When it comes to cooking fish, Japan has a rich culinary tradition that offers a wide range of delicious and flavorful options. From traditional dishes like sushi and sashimi to hearty stews and curries, Japanese cuisine has something for every seafood lover. In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouthwatering Japanese fish recipes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy dinner or a special occasion meal, these recipes showcase the best of Japan’s fish cooking techniques, from grilling and pan-searing to steaming and braising. So let’s dive in and explore the wonderful world of Japanese fish cuisine!
Grilled Miso-Marinated Black Cod
A harmonious blend of sweet and savory flavors, this grilled miso-marinated black cod recipe is a symphony on the palate. With its tender texture and rich flavor profile, it’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 pieces of black cod fillet (about 6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup white miso paste
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp sake or dry white wine
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup water
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine miso paste, soy sauce, sake, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Blend until smooth.
2. Place the cod fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove the cod from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Grill the cod for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Teriyaki Salmon with Sesame Seeds
This recipe combines the rich flavors of teriyaki sauce with the nutty taste of sesame seeds, creating a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tsp sesame oil
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.
5. Brush the mixture evenly over the salmon fillets.
6. Sprinkle sesame seeds over the top of each fillet.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Japanese-Style Fried Mackerel
This recipe is a popular Japanese dish that yields crispy and flavorful mackerel. The combination of light batter, sweet soy sauce, and savory sake creates an unforgettable culinary experience.
Ingredients:
– 4 mackerel fillets (about 1 pound)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 cup ice-cold soda water
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sake
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Sesame seeds and grated daikon (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the mackerel into bite-sized pieces.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, and soda water to make the batter.
3. Dip each mackerel piece into the batter, making sure it’s fully coated.
4. Fry the battered mackerel in hot oil (350°F) for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown.
5. In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, sake, sugar, and garlic. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
6. Remove the fried mackerel from the oil and toss with the sweet soy sauce mixture.
7. Sprinkle sesame seeds and grated daikon (if using) on top before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Steamed Sea Bass with Ginger and Scallions
This Asian-inspired recipe perfectly balances the delicate flavor of sea bass with the pungency of ginger and the crunch of scallions. A flavorful and healthy meal that’s ready in no time!
Ingredients:
– 4 sea bass fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 inches piece of fresh ginger, peeled and sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat steamer basket with 2 cups of water.
2. In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce and olive oil.
3. Place a sea bass fillet in the steamer basket.
4. Arrange sliced ginger and chopped scallions on top of the fish.
5. Brush the soy sauce mixture evenly over the fish and garnish with additional scallions if desired.
6. Steam for 8-10 minutes or until fish is cooked through and flakes easily.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Spicy Tuna Sashimi Salad
Experience the bold flavors of Japan with this refreshing Spicy Tuna Sashimi Salad, perfect for a quick and easy appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound sashimi-grade tuna, sliced into thin pieces
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds and pickled ginger for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sriracha sauce, and sesame oil.
2. Arrange the tuna slices on a serving plate or platter.
3. Drizzle the soy-sriracha mixture evenly over the tuna.
4. Top with thinly sliced red onion and chopped cilantro.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with sesame seeds and pickled ginger, if desired.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required!)
Serve immediately and enjoy!
Pan-Seared Yellowtail with Ponzu Sauce
This Japanese-inspired dish combines the delicate flavor of yellowtail with the tangy and citrusy notes of ponzu sauce, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.
Ingredients:
– 4 yellowtail fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup ponzu sauce
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp sake or dry white wine
– 1 tsp sugar
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for pan-frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
2. Season the yellowtail fillets with salt and pepper on both sides.
3. Add 1 tbsp of vegetable oil to the preheated pan, then sear the yellowtail for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. In a small saucepan, combine ponzu sauce, soy sauce, sake or white wine, sugar, and grated ginger. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
5. Serve the pan-seared yellowtail with the ponzu sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Braised Fish in Soy and Mirin (Nitsuke)
A classic Japanese cooking method that results in tender, flavorful fish with a rich, savory sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 pieces of white fish (such as cod or tilapia), cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup mirin
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons sake (Japanese rice wine)
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine soy sauce, mirin, water, sake, sugar, ginger, and garlic.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the fish pieces and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
4. Remove from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
5. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Japanese Fish Tempura with Daikon Radish
Experience the delightful combination of crispy tempura batter and tender fish paired with a refreshing crunch from daikon radish. This recipe is a perfect blend of Asian flavors and textures.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound firm white fish (such as cod or tilapia), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup ice-cold soda water
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 1 large daikon radish, peeled and sliced into thin rounds
– Tempura dipping sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt.
2. Gradually add soda water to the dry mixture, whisking until smooth.
3. Dip fish pieces into the batter, allowing excess to drip off.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry battered fish in batches until golden brown (about 3-4 minutes per batch).
6. Remove fried fish from oil and place on paper towels to drain.
7. Serve hot with daikon radish slices and tempura dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Grilled Sardines with Shiso Leaves
This simple yet elegant recipe combines the rich flavor of grilled sardines with the subtle bitterness of shiso leaves, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. Perfect as an appetizer or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 sardines (fresh or canned)
– 1/4 cup shiso leaves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Rinse sardines under cold water, pat dry with paper towels, and place on the grill.
3. Brush both sides of the sardines with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, rinse shiso leaves under cold water and chop into small pieces.
6. Once sardines are done, place them on a plate and top with chopped shiso leaves.
7. Squeeze lemon juice over the dish and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Salmon Teriyaki Donburi (Rice Bowl)
A flavorful and savory Japanese-inspired dish, Salmon Teriyaki Donburi is a delightful combination of grilled salmon, sweet teriyaki sauce, and fluffy rice. This recipe serves one.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound salmon fillet
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1 cup cooked Japanese short-grain rice
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sake (or dry white wine)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds and thinly sliced green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sake, brown sugar, grated ginger, and sesame oil.
3. Brush the salmon fillet with the teriyaki mixture and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill the salmon for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Cook Japanese short-grain rice according to package instructions.
6. Slice the grilled salmon into thin pieces.
7. Serve the salmon on top of a bed of cooked rice.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes.
Simmered Fish with Vegetables (Nizakana)
This traditional Japanese recipe is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines tender fish with a variety of colorful vegetables. Simmering the ingredients together creates a rich broth that’s packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fish fillets (such as cod or tilapia), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as green beans, zucchini, and mushrooms)
– 4 cups water or fish stock
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add fish pieces; cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until slightly browned.
4. Add carrots, potatoes, and mixed vegetables; stir to combine.
5. Pour in water or stock; bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until fish is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
6. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Japanese-Style Fish Curry
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Japanese cuisine with the comfort of a warm, spicy curry. A perfect blend of East meets West, this dish is sure to delight your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb fish fillet (cod or tilapia work well), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 cup Japanese curry roux mix
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the onions, garlic, and ginger; cook until the onions are translucent.
2. Add the fish pieces; cook until they’re cooked through, about 3-4 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the curry roux mix and coconut milk. Add water to desired consistency.
4. Pour the curry mixture over the fish; stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Fish and Tofu Miso Soup
This Japanese-inspired soup is a hearty and comforting meal that combines the freshness of fish with the creaminess of tofu and the savory flavor of miso. Perfect for a cozy evening or a quick lunch, this recipe is easy to make and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb firm white fish (such as cod or tilapia), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 4 cups water or low-sodium broth
– 2 tablespoons miso paste
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Scallions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine fish, tofu, water or broth, miso paste, soy sauce, ginger, and garlic.
2. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and cook for 10-12 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Serve hot, garnished with scallions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Seared Tuna Tataki with Garlic Soy Dressing
Experience the bold flavors of Japan with this simple yet impressive seared tuna recipe. This dish is perfect for a quick and easy dinner or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 pieces of sushi-grade tuna steak (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup sake (or dry white wine)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Sesame seeds and thinly sliced scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a skillet or griddle over high heat.
2. Season the tuna steak with salt and pepper.
3. Sear the tuna for 30-45 seconds per side, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
4. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes.
5. Meanwhile, combine soy sauce, sake, garlic, brown sugar, and ginger in a small bowl.
6. Slice the seared tuna into thin strips.
7. Serve with Garlic Soy Dressing and garnish with sesame seeds and scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Japanese Fish Cake (Kamaboko) Stir-Fry
This simple and flavorful stir-fry recipe combines the savory taste of Japanese fish cakes (Kamaboko) with crunchy vegetables and a hint of soy sauce. Perfect as a quick lunch or dinner option.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 Kamaboko (Japanese fish cakes)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the sliced bell peppers and cook until they start to soften, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Add the Kamaboko and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes, until heated through.
6. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes
Grilled Fish Collar (Hire) with Salt
Grilled fish collar (hire) is a lesser-known delicacy that’s surprisingly easy to prepare. This simple recipe elevates the natural flavors of the fish with just salt and a hint of smokiness.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish collars (hires), skin removed
– 2 tbsp kosher salt
– 1 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Rinse the fish collars under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. Season both sides of each collar with kosher salt and black pepper.
4. Place the fish collars on the grill, skin side down (if present).
5. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily.
6. Remove from heat, let rest for 2 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes total
Fish and Mushroom Hot Pot (Ishikari Nabe)
A classic Japanese hot pot recipe that combines the freshness of fish with the earthiness of mushrooms, perfect for a cozy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb whitefish (such as cod or tilapia), sliced into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (shiitake, cremini, and oyster), sliced
– 4 cups dashi broth (or water)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sake (or dry white wine)
– 1 teaspoon mirin (sweet Japanese cooking wine)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper
– Noodles or rice for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine dashi broth, soy sauce, sake, mirin, and white pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced fish and mushrooms to the pot. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and the mushrooms are tender.
3. Serve hot with noodles or rice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet and Sour Fried Fish (Nanbanzuke)
A classic Japanese recipe that combines the crispy texture of fried fish with a tangy and sweet sauce, perfect for a quick and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 pieces of firm white fish (cod or tilapia), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Sweet and Sour Sauce (see below)
Sweet and Sour Sauce:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons ketchup
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, cornstarch, salt, and pepper.
2. Dredge fish pieces in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Fry fish pieces in hot oil until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
4. Drain fish on paper towels.
5. Serve fried fish with Sweet and Sour Sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Japanese Fish and Egg Rice (Gyudon-Style)
A classic Japanese comfort food dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor! This gyudon-style recipe uses fish, egg, and rice to create a hearty and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked Japanese short-grain rice
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 pound firm white fish (such as cod or tilapia), cut into small pieces
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, thinly sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
2. In a separate pan, whisk together eggs and soy sauce. Cook over medium heat until scrambled.
3. Add fish pieces to the egg mixture and cook for 2-3 minutes, breaking up any large chunks with a spatula.
4. Stir in sesame oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve cooked rice topped with fish and egg mixture. Garnish with thinly sliced scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Steamed Fish with Plum Sauce (Ume Shiso)
A classic Japanese dish that combines the delicate flavor of steamed fish with the sweet and tangy taste of plum sauce. This recipe is a great way to prepare fish for a quick and easy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 pieces of white fish (such as cod or tilapia), skin removed
– 1/2 cup plum sauce (ume shiso)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sake (or dry white wine)
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the fish pieces under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a small saucepan, combine plum sauce, soy sauce, sake, sugar, and grated ginger. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Place the fish pieces in a steamer basket. Steam for 8-10 minutes, or until cooked through.
4. Serve the fish with the warm plum sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Summary
Discover the delicious world of Japanese fish recipes! This collection of 20 mouth-watering dishes showcases the country’s love for seafood. From classic teriyaki salmon and grilled miso-marinated black cod to spicy tuna sashimi salad and pan-seared yellowtail with ponzu sauce, there’s something for every taste bud. Other highlights include braised fish in soy and mirin, Japanese-style fish tempura, and simmered fish with vegetables. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or an impressive dinner party, these recipes are sure to impress.
