Try These Traditions-Japanese Cooking Tips

One of the most defining characteristics of Japanese cooking is that it is extremely traditional. Little has changed in the field of Japanese cooking in the past few thousand years-many of the same techniques and recipes are used to this very day. The Japanese outlook on cooking is very similar to their outlook on other aspects of daily life and culture-stick with the traditional way. Though traditional Japanese cooking is different from the Japanese cooking we think of, it is delicious all the same.

Mouthwatering Japanese Meals

There are a few foods that are staples in the Japanese diet, and that have been for hundreds of years. One of these staples is rice. Rice is used in many recipes in Japan. There are also special Japanese cooking tools that are intended to be used specifically for rice. Such tools include a special rice paddle, called a shamoji, which is used to serve rice.

In addition to basic rice, there are many traditional Japanese dishes that are based on rice. Donburi is one such dish. Donburi is a bowl of cooked rice, with a wide variety of toppings put on top of the rice. Some of the most popular toppings are: tempura, egg and chicken, and beef. Occasionally, the dish will be topped with eel or salmon.

Noodle dishes are also very popular in Japan. Yakisoba, a deep fried noodle dish, is typically served with vegetables. Udon consists of traditional Japanese noodles made from wheat flour. They are very versatile and can be served either hot or cold, with a wide variety of toppings. Other types of Japanese noodle dishes include Soba, Ramen, and Somen.

Another staple in the Japanese diet is sushi. Sushi is generally the centerpiece in most Japanese dishes-though to say it is a major part of Japanese cooking would be incorrect, because sushi is not cooked at all! There are many different sushi dishes in Japan, all comprised of raw fish, rice, and sushi oil. Sashimi is another popular raw fish meal.

Traditions Around The World

Japanese cooking incorporates many traditional meals and techniques that have been around for decades, centuries, or even longer. During that time, Japanese cooking has and time to spread from Japan to other countries, like China and the United States. Unfortunately, the Japanese cooking we eat here is not the traditional cuisine eaten in Japan. In order to experience true Japanese cooking, one must venture to Japan for a taste of tradition.