Japanese cuisine is a true invitation to explore centuries-old flavors and culinary techniques. Through its japanese specialties, Japan offers a variety of dishes that combine freshness, simplicity, and refinement. Today, with Nishikidôri, we invite you to discover some of the essential traditional japanese dishes, authentic meals that reflect the richness and diversity of traditional japanese cuisine.
1. Sushi & maki: the iconic japanese dish
Sushi and maki are undoubtedly the most famous representatives of japanese food in Europe. These bite-sized delights combine vinegared rice, fresh fish, and sometimes vegetables or seaweed for the maki. Sushi can be served in various ways: as nigiri (fish placed on a ball of rice) or as rolls (maki). This is a dish that is both simple and sophisticated, perfectly embodying the finesse of japanese cuisine. Though ubiquitous in Europe, sushi is far from the only exceptional and umami-filled japanese dish.
Find our selection of authentic japanese products to make your sushi and maki HERE
2. Dashi: yhe base broth of japanese cuisine
Dashi is a light yet flavorful broth that serves as the base for many japanese dishes, such as soups, sauces, and marinades. Made from kombu (seaweed) and, in its more elaborate version, dried bonito and/or shiitake mushrooms, it is the foundation of traditional japanese cooking, offering an inimitable depth of flavor.
Find our selection of authentic japanese products to make your homemade dashi HERE
3. Ramen: a comforting classic
Ramen is another pillar of japanese gastronomy. These wheat noodles served in a savory broth can be topped with various ingredients: pork, eggs, vegetables, or seaweed. This comforting dish is particularly beloved for its balance of textures and flavors. Ramen can be purchased as a prepared pack for a quick and efficient meal or made from scratch at home.
Find our selection of authentic japanese products to make your ramen at home and discover our ramen recipe HERE
4. Onigiri: the simplicity of rice
Onigiri is a staple of japanese cuisine, often consumed as a snack or for quick meals. This traditional dish consists of a rice ball, usually filled with salmon, pickled plum, or seasoned with furikake. The combinations are endless. Onigiri is shaped by hand and often partially or completely wrapped in a sheet of nori. Perfect for an authentic japanese food experience.
Find our selection of authentic Japanese products to make your onigiri HERE
5. Miso soup: a comforting classic
Miso soup is another typical japanese dish found in most traditional meals. Made from miso paste (fermented soy, soy and rice, or barley), tofu, seaweed, and vegetables, this soup is a cornerstone of japanese cuisine, offering an intense and comforting umami taste.
Find our selection of authentic japanese products to make your miso soup HERE
6. Tempura: the lightness of frying
Tempura is a japanese specialty consisting of pieces of vegetables or seafood coated in a light batter and deep-fried. This dish is a perfect example of mastering textures: the exterior is crispy while the interior remains tender and delicate. Tempura is often served with a soy-based dipping sauce and grated daikon. The flour used enhances the flavor of the ingredients and is key to perfecting the best tempura. You can find it at Nishikidôri.
Find our selection of japanese tempura flour to make delicious homemade tempura HERE
7. Yakitori: japanese skewers
Yakitori are grilled chicken skewers, a popular specialty in izakayas (japanese pubs). Each piece of chicken is carefully grilled on a japanese charcoal barbecue, binchotan, offering a smoky and succulent flavor. This traditional japanese dish is often accompanied by a "tare" sauce that is either salty or sweet-salty.
Find our selection of sauces to accompany your yakitori HERE
8. Tonkatsu: the crunch of pork
Tonkatsu is a japanese dish consisting of a breaded and deep-fried pork cutlet (from the loin or rib), served with shredded cabbage and a delicious tonkatsu sauce (sweet and spicy). This comforting dish is a japanese classic loved by the whole family, with a golden crust and juicy interior.
Find our selection of Japanese sauces to accompany your tonkatsu HERE
9. Japanese curry: The revisited indian influence
Japanese curry is a rich and flavorful traditional japanese dish, influenced by indian curries but adapted to japanese tastes. This classic japanese dish is often made with pork, beef, or chicken, accompanied by vegetables such as carrots and potatoes. Of course, it is served with rice and has become an essential item on japanese menus.
Find our selection of japanese curry HERE
Japanese specialties are a true sensory journey, blending balance, finesse, and rich flavors. Whether you're a sushi lover, a ramen enthusiast, or a fan of tempura, every Japanese dish has its own story and place in Japan's gastronomic culture. Through these traditional Japanese dishes, you will discover the authenticity and diversity of Japanese cuisine, which continues to delight palates around the world.
Feel free to explore our selection of japanese products to recreate these typical japanese dishes at home and bring an authentic touch to your meals.
And you? What is your favorite japanese dish? Choose your easy Japanese recipe. Want to experience japanese cuisine 100%? Discover our selection of sake and japanese tableware.
