LocalFoodJapan– tag –

If you come to Japan, you can find that Menchi Katsu is sold at almost every supermarket and butcher shop. This dish may be the favourite of a lot of people since they were children. Sometimes it is called "minced katsu". Which one is co...

In today's world of globalization, it is local cuisine that continues to be deeply loved. Speaking of local cuisine, what is the first thing that springs to your mind? Takoyaki from Osaka? Hoto from Yamanashi? Or Taimeshi from Ehime? Tod...

Hamamatsu Gyoza is the signature local dish of Hamamatsu, Shizuoka. Cooks arrange these pan-fried dumplings in a ring, then pile boiled bean sprouts in the middle. Because the filling leans heavily on sweet cabbage, the taste stays light...

Senbeijiru is a local dish made by simmering Nambu senbei crackers in a broth made from meat, fish, mushrooms, and vegetables. Starting with Hachinohe City in Aomori Prefecture, it is often made in the southern region of the prefect...

Have you ever heard the word "okkirikomi"? Okkirikomi is a local dish of Gunma Prefecture. This time, we will introduce the characteristics and history of Okkirikomi's cuisine, and the origin of its name. Also, for those who want to...

Oita Prefecture, which has one of the top chicken consumption in Japan, is proud of its famous local gourmet "Toriten". However, it is interesting that each restaurant has a different flavor of "Toriten". This time, we want to introduce ...

Japan's food world goes far beyond sushi and ramen. One treat that often surprises first-timers is 水羊羹 Mizu Yokan, a chilled wagashi made from adzuki beans, kanten jelly, and sugar. It looks simple. But the moment you taste it, someth...

Hiyajiru is a chilled miso-based soup from Miyazaki Prefecture. Cooks blend grilled fish, roasted miso, sesame, and cold dashi, then pour it over barley rice. Cucumber, tofu, and fresh herbs complete this classic summer dish. Picture a 3...

Melon pan is a Japanese sweet bread with a crisp cookie crust and a soft, fluffy center. It usually does not taste like melon. You can find it in bakeries, convenience stores, and supermarkets across Japan. Melon pan (メロンパン) is a ba...

Akafuku mochi is a traditional Japanese sweet from Ise City, Mie Prefecture. It has soft mochi topped with smooth sweet red bean paste. Its wave-like shape represents the Isuzu River near Ise Jingu. Many travelers in Japan recognize the ...

Introduction to Osechi Osechi Ryori is indispensable for the Japanese New Year. Additionally, each dish has a congratulatory meaning. In addition to that, there are also manners in how to eat osechi dishes. In this article, I will teach ...

What is Mentaiko? Tarako and mentaiko are traditional Japanese seafood ingredients, consisting of pollock roe from the Alaskan pollock, of the cod family. The Alaskan pollock is not a pollock in itself, but a cod; thus, tarako and mentai...

Japanese use tofu in everyday cooking, but do you know about the type called shima tofu? Tofu is a standard ingredient in Okinawa Prefecture, differing in flavor, hardness, and size from regular tofu. In this article, we will introduce t...

Izushi sushi is a regional specialty and a point of pride for both Niigata and Hokkaido. The use of local ingredients, including the distinctive soybean sheet wrap, reflects the unique culinary traditions of these areas. Trying Izushi su...

Red konjac not only provides a visual twist but may also offer a nuanced flavor profile. This culinary innovation reflects the diversity and creativity present in Japan's rich food culture, where traditional ingredients are often adapted...

Introduction to Japanese Christmas Food Christmas is coming and everyone is preparing for their celebration feast to serve during the holiday seasons. What is Christmas? It is a celebration commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ, who is...

Hakata's specialty "Torikawa" is popular because its special texture: the outside is crispy while the inside is chewy and juicy. If you are living in Japan, you can easily find Tori kawa everywhere you go, from convenience stores to...

The "Traditional Natto Fermentation Method" explores the rich heritage and unique process behind one of Japan's most iconic foods. This article delves into the ancient techniques of fermenting natto that make it a staple in Japanese cuis...

Japan has so many sweet savory pancakes ever since a long time ago and Negiyaki is one of them. It is the thinner version of Okonomiya.

Introduction to Houtou Houtou is a traditional Japanese noodle soup made mainly in Yamanashi Prefecture. Basically, it is a kind of dish served hotly by boiling thick and short noodles with pumpkin and other vegetables in miso. However, ...