There’s just something alluring about Japan, and there are many different aspects of the land of the rising sun that attract people from many walks of life. For some, it could be the history and beauty of the well-preserved buildings. Others may want to visit because of the vast technological advances that are not seen in any other country. Some are lured by the gastronomical adventures that the country may offer.
They say that if you want to get to know a culture, one of the first ways to go about it is to taste the people’s food. Food lovers must visit Bedok 85 market once and enjoy the different cuisines available there. It’s also something that everyone enjoys regardless if you’re someone who is completely obsessed with Japan and its culture or someone who is completely new to it. If you’re curious, here are some foods that you should try which are available online at TukTukMart.
Sushi and Sashimi
Whether you’re in Japan or everywhere else in the world, you can easily try sushi and sashimi because they are accessible. They are some of the most well-known traditional foods that the country has to offer. A lot of people tend to confuse the two, and while they are primarily made with raw fish, there are variations that you will learn once you try them out yourself. If you want to learn more about the differences between the two, read here for more information.
There are many types of sushi and sashimi out there, and it is up to you if you want to get the whole set or just get one kind to try. Getting a set meal is much more worth your money, especially in a traditional Japanese restaurant. You can also ask the servers or even the chef for recommendations.
Miso Soup
Japan has a lot to offer when it comes to soup, but the one made with miso is undoubtedly the most common and well-known. In fact, some Japanese people make miso soup an indispensable part of their breakfast or any other meal. It is made from miso bean paste and dashi stock and may come with tofu or other ingredients like pork, fish, or even clams.
Ramen
Most people are familiar with ramen even if it’s the instant kind. If you are and you like it, then you’d be surprised how authentic Japanese ramen would taste and feel like. The ones you can get from traditional stores in Japan are just on another level because it took centuries to perfect the craft of making ramen. One sip of the soup is all it takes to convert you into a fan. If you are in Japan, take advantage and line up to get some. However if you’re elsewhere, Japanese food and meal kits such as ramen noodle packs are available for you to order online as the next best thing.
The reason why ramen remains famous to this day is that the soup and noodles are so satisfying. The ramen soup takes hours and hours to make and is boiled with different ingredients for a rich and fulfilling taste. There is an art and science to the whole thing, and many may argue about the different “secrets” on what makes a ramen soup the best. If you want to read more about it, go here.
Pork Cutlets
If you’re a fan of fried food, then you’ll definitely enjoy tonkatsu. It is a dish that is similar to Western pork cutlets where a slice of pork is dipped in batter and then coated with bread crumbs and fried to crispy perfection. It is also something you can get at Japanese restaurants around the world, but if you want to get as authentic as you can, visit a specialist shop in Japan and taste the difference and quality yourself.
Rice Balls
It is called onigiri in Japan, and it is a lightly salted ball of rice that is often filled with salmon, cod roe, or dried plum and wrapped in a sheet of dried seaweed. It may not sound so appetizing from the description, but it is a favorite on-the-go snack that is easily accessible in convenience stores all over Japan. It is also cheap, so if you can find one in an Asian grocery store nearby, you can definitely try it out as well.
Candies
The candies are another must try because apart from the usual flavors, the Japanese are also fond of making quirky ones that are limited or seasonal. There are a lot to try, and if you’re overwhelmed where to start, consider getting a subscription candy box from Japan so you get new ones to try out every month. If you’re still planning and saving up to go to the land of many things quirky, these candies are a great motivation for you.
Something for Everyone
Not everyone can be fond of the usual Japanese fare and treats, but there is always something for everyone. Fried-food lovers should definitely research on popular karaage, and those who don’t like raw fish should definitely look into grilled foods as well. The key is to look for something that’s for you.
What are your favorite Japanese foods to eat that not everyone may know about? Sound off in the comments.
