Japanese Food: 7 Iconic Dishes Every Food Lover Should Know

Japanese cuisine has captured the hearts (and stomachs) of food lovers worldwide. Renowned for its fresh ingredients, balanced flavours, and meticulous presentation, Japanese food is not simply a meal – it’s an art form. While many are familiar with sushi and ramen, Japanese cuisine features a vast array of regional specialties and national favourites that every food lover should know. Below, Maki & Ramen introduces patrons to seven must-try traditional Japanese dishes. Learn more about these iconic eats’ origins, preparation, and flavour profiles to better appreciate authentic Japanese cooking.

Ramen: The Soul-Warming Bowl That Conquered Hearts

More than just noodles in broth, ramen is an art form that captures the essence of Japanese culinary mastery. Each region of Japan has its own signature style, from the rich, creamy Tonkotsu of Fukuoka to the soy-based sophistication of Tokyo’s shoyu ramen. The magic lies in the harmony of handcrafted noodles, meticulously prepared broths that simmer for hours, and carefully chosen toppings like tender chashu pork, seasonal vegetables, and the perfect ajitsuke tamago (marinated egg). Whether you prefer the velvety richness of pork bone broth, the deep umami of miso, or the light clarity of shio (salt-based) ramen, each bowl tells its own story through layers of flavor that have made this dish a global sensation.

Sushi & Sashimi: Perfect Flavours Without Being Complicated

When you think of Japanese food, sushi is likely the first thing that comes to mind. While sushi is made with vinegared rice paired with raw fish, vegetables, or eggs, sashimi features thinly sliced raw fish or meat served without rice. The key to exceptional sushi or sashimi is its freshness and perfect balance of never overly complicated flavours. Must-try variations include nigiri (a slice of fish over pressed rice), maki (seaweed-wrapped rolls), temaki (hand rolls), and uni sushi (sea urchin). Be sure to pair your sushi or sashimi with wasabi, soy sauce, and pickled ginger for the ultimate flavour experience.

Get in a Festive Mood With Street-Friendly Yakisoba

Yakisoba is a stir-fried noodle dish that is a beloved staple of many Japanese street festivals. The dish typically features wheat noodles, tender pork, cabbage, carrots, and other crisp vegetables, all stir-fried to perfection and seasoned with a savoury and slightly sweet sauce. From adding additional vegetables to substituting chicken or shrimp for the pork, it can be customised to suit any taste. Yakisoba delights locals and visitors alike with its versatility and association with festive occasions. It has become an iconic dish that people look forward to enjoying during festivals and other events. With its tantalising aroma and taste, yakisoba is a must-try for food lovers seeking Japan’s vibrant, diverse flavours.

Enjoying the Matcha Flavour Beyond the Tea Cup

Although not technically a dish, matcha (powdered green tea) is integral to Japanese cuisine. From traditional tea ceremonies to modern desserts like matcha ice cream, this vibrant green ingredient is versatile and beloved worldwide. Rich in antioxidants and steeped in tradition, matcha represents Japanese culture’s essence. Its earthy, slightly bitter taste pairs beautifully with sweets, creating a harmonious balance in dessert flavours. Must-try matcha treats include matcha-flavoured mochi, matcha parfait, matcha lattes, and the matcha crème brulée found on Maki & Ramen’s menu. When visiting Japan, a trip to Kyoto (the home of matcha) is a must for most matcha enthusiasts.

Takoyaki: An Irresistible Treat to Make Your Mouth Water

Takoyaki is a delightful bite-sized snack originating from Osaka that will leave you craving more. These golden-brown balls are made from a savoury batter filled with tender pieces of octopus, green onions, and other delicious ingredients. Cooked in specialised takoyaki pans, these little balls are expertly flipped and shaped into perfectly round spheres, resulting in a crispy exterior with a soft, gooey center. Takoyaki is typically served drizzled with a sweet, tangy sauce and mayonnaise and sprinkled with bonito flakes and nori seaweed. The result is an irresistible treat capturing the essence of Japanese street food. Indulge in the joy of popping these mouthwatering morsels into your mouth today!

You Can’t Go Wrong With Light, Airy Tempura & Sauce

Tempura is a standout in Japanese cuisine for its light, airy batter that yields incredibly crispy, golden pieces of seafood or vegetables. This dish is deep-fried mastery at its finest, combining simplicity with indulgence. First introduced to Japan by Portuguese missionaries in the 16th century, tempura quickly became a culinary icon due to its meticulous preparation. The secret lies in the thin batter made of ice-cold water and flour, fried at just the right temperature. Popular tempura ingredients include shrimp, sweet potato, eggplant, and mushrooms. Tempura is often served with a dipping sauce called tentsuyu, made with soy sauce, dashi, and mirin, which perfectly complements the fried flavours.

Donburi Rivals Ramen in Japanese One-Bowl Comfort Foods

Meaning “bowl” in Japanese, donburi is a delightful dish consisting of a bowl of steamed rice topped with various ingredients. This popular one-bowl meal rivals ramen for a harmonious combination of flavours and textures. From savoury teriyaki chicken or beef to tempura, grilled eel (unagi), or even raw fish (sashimi), there’s a donburi variation to suit every palate. The ingredients are often simmered in a delicious sauce or served with a runny egg on top, adding a rich and creamy touch to the dish. Donburi is a true comfort food showcasing Japanese cuisine’s heart and soul.

Sample These Delights & Other Japanese Food at Maki & Ramen

Exploring Japanese cuisine is like taking a flavourful trip through the country’s rich history and culture. Each dish tells a unique story connecting the past and the present. Want to savour some of these iconic dishes for yourself? Plan your next dining adventure at the Maki & Ramen restaurant nearest you. With locations in Leeds, Manchester, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen, and Birmingham, Maki & Ramen offers an authentic Japanese dining experience without leaving the UK. Try one of these must-haves today!