found at Japanese convenience stores.
Now that you're armed with this culinary guide, go forth and conquer the taste of Japan! And remember, there's no better way to explore Japan than through food. For tours and recommendations, check out our website. Happy traveling!
- Tokyo, known for its dense concentration of restaurants, offers an array of essential Japanese dishes, including sushi, ramen, soba, udon, tempura, karaage, yakitori, yakiniku, and Kobe beef.
- Sushi, a famous Japanese dish, comes in various forms, such as maki rolls and nigiri, made with sashimi and rice. To have an unforgettable sushi experience, try kaiten restaurants or high-end sushi spots in Tokyo.
- Ramen noodles, initially a supermarket item, evolve into a rich culinary experience in Japan, with many varieties of broth, toppings, and cooking styles, like tsukemen.
- To fully immerse in the Japanese lifestyle, consider joining a cooking class to learn sushi-making or mastering the art of noodle-making, such as soba, udon, and tempura.
- Don't forget street food and cheap eats like curry, beef bowls, takoyaki, unagi, and snacks from konbini. These affordable options offer a taste of Japan's diverse food culture, making it a perfect addition to your travel itinerary. For a memorable experience, follow travel tips and explore Japan's rich culinary scene.
