Local Food in Japan is based on fresh, local ingredients, with minimal processing, highlighting instead the natural flavors of the food. Fish, rice, noodles, and vegetables are some staples that make up the basis of most Japanese diets. Some popular traditional dishes include sushi, ramen, tempura, soba, tonkatsu and okonomiyaki.
Japanese cuisine emphasizes variety and balance. This is achieved through the use of five colors (black, white, red, yellow, and green), five cooking techniques (raw food, grilling, steaming, boiling, and frying), and five flavors (sweet, spicy, salty, sour, and bitter). These principles can be found even in a single meal of one soup and three sides paired with rice.
Sushi is one of the most famous foods to come from Japan. It originated from the process of preserving fish in fermented rice. Today it’s made with vinegared rice and fresh fish. Tempura is a dish of battered and fried fish or vegetables. Special care is given to the way the ingredients are cut as well as to the temperature of the batter (ice cold) and oil (very hot) for deep-frying.
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Jigokumushi (地獄蒸し)
Jigokumushi is a unique and traditional cooking method in Japan that uses natural hot spring steam to prepare food. Found in Beppu, one of Japan’s most famous onsen towns, this steaming technique brings out the natural flavors of ingredi... -
Seki saba (関サバ)
Seki Saba is a prized type of mackerel from Oita Prefecture, known for its exceptional freshness, firm texture, and rich flavor. Caught in the fast-moving waters of the Bungo Channel using traditional line fishing, this premium fish is c... -
Harami (牛ハラミ)
Harami (牛ハラミ) is a popular cut of beef in Japan, especially in yakiniku (Japanese barbecue), where its tender texture and rich umami flavor make it a favorite among meat lovers. With its perfect balance of lean meat and fat, harami o... -
Hana sushi (花寿司)
At first glance, hana sushi might look like a delicate piece of art rather than something you’d expect to eat. But in Japan, this beautifully crafted roll has a special place at celebrations and seasonal gatherings. With vibrant colors a... -
Bonjiri (ぼんじり)
Bonjiri is a flavorful and juicy cut of chicken enjoyed in Japan, especially as yakitori. Known for its rich taste and unique texture, this bite-sized delicacy has a special charm that sets it apart from other chicken cuts. Whether you'r... -
Hitan sushi (ひたん寿司)
Hitan Sushi is a unique style of sushi from Hita City, Oita Prefecture, that showcases the region’s fresh, local ingredients. Unlike traditional sushi, it features creative combinations like pickled mustard greens wrapped around vinegare... -
Saikoro steak (サイコロステーキ)
Steak is popular among many because of its savory flavor and fatty taste. Among steaks, many people are probably familiar with diced steak, a type of steak shaped like a cube. Saikoro steak, or "diced steak," is a popular Japanese dish k... -
Mino (ミノ)
Mino, the first stomach of a cow, is a popular delicacy in Japan, especially in yakiniku restaurants. Known for its satisfying chewiness and rich flavor, it has become a staple of horumon cuisine, enjoyed grilled or in various dishes. Bu... -
Tebichi soba (てびちそば)
Tebichi Soba is a beloved Okinawan dish that brings together the tender richness of simmered pig's trotters and the comforting flavors of Okinawa soba noodles. With its unique blend of textures and traditional roots, this dish captures t... -
Zabuton (ざぶとん)
If you’re a fan of Japanese yakiniku, you may have heard of zabuton—a rare and highly prized cut of beef. Known for its incredible marbling and melt-in-your-mouth texture, this special part of the shoulder loin offers a rich, juicy flavo...