People who love trying out new food must have heard about Japanese dishes. Besides other beauty it offers, Japan is famous for its food. The dishes discussed in this article are simple, delicate, and made with fresh ingredients. Because of their significance, they are officially considered a national food tradition by the United Nations.
The capital – Tokyo – is home to some of the best restaurants in the world. If you plan to travel or move to this beautiful country, look at the ten most popular foods you have to try in Japan.
If you are considering Japan your home, you won’t run out of different combinate to try any time soon. If you have already decided to leave the US for good and move to Japan, make sure to start planning your household relocation on time. Professional moving assistance will always help you transport your belongings overseas.
- Sushi
Most people have heard about sushi, but many have never tried it. The popularity of this dish expanded to all continents, making it one of the most popular foods in the world. Tasting traditional sushi rolls might even be one of the many reasons to move to Japan.
The best thing about sushi is that it can be made out of hundreds of different ingredients, so there’s a variety for everyone’s taste.
2. Sashimi
Just like sushi, sashimi is also one of the dishes Japan is known for. It is also made out of rice, but the ingredients are on the top of the sashimi roll. You should know it usually contains raw fish and fresh vegetables if you want to try it.
Sashimi comes in many varieties, but the one made with fish is the most popular. Your order will arrive with fresh ginger and wasabi.
3. All things tempura
The word “tempura” in Japanese means deep-fried. There are various types of tempura dishes in Japan, and they all include a coating of flour and egg and deep-frying. This is one of the best foods you have to try in Japan, especially if you are coming from the USA.
However, finding this dish on the menu can be tricky since many varieties are available. This is why you might need to learn some Japanese. If you like deep-fried food, this might be the perfect food for you.
4. Teishoku
This type of food is very popular as a family meal. Many Japanese prepare Teishoku for their family members since the meaning of the word is literally – a set meal. A combination of various ingredients in this dish makes it a perfect lunch or dinner.
It usually includes rice, miso soup, veggies, and fish or seafood. Since it resembles a tasting menu, Teishoku is one of the tastiest foods you have to try in Japan.
5. Unagi
You might have heard of this meal in one episode of “Friends.” Unagi is a traditional Japanese dish made out of fresh eel. Japanese serve it with rice and a variety of dips, making the eel taste more delicious. Locals believe that Unagi is one of the healthiest dishes you can try, especially during hot summer months.
6. Traditional Japanese noodles
Just like sushi, traditional Japanese noodles became famous all around the world. Those who haven’t tried it in a Japanese restaurant probably prepared the one from a local grocery store. You might know it as Ramen noodles, but the word for traditional Japanese noodles is Udon, and it’s one of the most popular foods you have to try in Japan. Depending on the season, the noodles are made out of wheat and served in hot or cold soup.
7. Fugu (blowfish)
This dish is so dangerous to taste that it’s only safe to have it in certified restaurants in Japan. Fugu fish is poisonous if you don’t cook it the right way. However, it is still one of the rare delicacies in the eyes of renowned chefs.
To get a license to prepare this dish, a chef needs to undergo rigorous training and learn how to handle the blowfish. So, if you are brave enough to try it, make sure to ask locals for a reputable restaurant in the city.
8. Yakitori
If you would rather stick to traditional meals, you should try Yakitori. These are small pieces of chicken on skewers. Various versions of this meal exist in other cultures, so it’s not one of the most traditional Japanese foods.
Since it’s effortless to make, you will find Yakitori food stands during various Japanese festivals since locals consider it excellent street food. If you are exploring the city on foot, this is one of the foods you have to try in Japan.
9. Miso soup
Small bites are not the only dishes Japan is famous for. Hot meals like soups are also a part of this country’s tradition. If you are looking for comfort food to make your heart feel warm, try out Miso soup. This dish comes in a few varieties, depending on the fresh ingredients available.
10. Gyoza
If you have ever ordered Japanese take-out food, you must have heard of traditional Japanese dumplings. Gyoza is made out of dough and shaped like half-moons. Chopped vegetables or minced meat are usually inside the dumpling. The best way to try them is to dip them into soy sauce or another dipping of your choice.
If you are eager to taste some of the most popular foods you have to try in Japan, you won’t be disappointed. Japanese cuisine is unlike any other, so this culinary journey will definitely be one to remember.
Author: Jassica Mendez