Unraveling the intriguing flavours of Japan

Japanese cuisine is celebrated worldwide for its artful presentation, delicate flavours, and the meticulous attention to detail in every dish. Beyond sushi and ramen, Japan boasts a diverse culinary landscape with a myriad of unique and intriguing dishes. So, whether you're an adventurous eater or simply curious about the world of Japanese cuisine, these dishes offer a glimpse into the vast and extraordinary world of Japanese gastronomy.

Okonomiyaki

Often referred to as a Japanese savory pancake, okonomiyaki is a versatile and customisable dish that originated in Osaka. The word "okonomi" means "what you like" or "what you want," emphasising the dish's flexibility. The batter is made from flour, grated yam, shredded cabbage, and various ingredients like meat, seafood, or cheese. It is cooked on a griddle and topped with mayonnaise, okonomiyaki sauce, seaweed flakes, and bonito flakes, resulting in a delicious and visually appealing creation.

Natto

Natto is a polarising dish made from fermented soybeans and is renowned for its distinct aroma and sticky texture. This dish is an acquired taste, with its pungent scent and gooey consistency. Typically eaten with rice, natto is often garnished with mustard, soy sauce, and chopped green onions. Rich in probiotics, natto is praised for its potential health benefits and is a staple in Japanese breakfast cuisine.

Gyundon

The Japanese beef-and-rice bowl, gyudon, is a classic Japanese fast food that’s both comforting and hearty. Consisting of thin slices of beef, tender and sweet onions, and a garnish of bright-tasting benishoga (pickled red ginger) all atop a bowl of steamed white rice, gyudon is a crowd-pleaser. Gyudon is just one of many types of Japanese rice bowl dishes, aka donburi.

Sukiyaki

This Japanese hot pot dish is ideal for social dining, with raw beef, noodles, and vegetables cooked at your table in a shallow iron pot of boiling broth made from soy sauce, sugar, and a type of rice wine for cooking called mirin. The thin strips of beef are usually dipped in raw, beaten egg after cooking.

Ikayaki

A beloved variety of Japanese street food is the delectable grilled squid known as ikayaki. This culinary delight features different squid types and sizes, with presentation styles ranging from chopped squid rings to skewered whole pieces.  Typically accompanied by soy or teriyaki sauce, or a traditional Japanese marinade comprising rice wine, miso paste, ginger, and soy sauce, the squids are swiftly prepared on the grill, resulting in a tender and plump texture.

Tekkadon

Tekkadon is a simple Japanese dish that consists of steamed, vinegar-flavored rice that is topped with pieces of sashimi-style, raw tuna. Typically adorned with nori seaweed strips and sliced scallions, the dish is commonly served alongside a side of soy sauce. Tekkadon belongs to the group of donburi dishes, and it can be enjoyed as a light main course.

— kushmita@khaleejtimes.com

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