Japanese cuisine is renowned for its delicate balance of flavors, vibrant colors, and attention to detail. From savory bowls of ramen to sweet treats like mochi, Japanese cooking has something for everyone. But what if you could bring a taste of Japan into your own kitchen? In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 authentic Japanese recipes that are perfect for home cooks of all levels.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out, these recipes will introduce you to the rich flavors and techniques of Japanese cooking. From classic dishes like homemade miso soup and traditional ramen, to more modern twists like grilled unagi don and matcha green tea mochi, there’s something for every palate and preference.
In this article, we’ll be sharing our favorite Japanese recipes, complete with step-by-step instructions and beautiful photographs to inspire you in the kitchen. So if you’re ready to explore the flavors of Japan, let’s get started!
Homemade Miso Soup with Tofu and Wakame
This traditional Japanese soup is a comforting and nutritious meal that can be enjoyed any time of the year. With its rich, savory flavor and tender tofu, it’s no wonder miso soup has become a staple in many households.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons white miso paste
– 1/4 cup cubed firm tofu
– 1/2 cup wakame seaweed (dried or fresh)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: noodles, green onions, and sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine water and miso paste. Whisk until smooth.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Add cubed tofu and wakame seaweed. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until tofu is tender.
4. Stir in soy sauce and grated ginger.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with noodles, green onions, and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Classic Chicken Yakitori with Tare Sauce
Classic Chicken Yakitori with Tare Sauce: A Japanese-Style BBQ Delight!
This recipe brings together the simplicity of chicken skewers and the bold flavors of Japan’s popular yakitori dish. With a sweet and savory tare sauce, this classic chicken yakitori is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sake (or dry white wine)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 10-12 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together chicken broth, soy sauce, sake, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Add the chicken pieces and let marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to several hours in the refrigerator.
3. Thread the marinated chicken onto the bamboo skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush the grill with vegetable oil. Grill the skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot with tare sauce (see below).
Tare Sauce:
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup sake (or dry white wine)
– 2 tablespoons mirin (sweet Japanese cooking wine)
– 1 tablespoon sugar
Mix all ingredients in a small bowl until smooth.
Traditional Japanese Ramen with Chashu Pork
Experience the rich flavors of Japan with this classic ramen recipe featuring tender chashu pork.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups dashi broth (or substitute with chicken or pork stock)
– 1 pound ramen noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 pound pork belly, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sake (Japanese rice wine)
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Green onions, bean sprouts, and pickled ginger for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the pork belly strips and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, soy sauce, sake, sugar, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the pork is tender and the sauce has thickened.
5. Cook the dashi broth in a separate pot or wok over medium heat.
6. To assemble the ramen, place cooked noodles into bowls. Add slices of chashu pork, green onions, bean sprouts, and pickled ginger on top. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Authentic Okonomiyaki with Cabbage and Pork Belly
Okonomiyaki, a popular Japanese savory pancake, is a staple in Osaka cuisine. This recipe combines the flavors of crispy pork belly, crunchy cabbage, and sweet okonomoy sauce for an unforgettable culinary experience.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup okonomiyaki flour
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup grated cabbage
– 2 slices of pork belly, diced
– 1/4 cup okonomoy sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sake (Japanese rice wine)
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and water to form a batter.
2. Add grated cabbage, pork belly, okonomoy sauce, soy sauce, and sake to the batter. Mix well.
3. Heat a non-stick pan or okonomiyaki grill with a small amount of vegetable oil over medium heat.
4. Pour in 1/4 cup of the batter mixture and spread evenly.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bottom is crispy, then flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
6. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Japanese Curry Rice with Tender Beef
A classic Japanese comfort food, this recipe combines tender beef, flavorful curry sauce, and fluffy rice for a satisfying meal. With its rich aroma and savory taste, it’s sure to become a staple in your household.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 medium-sized onions, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 cup Japanese curry roux
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup cooked Japanese rice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the beef strips in a pan with oil until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Set aside.
2. In the same pan, sauté the onions and garlic until softened.
3. Add the curry roux and water to the pan, whisking continuously. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Add the cooked beef back into the curry sauce and stir well.
5. Serve the beef and curry over cooked Japanese rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Fresh Sashimi Platter with Wasabi and Soy Sauce
Elevate your sushi experience with this simple recipe for a fresh sashimi platter, perfectly paired with wasabi and soy sauce. This dish is best served immediately to preserve the delicate flavors and textures of the raw fish.
Ingredients:
• 1 lb sashimi-grade fish (such as salmon, tuna, or yellowtail), sliced into thin pieces
• 2 tbsp wasabi paste
• 4-6 tbsp soy sauce (preferably Japanese-style)
• Freshly grated daikon radish and shiso leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Arrange the sashimi pieces on a large plate or platter.
2. Serve with wasabi paste on the side, allowing each guest to add their preferred amount.
3. Offer soy sauce in a small bowl for dipping.
4. Garnish with grated daikon radish and shiso leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (serve immediately)
Steamed Japanese Rice with Furikake Seasoning
Enjoy a flavorful and aromatic side dish with this easy recipe for steamed Japanese rice seasoned with furikake. This classic combination is perfect for accompanying your favorite Japanese dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Japanese short-grain rice (such as Koshihikari or Akita Komachi)
– 2 cups water
– 1 teaspoon Furikake seasoning (available at Asian grocery stores or online)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice thoroughly and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice and water.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and steam for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
4. Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains.
5. Sprinkle the Furikake seasoning evenly over the rice and stir gently to combine.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Unagi Don (Eel Rice Bowl)
Experience the rich flavors of Japan with this simple yet delicious Grilled Unagi Don recipe. This classic dish features grilled eel glazed with a sweet and savory sauce, served atop a bed of fluffy Japanese rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb unagi (eel), sliced into thick pieces
– 2 cups Japanese short-grain rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup sake (Japanese rice wine)
– 2 tbsp mirin (sweet Japanese cooking sake)
– 2 tbsp sugar
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the Japanese rice according to package instructions using a 2:1 ratio of water to rice.
2. In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, sake, mirin, sugar, and grated ginger. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Brush the eel pieces with the sweet soy glaze and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Serve the grilled unagi atop a bed of hot Japanese rice, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Handmade Gyoza with Crispy Skirts
In this recipe, we’ll guide you through the process of making mouthwatering handmade gyoza from scratch, complete with crispy skirts that add a satisfying crunch to each bite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup warm water
– Filling ingredients (see below)
– Vegetable oil for frying
Filling:
– 1/2 cup ground pork
– 1/4 cup finely chopped cabbage
– 1/4 cup grated carrot
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and warm water. Knead until a dough forms.
2. Divide the dough into small balls (about 10-12).
3. Roll out each ball of dough into thin circles.
4. Place a tablespoon of filling in the center of each circle.
5. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape, and press edges together to seal.
6. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
7. Fry gyoza for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until crispy and golden brown.
8. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Savory Takoyaki with Octopus and Bonito Flakes
Takoyaki is a popular Japanese street food that typically features crispy little balls filled with tender octopus. In this recipe, we elevate the classic by adding savory bonito flakes for added depth of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup takoyaki flour
– 2 eggs
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/2 cup diced octopus (or substitute with cooked squid or shrimp)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sake (optional)
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Bonito flakes, to taste
– Green onions, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and eggs until smooth.
2. Add water and mix until batter is free of lumps.
3. Heat a takoyaki pan or a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
4. Brush the pan with sesame oil.
5. Pour in 1-2 ladles of batter, spreading evenly to form small balls.
6. Place a few pieces of octopus into each ball and top with bonito flakes.
7. Cook for 3-4 minutes, until edges are crispy and centers are cooked through.
8. Serve hot with soy sauce and sake (if using), garnished with green onions.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Simmered Nikujaga (Japanese Meat and Potato Stew)
A hearty and comforting Japanese stew that combines tender beef, potatoes, and vegetables in a rich soy sauce-based broth.
Ingredients:
– 500g beef short ribs or brisket, sliced into thin strips
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cut into bite-sized chunks
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of sake (or dry white wine)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium heat.
2. Add beef strips and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add onion and garlic to the pot; cook until onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add potatoes, sake, soy sauce, sugar, ginger, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return beef to the pot and simmer, covered, for 1 1/2 hours or until meat is tender.
6. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 1 1/2 hours
Light and Fluffy Tamagoyaki (Japanese Rolled Omelette)
A classic Japanese dish that’s perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, tamagoyaki is a simple yet impressive rolled omelette filled with sweet and savory flavors. In this recipe, we’ll guide you through the process of making a light and fluffy tamagoyaki at home.
Ingredients:
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)
– 1 sheet of nori seaweed (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, salt, and sugar until smooth.
2. Heat a small non-stick pan over medium heat. Brush the pan with a thin layer of water.
3. Pour in the egg mixture and cook for about 30 seconds, until the edges start to set.
4. Use a spatula to gently lift and fold the edges of the omelette towards the center.
5. Repeat step 4 until the omelette is almost fully rolled up.
6. Slide the tamagoyaki onto a plate and serve with soy sauce (if using) and nori seaweed (if using).
Cooking Time: Approximately 5-7 minutes.
Authentic Chawanmushi (Savory Egg Custard)
Chawanmushi is a traditional Japanese savory egg custard dish that has been a staple at tea ceremonies and family gatherings for centuries. This recipe provides a simple and authentic way to prepare this delicate dessert.
Ingredients:
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup dashi broth (or chicken or vegetable broth)
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup sake (or dry white wine)
– 1/4 cup mirin (sweet Japanese cooking sake)
– 2 teaspoons grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 6-8 mushrooms (shiitake or cremini), sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a blender, combine eggs, dashi broth, soy sauce, sake, mirin, ginger, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth.
3. Pour the mixture into small, shallow ceramic cups or ramekins.
4. Arrange sliced mushrooms on top of each cup.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers are still slightly jiggly.
6. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Japanese-Style Karaage (Fried Chicken)
A classic Japanese street food, Karaage is a flavorful and crispy fried chicken dish that’s easy to make at home. This recipe yields tender and juicy chicken pieces coated in a light and airy batter.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup potato starch
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup sake (Japanese rice wine) or dry white wine
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, and potato starch.
2. Add water, soy sauce, and sake; mix until smooth batter forms.
3. Dip chicken pieces into the batter, ensuring they’re fully coated.
4. Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
5. Fry chicken pieces in batches for 5-7 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot with sesame seeds and chopped scallions (if using).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Homemade Onigiri with Salmon Filling
Onigiri, Japanese rice balls, are a staple snack or meal for many. This recipe combines the simplicity of making onigiri with the deliciousness of salmon filling.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked Japanese short-grain rice
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/2 avocado, mashed
– 1/2 can of salmon, drained and flaked
– Salt to taste
– Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the filling by mixing together the mashed avocado, flaked salmon, and salt.
2. Divide the cooked rice into small portions, about 1/4 cup each.
3. Shape each portion of rice into a triangle or oval shape.
4. Place about 1-2 tablespoons of the salmon filling in the center of each onigiri.
5. Fold the sides of the onigiri over the filling and press gently to seal.
6. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a no-cook recipe!
Delicious Oden Hot Pot with Assorted Ingredients
Experience the warmth and comfort of a traditional Japanese hot pot experience with this easy-to-make Oden recipe. Featuring an assortment of ingredients, including fish cakes, boiled eggs, and daikon radish, this dish is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
• 1 package of Oden broth mix
• 2 cups of water
• 4-6 assorted ingredients (see below)
• Assorted ingredients:
+ Fish cakes (2-3 pieces)
+ Boiled eggs (2-3 pieces)
+ Daikon radish (1 medium-sized piece)
+ Shiitake mushrooms (2-3 pieces)
+ Green onions
+ Seaweed (wakame or hijiki)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the Oden broth mix and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
2. Arrange the assorted ingredients in individual bowls.
3. Once the broth is simmering, have each guest add their preferred ingredients to the pot.
4. Cook for 10-15 minutes or until all ingredients are cooked through.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Traditional Soba Noodles with Dipping Sauce
Savor the simplicity of Japanese cuisine with this classic recipe for traditional soba noodles served with a savory dipping sauce. This dish is perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz soba noodles
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup sake (or dry white wine)
– 2 tablespoons mirin (sweet Japanese cooking wine)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook soba noodles according to package instructions using boiling water. Drain and set aside.
2. In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, sake, mirin, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce the sauce by half, stirring occasionally, until it reaches a thick glaze-like consistency (about 5 minutes).
4. Serve cooked soba noodles with the dipping sauce on the side. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Japanese Beef Sukiyaki with Vegetables
Experience the flavors of Japan with this classic sukiyaki recipe, featuring tender beef and colorful vegetables cooked to perfection in a savory broth.
Ingredients:
– 250g thinly sliced beef (such as ribeye or sirloin), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sake (or dry white wine)
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as mushrooms, carrots, bell peppers, and snow peas)
– 4 cups dashi broth (or beef broth) or water
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine soy sauce, sake, sugar, and vegetable oil.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the pan and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add the mixed vegetables and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until tender.
5. Return the beef to the pan and add dashi broth (or water) to cover. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until the beef is cooked through.
7. Serve hot over steamed rice.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Red Bean Dorayaki (Pancake Sandwich)
Experience the classic Japanese dessert with a sweet red bean filling sandwiched between two fluffy pancakes!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup red bean paste (anko)
– Sugar to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, eggs, and water until smooth. Add salt and mix well.
2. Heat a non-stick pan with a small amount of vegetable oil over medium heat.
3. Using a ladle, pour about 1/4 cup of the batter into the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes or until bubbles appear on the surface.
4. Flip the pancake and cook for another minute.
5. Repeat with remaining batter to make about 8 pancakes.
6. Spread a small amount of red bean paste onto one half of each pancake, then top with another pancake to create a sandwich.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Matcha Green Tea Mochi with Sweet Filling
Bring a touch of Japanese tradition to your dessert table with these tender mochi filled with a sweet surprise.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup glutinous rice flour
– 1/2 cup matcha powder
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– Filling of your choice (e.g. red bean paste, sweetened chestnut paste)
– Confectioner’s sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine glutinous rice flour and matcha powder.
2. Gradually add in granulated sugar and mix until well combined.
3. Add in water and knead the mixture until a dough forms.
4. Divide the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
5. Flatten each ball slightly to create a pocket for your filling.
6. Place a spoonful of your chosen filling in the center of each mochi.
7. Fold the mochi over the filling and press edges together to seal.
8. Dust with confectioner’s sugar before serving.
Cooking Time:
– Preparation time: 15 minutes
– Cooking time: None (mochi is traditionally served raw)
Enjoy your delicious Matcha Green Tea Mochi with Sweet Filling!
Summary
Discover the authentic flavors of Japan with these 20 recipes for home cooks. From comforting bowls of ramen and udon to savory dishes like chicken yakitori and grilled unagi, there’s something for everyone. Learn how to make traditional Japanese soups, such as miso soup and chawanmushi, or try your hand at making homemade gyoza and takoyaki. This collection also includes sweet treats like dorayaki pancakes and matcha mochi, as well as popular dishes like okonomiyaki and sukiyaki. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these recipes are sure to bring a taste of Japan to your table.
