Japan is home to some of the most delicious and unique foods in the world. From sushi to ramen, Japanese cuisine has delighted food lovers across the globe. Here’s a closer look at some of Japan’s famous foods.
Sushi
Sushi is likely the most popular Japanese food abroad. This dish consists of vinegared rice, usually served with raw seafood such as tuna, salmon, or eel.
It can also be made with vegetables and egg. Sushi is typically served with soy sauce and wasabi, a spicy green paste.
Ramen
Ramen is a noodle soup that originated in China but has become popular all over Japan. Ramen noodles are made from wheat flour, salt, water and kansui which gives them their yellowish hue. The broth for ramen varies depending on region but commonly consists of pork or chicken stock along with other seasonings like soy sauce or miso.
Tempura
Tempura is a popular Japanese dish consisting of vegetables or seafood that are coated in a light batter and deep-fried. Common ingredients used for tempura include shrimp, sweet potato, eggplant, pumpkin, and mushrooms. The batter for tempura contains wheat flour and sparkling soda water which makes it extra light and crispy.
Okonomiyaki
Okonomiyaki is a savory pancake-like dish made from grated yamaimo (Japanese mountain yam) mixed with eggs, flour and shredded cabbage. It can be topped with various ingredients such as pork belly slices or seafood like squid or shrimp. Okonomiyaki is usually served with mayonnaise, okonomiyaki sauce (similar to Worcestershire sauce) and bonito flakes.
Each one offers its own unique take on traditional Japanese flavors that are sure to delight any palate. With so many options available it’s no wonder why Japan’s famous foods have become so popular around the world!