Experience the Charm of Japanese Food! Enjoyable Dishes and Eating Tips for Beginners
Ramen, sushi, tempura… Japanese cuisine is rich in variety! But that’s not all. In fact, Japan is home to a wealth of traditional regional dishes.
In this post, Eri-san, a staff member from JPLT Online Japanese Language School, will introduce the charms of Japanese food.
What is Japanese Food?
Japanese food is becoming increasingly popular worldwide. Many people have heard of sushi and ramen at least once. However, the charm of Japanese cuisine goes beyond these dishes. The delicate seasonings that make use of seasonal ingredients, as well as the beautifully arranged presentation, are some of the deep attractions of Japanese food.
What Makes Japanese Food So Special?
The charm of Japanese food is difficult to express in just one word, but here are some key points:
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Seasonal Ingredients: Japan has distinct seasons, so you can enjoy seasonal ingredients throughout the year.
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Well-Balanced Nutrition: The traditional meal structure of “ichiju-sansai” (one soup, three sides) is nutritious and healthy.
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Visual Beauty: Attention to the presentation of dishes, such as the use of special dishes and arrangements, is one of the attractions.
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Diverse Cooking Methods: With various cooking methods such as simmering, grilling, and steaming, Japanese food offers endless enjoyment.
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Rich in Fermented Foods: Fermented foods such as miso, soy sauce, and natto are abundant, providing benefits for digestive health.
Basic Knowledge of Japanese Food
To enjoy Japanese food more fully, here are some basic things to know:
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Ichiju-Sansai: A typical meal consists of rice, soup, a main dish, and side dishes.
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Chopstick Etiquette: There are proper manners for using chopsticks.
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Seasonings: Various seasonings such as soy sauce, miso, mirin, and sugar are commonly used.
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Tableware: The type of tableware can influence the taste and atmosphere of the meal.
Recommended Dishes for Beginners
Japanese cuisine offers countless delicious dishes, but here are some recommended ones for beginners:
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Sushi: One of Japan’s most iconic dishes, sushi is made by placing fresh seafood on top of vinegared rice.
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Ramen: There are many varieties, and the taste changes depending on the region.
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Tempura: A dish made by deep-frying vegetables or seafood in a light batter.
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Sukiyaki: A hot pot dish where beef and vegetables are simmered in a sweet and savory sauce.
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Udon: Thick noodles often served in soup or stir-fried.
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Soba: Thin noodles served in soup or cold with dipping sauce.
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Donburi: A rice bowl dish topped with a variety of ingredients.
How to Eat Japanese Food
The way you eat Japanese food varies depending on the dish, but here are some general tips to keep in mind:
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Proper Chopstick Use: Always use chopsticks correctly.
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Slurp Soup and Noodles: It’s common to slurp when eating soup or noodles.
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Eat Rice from a Bowl: Serve rice in a bowl and eat directly from it.
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Use a Chopstick Rest: Always use a chopstick rest when placing chopsticks on the table.
Tips for Enjoying Japanese Food
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Learn About Japanese Food Culture: Understanding the history and culture of Japanese food will make it even more enjoyable.
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Learn About Japanese Ingredients: Japan offers a wide variety of delicious seasonal ingredients.
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Attend Japanese Cooking Classes: Participating in cooking classes allows you to try making Japanese dishes yourself.
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Eat with Japanese People: Sharing a meal with Japanese people is a great way to experience the culture firsthand.
Conclusion
Japanese food is not only about taste but also about appreciating its beauty, seasonality, and rich variety of ingredients. It’s not just about filling your stomach—it’s about the history, tradition, and creative cooking methods that enhance its charm. The seasonal dishes made with ingredients tied to Japan’s natural environment reflect the beauty and taste of the country.
Japanese cuisine is also recognized for its health benefits, including the balanced “ichiju-sansai” meal structure and the abundant use of fermented foods that contribute to good digestion. Through food, you can experience Japanese culture and values.
For those trying Japanese food for the first time, start with popular dishes like sushi, tempura, or ramen, and gradually challenge yourself to try more diverse dishes. By learning the proper use of chopsticks and eating manners, you can enhance your enjoyment of Japanese food, and by developing an interest in Japan’s food culture and learning more about it, you can truly appreciate the deep charm of Japanese cuisine.
As you enjoy Japanese food, take time to reflect on the culture and history behind it.
