東風吹かば

Awamori is a distilled spirit unique to Okinawa, fermented with black koji mold. It has a high alcohol content and is often aged into “kusu,” or old liquor. It can be enjoyed on the rocks, with water, or in cocktails.

Osuimono is a traditional Japanese clear broth soup made from dashi. It consists of three components: “tane” (main ingredient), “tsuma” (supporting ingredient), and “suikuchi” (aromatic garnish), offering a refined, delicate flavor.

Kakigoori is a Japanese summer dessert made of shaved ice topped with syrup and other ingredients. Many specialty shops use natural ice, known for its fluffy texture.

Karaage is a popular Japanese frying method where ingredients are marinated, coated with flour or starch, and deep-fried. It usually refers to chicken but can also be made with fish or vegetables.

Kushiyaki refers to the Japanese grilling method of cooking skewered foods over charcoal or a grill. Yakitori is considered a type of kushiyaki, and a variety of ingredients like meat, fish, and vegetables are used.

Coffee jelly is a dessert unique to Japan, made by solidifying bitter coffee into jelly form. Unlike sweet jellies overseas, it features a subtle sweetness and mild bitterness. It’s commonly available at convenience stores.

Daifuku is a popular Japanese sweet made by wrapping red bean paste in soft mochi. It comes in many variations, such as strawberry daifuku and mame-daifuku.

Chanko Nabe is a hot pot dish made for sumo wrestlers, prepared in sumo stables. There’s no fixed recipe; ingredients and seasonings vary by stable. It’s hearty and nutritious, often including chicken, vegetables, and tofu.

Teishoku is a Japanese set meal including rice, miso soup, a main dish, and side dishes served on separate plates. Options range from grilled fish to sashimi and fried foods. It’s affordable and nutritionally balanced.

Teppanyaki is a cooking method where ingredients are grilled on a hot iron plate. It includes dishes like steak and okonomiyaki. At upscale restaurants, wagyu beef and abalone may be served and cooked before your eyes.

Tonjiru is a hearty miso soup with pork, commonly enjoyed as a homestyle dish in Japan. Ingredients vary by region and household, including vegetables and konnyaku.

Miso soup is made by dissolving miso paste into hot broth. It includes a variety of ingredients like tofu, mushrooms, or spinach.

Ramune is a Japanese carbonated drink sealed with a glass marble. Its unique opening mechanism and nostalgic look make it a symbol of summer in Japan.