There’s no question that Japanese food is one of the best in the world. But what exactly makes it so unique? One reason might be the traditional way of cooking and preparing food, which has been passed down for centuries. From the carefully selected ingredients to the delicate preparation method, Japanese cuisine is known for being both healthy and delicious. This article was created in a collaboration with Josip from Japanko Official. He is a Japan travel guide and he strives to bring the best of Japan. In our collaboration we decided to talk more about traditional Japanese food, so let’s get started!
Best traditional Japanese food
There are so many delicious options to choose from when it comes to Japanese food. But which ones make the list of the best traditional Japanese foods? From hearty hot pot dishes to light and refreshing tempura, there’s something for everyone in Japanese cuisine. Here are seven of the best traditional Japanese foods you must try.
Sushi
Sushi is one of the most famous traditional Japanese fish dishes. It is made of vinegared rice and raw fish or vegetables. The name sushi was given to this dish because the rice is often seasoned with vinegar, which makes it sour in taste. Sushi was initially a kind of fast food for ordinary people in Japan. The use of sushi spread to other countries from Japan and today is one of the most widely recognized Japanese dishes. If you still haven’t tried it, what are you waiting for?
Udon
Udon is a traditional Japanese noodle dish and is often served with various toppings. Udon noodles are made from wheat flour, salt, and water. The dough is then formed into long rolls, which are cut into shorter pieces. These pieces are boiled and then served in a broth called “dashi”, made from seaweed extract and soy sauce. The toppings for udon can vary depending on the region but usually include sliced green onions, grated ginger, chopped mushrooms, thinly sliced bamboo shoots, tempura bits or shrimp, and various types of seafood such as clams or squid. Sounds delicious, right?
Unagi
Unagi is a Japanese delicacy that is made from the freshwater eel. There are many different ways to prepare it, but the most popular way is to grill the eels with kabayaki (蒲焼) unagi grilled eel sauce. Rich in protein, calcium, vitamins and known for boosting stamina, unagi is regarded as a summer power food in Japan.
Sashimi
Sashimi is another famous traditional Japanese dish, consisting of skinny slices of raw fish or meat, typically served with soy sauce and wasabi. Like all the seafood, it’s essential to serve and eat it while the fish is fresh. Pieces of fish will melt in your mouth, and the experience is otherworldly.
Tempura
Tempura is a type of Japanese food popular in both Western and Eastern cultures. It consists of seafood or vegetables that are battered and deep-fried in oil. It can also have other ingredients such as shrimp, squid, or sweet potato. The batter is typically made from wheat flour, rice flour, salt, and water. Tempura is served with dipping sauces such as ponzu sauce (citrus soy sauce) or tsuyu sauce (a mixture of soy sauce and rice wine).
Takoyaki
Takoyaki is a Japanese dish of balls of wheat flour dough filled with minced or diced octopus, tempura scraps, pickled ginger, and green onion. The dough is shaped into a ball using two wooden skewers like chopsticks and then grilled on one side until it’s browned and crispy before being flipped over to cook the other side. Although it has quite a few ingredients, you can eat it in a single bite.
Onigiri
Onigiri is a dish that can be found in different shapes and sizes. It is made from rice, seaweed, and sometimes other ingredients such as fish, pickled vegetables, or salted salmon roe. Onigiri is often wrapped in a bamboo leaf or plastic wrap to keep it fresh.
Why should you try classic Japanese dishes?
There is a reason why classic Japanese dishes remain popular even in this day and age. Aside from their delicious flavours, these meals are also incredibly healthy and easy to make. Here are some reasons why you should try classic Japanese dishes:
● They are low in calories and carbohydrates but high in nutrients.
● They are easy to cook and can be made in various ways.
● They are perfect for any occasion, from a casual dinner at home to a formal party.
● They are affordable and can be enjoyed by people of all ages.
