Japan is a country with a rich history and unique culture, and its cuisine is no exception. Japanese food is characterized by its use of fresh ingredients, as well as its focus on simplicity and balance. In recent years, Japanese cuisine has become increasingly popular around the world, and for good reason! Whether you’re looking for something healthy and light, or hearty and comforting, there’s a Japanese dish out there for you.
In this article, we’ll introduce 5 of the best Japanese dishes that you should try on your next visit to Japan. From sushi and sashimi to tempura and yakitori, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So without further ado, let’s get started!
Sushi
Arguably the most famous Japanese dish, sushi is a must-try for anyone visiting Japan. Sushi is made with vinegared rice and fresh seafood, and it can be enjoyed in many different ways. nigiri sushi, for example, is made with a slice of fish on top of sushi rice, while maki sushi is a roll of sushi rice and fillings wrapped in nori (seaweed). One of the best things about sushi is that there are endless possibilities for fillings and toppings, so everyone can find a type of sushi that they love. Whether you prefer your sushi simple or adventurous, there’s sure to be a perfect roll for you.
Ramen
Ramen is a hearty and comforting dish that originates in China. It became popular in Japan during the Meiji period, and today there are many different regional varieties of ramen to try. The most common type of ramen soup is made with a slice of pork or chicken-based broth, and it is typically served with noodles, vegetables, and a soft-boiled egg. Ramen has a rich and complex flavor, and the soup can be either light or hearty depending on your preferences. Whether you’re slurping down ramen on a cold winter’s day or enjoying a bowl of chilled noodles in the summer heat, this versatile dish is sure to please.
Tempura
Tempura is a type of Japanese fried food that is made by coating seafood or vegetables in a light batter and then deep-frying them. It is often served with a dipping sauce, such as tentsuyu (a mixture of dashi soup stock, soy sauce, and mirin), and it can be enjoyed as both an appetizer and a main dish. The key to making perfect tempura lies in the batter – it should be light and airy, with just the right amount of stickiness to adhere to the ingredients. Once the ingredients are coated in batter, they are typically fried in vegetable oil until they are crisp and golden brown. tempura can be made with a variety of seafood and vegetables, but some of the most popular items include shrimp, squid, sweet potato, and zucchini. Whether you enjoy it as an appetizer or a main course, tempura is sure to delight your taste buds.
Teriyaki
Teriyaki is a type of Japanese cooking that involves grilling or broiling food with a sweet soy sauce glaze. It is a popular way to cook chicken, fish, and beef, and it can also be used to flavor vegetables. The word “teriyaki” comes from the Japanese words “teri”, which means “glossy”, and “yaki”, which means “grill” or “broil”. Teriyaki sauce is made by combining soy sauce, mirin (a type of rice wine), and sugar. The sauce is used to marinate the food before it is cooked, and it is also brushed on during the cooking process to create a glossy finish. When made with chicken, teriyaki is often served with steamed rice and vegetables. It can also be enjoyed on its own as an appetizer or finger food.
Tonkatsu
Tonkatsu is a type of Japanese fried food that is made by coating a pork cutlet in a breadcrumb batter and then deep-frying it. It is often served with a dipping sauce, such as tonkatsu sauce (a thick, sweet-and-sour sauce), and it can be enjoyed as both an appetizer and a main dish. Tonkatsu is made by marinating pork tenderloin or loin in a salt-water mixture for about an hour. The pork is then coated in a flour-egg mixture and then rolled in Japanese breadcrumbs called panko. The pork is then deep-fried in vegetable oil until it is golden brown. Tonkatsu is typically served with shredded cabbage, rice, and miso soup. It can also be served with a dipping sauce such as tonkatsu sauce, Worcestershire sauce, or soy sauce.
As you can see, there are many different and delicious types of Japanese cuisine to try. So next time you’re in Japan, be sure to sample some of these dishes! You won’t be disappointed.