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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Toyama
Kintsuba (きんつば)
Kintsuba is a popular traditional sweet enjoyed in Japan, and it's commonly found in traditional Japanese sweet shops and at festivals. The combination of the sweet bean paste and the chewy outer layer makes it a delightful treat for tho... -
Japan
Hayashi rice (ハヤシライス)
Japanese cuisine is renowned for its diverse range of dishes, each offering a unique blend of flavors, textures, and culinary traditions. Among these, one dish that stands out for its rich and comforting taste is Hayashi Rice. Often cons... -
Japan
Mugitoro (麦とろ)
Even in the hot and humid season, this mugitoro rice is smooth and easy to enjoy. It's also highly nutritious, making it the perfect dish for this season when people tend to get sick. Let's explore the appeal of barley and rice, which ca... -
Japan
Shibazuke (しば漬)
Shibazuke is a popular side dish in Japan, often enjoyed alongside meals or as a flavorful topping for rice and sushi. Its vibrant appearance and unique taste make it a standout addition to traditional Japanese cuisine, where pickled veg... -
Shizuoka
Shizuoka cha (静岡茶)
Shizuoka cha is a brand name for the green tea produced in the Shizuoka prefecture. Yes, the Shizuoka prefecture also has the beautiful Mt. Fuji. Therefore, some of the plantations have great views. Japanese green tea is both tasty and h... -
Kyoto
Uji cha (宇治茶)
Uji Cha is a special tea from Japan that represents many years of hard work and expertise, making it famous for its great taste. This article will guide you through the lush green tea fields of Uji, where we'll uncover the secrets that m... -
Toyama
White shrimp (白エビ)
In the coastal waters of Japan, where culinary traditions and seafood expertise converge, lies a captivating gem of the ocean known as Shiro Ebi, or "white shrimp." Beyond its taste and visual appeal, Shiro Ebi carries cultural significa... -
Kanagawa
Shumai bento (シウマイ弁当)
In the diverse culinary landscape of Japan, where traditional and modern flavors seamlessly blend, the Shumai Bento stands out as a delightful merger of convenience and taste. This single-portion meal-in-a-box elevates the humble shumai—... -
Japan
Japanese Yakiniku (焼肉)
Discover the sizzling world of Japanese yakiniku, where the art of grilling meets the pleasure of communal dining. With its origins in Korean barbecue, this tradition offers more than just a meal—it's an immersive experience. The tantali... -
Japan
Karashi (辛子)
Karashi is a spicy Japanese mustard with a kick that might surprise you. Stepping away from the milder profile of Western mustards, Karashi offers a distinctive zest that has seasoned traditional Japanese dishes for centuries. Intrigued?...