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Food in Hokkaido: Local Cuisine and Where to Find It
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Probiotics in a Bottle: Japan’s Love of Lactic Acid Bacteria Beverages
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Taste of Fukuoka: Top Dishes and Where to Find Them
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Why Japanese Cuisine is Perfect for Corporate Gatherings
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Best Sushi in Tokyo: 2024 Edition
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The Art of Pickling in Japan (Exploring Different Tsukemono)
Traditional 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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Shizuoka
Sakura Shrimp (サクラエビ)
Sakura shrimp, a rare and delicate seafood, is a true gem of Japan’s Suruga Bay. Known for its unique flavor and vibrant pink color, it plays an important role in local cuisine and culture. In this article, we'll explore everything from ... -
Japan
Japanese Winter Food: Warming Dishes to Embrace the Cold
Picture yourself sipping a steaming bowl of ramen. Its rich broth warms your soul. You savor the tender noodles and flavorful toppings. Now imagine cozying up to a hot pot. You're surrounded by loved ones. Together, you dip various ingre... -
Hokkaido
Shishamo Smelt (ししゃも)
Shishamo smelt (ししゃも) is a rare and beloved fish found exclusively in Japan, specifically along the Pacific coast of Hokkaido. Known for its unique cucumber-like scent and enjoyed whole during its peak autumn season, Shishamo is a cu... -
Japan
Warmed Sake (燗酒)
Warmed sake, or kanzake (燗酒), is a cherished tradition in Japan, particularly enjoyed during the colder months. This method of heating sake brings out different flavors and aromas that can transform the drinking experience. In this art... -
Japan
Hot sake (熱燗)
Hot sake, or Atsukan (熱燗), is a cherished way to enjoy sake in Japan, especially during the colder months. By gently warming the sake, its flavors and aromas are enhanced, creating a richer, smoother drinking experience. But what’s the... -
Hokkaido
Imo mochi (いももち)
Imo Mochi is a delightful Japanese treat made from glutinous rice and sweet potatoes, resulting in a chewy and flavorful snack that captures the essence of autumn. With its soft texture and naturally sweet taste, this popular delicacy is... -
Gifu
Saba misoni (鯖の味噌煮)
Saba Misoni, or mackerel simmered in miso, is a classic Japanese dish known for its rich flavor and tender texture. By cooking mackerel in a savory blend of miso, sugar, sake, and ginger, this dish not only enhances the taste but also re... -
Kyoto
Nasu dengaku (なす田楽)
Nasu Dengaku is a delightful Japanese dish that showcases the rich flavors of grilled eggplant topped with a savory-sweet miso glaze. This seasonal delicacy is not only a feast for the senses but also a celebration of summer’s bountiful ... -
Kanto
Inada (いなだ)
Inada, or young yellowtail, is a beloved fish in Japan, prized for its light flavor and versatility in dishes like sushi and sashimi. Learning about this fish offers a deeper look into the country's rich food culture. In this article, we... -
Japan
Aji (鯵)
Aji (鯵), known as horse mackerel in Japan, is a staple in Japanese cuisine beloved for its mild flavor and versatility. Whether grilled, fried, or served as fresh sashimi, Aji offers a delicious experience in every bite. This article ex...