Japanese food is known for its delicious flavors, fresh ingredients, and beautiful presentation. If you’re a fan of Japanese cuisine or want to try something new, we’ve put together a list of the best Japanese dishes to try. In this article, we’re going to dive into what makes each of them so deliciously special.
Unveiling the Top 5 Iconic Japanese Foods
From well-known classics like sushi to tasty street food like takoyaki, Japanese cuisine offers a wide range of flavors. Each dish has a unique history and way of preparation, making Japanese food exciting to explore.
1. Sushi: A Symbol of Japanese Cuisine
Sushi is perhaps the most well-known Japanese dish worldwide. It usually consists of vinegared rice, raw fish, and vegetables, all rolled or topped neatly. Originally, sushi began as a way to preserve fish in fermented rice back in ancient Japan. Today, sushi has evolved into a fresh and vibrant meal, often enjoyed with soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger.
Interesting Fact: Sushi chefs train for years to master the art of sushi-making. They learn how to perfectly slice the fish, prepare the rice, and create the ideal balance of flavors.
2. Ramen: The Soul-Warming Noodle Dish
Ramen is a hearty and comforting dish made with wheat noodles, broth, and various toppings like sliced pork, green onions, and soft-boiled eggs. While ramen originated in China, it has become a staple in Japan, where each region has its own special style.
Nowadays, you’ll find ramen shops everywhere in Japan, and the flavors can vary from a rich pork broth (tonkotsu) to a light soy-based soup (shoyu). The fun part? You can customize your ramen with different toppings to make it just how you like it!
Interesting Fact: In Japan, slurping your ramen is a sign that you’re enjoying it. So, go ahead and slurp away!
3. Tempura: The Art of Light Frying
Tempura is all about crispy, light batter. This dish usually includes seafood or vegetables that are coated in a special batter and then fried to golden perfection. Tempura first came to Japan from Portugal in the 16th century and was adapted to fit Japanese tastes.
Today, tempura is a popular meal served with dipping sauce and a bowl of rice. Some tempura dishes even include unique ingredients like lotus root or shiso leaves. The key is to keep the batter light so it’s crispy but not greasy!
Interesting Fact: Traditional tempura chefs work quickly to ensure the batter stays cold, which is crucial for achieving the perfect crispiness.
4. Teriyaki: From Japanese Kitchens to Global Tables
Teriyaki is a cooking style where meats or fish are grilled or broiled with a special sauce made from soy sauce, sugar, and mirin (a type of rice wine). The name teriyaki comes from ‘teri’ meaning shine, and ‘yaki’ meaning to grill or broil, referring to the shiny, glazed look of the dish.
Originally from Japan, teriyaki has become popular worldwide. Today, you can find it served with chicken, beef, fish, or even tofu. The sweet and savory flavor is a favorite for many, and it’s perfect for those who want to try Japanese flavors without raw fish.
Interesting Fact: In Japan, teriyaki is often made with fish like mackerel, while in other countries, chicken teriyaki is more popular.
5. Takoyaki: Street Food to Cultural Staple
Takoyaki is a beloved street food in Japan, especially in Osaka. These are small, round balls made of batter and filled with pieces of octopus, tempura scraps, pickled ginger, and green onion. Cooked in special pans, they are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
Takoyaki first became popular in the 1930s in Osaka, and today, it’s enjoyed as a snack all over Japan. Often, it’s topped with a special sauce, mayonnaise, dried seaweed, and bonito flakes (dried fish flakes). It’s a fun, savory bite that’s perfect for sharing.
Interesting Fact: You’ll often see takoyaki cooked right in front of you at stalls, and the cooks skillfully flip the balls using small picks to make sure they cook evenly.
Visit Us at Sakura of Japan Teriyaki
Feeling tempted by authentic Japanese flavors yet? Swing by Sakura of Japan Teriyaki in the heart of New York City and grab a bite. Our delicious teriyaki dishes are the perfect blend of sweet and savory, packed with flavor, and made fresh to order.
Whether you’re a lifelong teriyaki fan or a curious foodie looking to try something new, we promise it’ll be a meal to remember. Come for the teriyaki, stay for the unforgettable taste—see you at Sakura soon!
