Japan, renowned for its rich cultural heritage and delectable culinary delights, is a destination that fascinates people worldwide. If you’re craving your favorite Japanese dishes but don’t want to break the bank on an expensive restaurant meal, there’s good news – you can easily prepare these mouth-watering dishes in the comfort of your own home! After all, cooking up a storm at home is not only budget-friendly but also allows for greater creative control.
To cater to this desire, I’ve curated a list of 27 must-try Japanese recipes that are surprisingly easy to make and require minimal expertise.
Oshitashi (Boiled Spinach with Sesame Seeds)
Indulge your loved ones in the delightfully nutritious Oshitashi, a dish that’s sure to become an instant hit. The secret to its success lies in its subtle yet irresistible flavor profile, which is perfectly balanced by the harmonious blend of soy sauce, mirin, and sesame oil. To achieve the ideal texture, simply blanch the spinach for 60 seconds before plunging it into a bath of icy water to extract excess moisture.
This thoughtful touch will prevent the dish from becoming soggy or overpowered by its bold flavors. With Oshitashi, you can be sure that your family and friends will crave the rich, savory taste of spinach like never before.
Yakimeshi (Japanese Fried Rice)
While simplicity is its hallmark, Yakimeshi – Japanese fried rice – is deceptively packed with flavor. This quick-cooking staple can be effortlessly prepared in under 10 minutes, making it an ideal option for any time of day: breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The secret to achieving the perfect texture lies in employing chilled, day-old rice, which refrigeration cleverly firms up, resulting in a crispy finish. A harmonious blend of sesame oil and soy sauce lends a rich, savory essence to the dish.
To elevate it further, consider adding eggs, ham, and green onions for a satisfying, filling meal that’s sure to hit the spot.
Onigiri (Japanese Rice Balls)
Onigiri, Japan’s beloved rice balls, boast an impressive range of uses. They’re just as suitable for inclusion in a bento lunchbox as they are as a dinner accompaniment or a satisfying standalone snack. What makes onigiri so versatile is the ability to enjoy them plain or filled with a variety of flavoursome ingredients.
For those looking to add some excitement to their rice balls, popular fillings include umeboshi’s tangy sweetness, the savory taste of salted salmon, and the rich flavour of salted cod roe. Interestingly, these triangular treats deviate from the more common round shape found in Western cuisine. To craft onigiri with a delicate and airy texture, it’s essential to shape them without applying excessive pressure.
Potato Korokke
Indulge in the irresistible charm of korokke, Japanese-style mashed potato cakes that effortlessly captivate even the most discerning palates. These bite-sized treats make for an excellent snack, starter, or accompaniment, offering unparalleled convenience. To craft these delightful orbs, combine mashed potatoes with beef and onion, then shape them into small spheres. Coat them in panko breadcrumbs and fry until they reach a golden brown hue, yielding a dish that’s both portable and delectable.
The end result is nothing short of voilà – a culinary masterpiece that’s sure to please. But the fun doesn’t stop there! Feel free to experiment with innovative variations like curry korokke or pumpkin korokke, allowing your creativity to shine and explore new flavors. With korokke, the possibilities are truly endless.
Japanese Rice
Japanese rice may seem straightforward, but mastering its nuances requires skill and patience. The result is a culinary experience that transcends the ordinary, with rice that’s tender, pillowy, and utterly delightful. A crucial factor in achieving this perfection is the choice of rice itself; specifically, short-grain or sushi rice is ideal for creating the signature sticky texture.
While many Japanese households rely on the convenience of electric rice cookers, stovetop preparation remains a viable alternative. And once you’ve savored the true flavor of expertly prepared Japanese rice, it’s unlikely that any other version will ever satisfy.
Easy Japanese Souffle Pancakes
Savor the sublime experience of biting into a cloud-soft soufflé pancake. Not only do they mesmerize with their ethereal appearance, but the taste is equally astonishing. The secret to their unparalleled form lies in the use of cake flour instead of regular flour. The addition of egg white meringue infuses them with an airy lightness reminiscent of Japanese cheesecake.
Pair these delectable treats with a medley of fruits, syrup, powdered sugar, or fresh whipped cream for a truly indulgent experience. Impress your guests at your next brunch gathering by serving these show-stopping soufflé pancakes.
Miso Soup – Best Japanese Recipe You Can Make at Home!
Indulge in the rich, savory flavors of our umami-packed miso soup, easily customizable to suit your taste. With a range of miso paste options available – including sweet and smooth yellow, intense red, or pure white varieties – you can tailor the dish to your liking. Our recipe requires just five straightforward ingredients to deliver a restaurant-quality miso soup experience that’s easy to prepare in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Japanese Chicken Wings with Soy Sauce
Indulge in the harmonious balance of flavors as you devour these succulent Japanese-style chicken wings, smothered in a rich, savory sauce. The soy sauce lends an unmistakable Asian flair, while the subtle sweetness and tanginess from sugar and vinegar create a depth of flavor that will leave you wanting more. To achieve this mouthwatering treat, first pan-fry the wings in a combination of butter and oil until crispy, then finish them off in the oven before serving.
Teriyaki Chicken
Teriyaki Chicken is a standout in Japanese cuisine due to its incredible ease and speed of preparation. The harmonious union of tender chicken and tangy teriyaki sauce makes it an instant favorite among all family members. By cutting the chicken into uniform pieces before cooking, you can quickly serve this delightful dish – all within just 15 minutes! Once the chicken is cooked through, adding the teriyaki sauce to the pan is a seamless next step.
As the sauce thickens and develops that caramelized glaze around the chicken, it’s truly an impressive culinary feat.
Japanese Curry Buns
While Japanese curry buns are renowned for their satisfying crunch giving way to a flavorful filling, it’s the harmonious balance of textures that truly sets them apart. A crucial factor in achieving this synergy is the homemade dough, carefully crafted to yield a light and airy interior after a half-hour rise.
However, what really elevates these buns to new heights is the panko breadcrumb coating, which provides the perfect foundation for a golden brown crispiness upon frying.
The result is nothing short of delightful, making each bite a true culinary pleasure.
Salmon Teriyaki
Salmon teriyaki may appear to be an intricate dish, but its simplicity belies its ease of preparation. With just four essential ingredients, you can whip up this recipe in no time.
Not only is salmon a nutritious choice, but it’s also an excellent way to add variety to your family’s meals. To create this tasty teriyaki, all you need are the following four ingredients: salmon fillets, soy sauce, mirin, and sugar.
To round out the meal, pair the teriyaki with a serving of rice and steamed broccoli for a well-rounded, nutritious option that’s also easy to reheat. As a bonus, it makes for an excellent addition to your meal planning repertoire.
Udon Noodles
Whip up a delicious and zesty udon noodles meal in just 20 minutes, perfect for busy evenings. You can enjoy this scrumptious dish quicker than ordering takeout! The key to simplicity is using pre-packaged udon noodles, which streamlines the preparation process. For added convenience, you can opt for sautéed ground chicken or choose a vegetarian option instead. To elevate the flavor and presentation, add some red and yellow bell peppers.
Not only will it tantalize your taste buds, but also provide a visually appealing display that’s sure to delight!
Miso Ramen
In Japanese cuisine, miso is an integral component that adds depth and umami flavor to various dishes. This savory miso chicken recipe makes for a satisfying meal option on busy weekdays, perfect for a quick yet flavorful dinner.
A blend of ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes gives the dish its distinct Asian flair, with a subtle kick of spiciness. Serve it alongside steamed rice or pair it with a refreshing edamame and roasted corn salad for a well-rounded meal.
For an added layer of complexity, consider grilling the chicken to impart a smoky flavor, elevating this dish from ordinary to extraordinary.
Crispy Baked Tonkatsu
While traditional tonkatsu, a beloved Japanese fried pork cutlet dish, can be indulgent and rich, this baked version offers a healthier and simplified alternative that still delivers on the signature crispy texture. The key to achieving that satisfying crunch lies in pre-cooking the panko crumbs before applying them to the pork. This clever hack not only enhances the visual appeal with its golden brown hue but also ensures an evenly cooked exterior.
And, of course, no tonkatsu experience would be complete without a tangy and savory homemade tonkatsu sauce to accompany it!
Easy Fluffy Japanese Pancakes
Discover the art of crafting incredibly fluffy and light Japanese-style pancakes, also known as soufflé-like wonders. With this simple recipe, you’ll be able to replicate the magic at home in no time!
Chicken Yakitori Bowls
Our culinary adventure began when our go-to takeout spot closed down, prompting us to explore the world of homemade international cuisine. We embarked on a journey of discovery, experimenting with flavors and techniques from Asia, China, and Japan. Little did we know that this newfound passion would lead us to create mouthwatering dishes like Chicken Yakitori Bowls, which have become a staple in our household.
You can check out the recipe and get inspired to cook up your own delicious takeout at home.
Easy Instant Pot Hibachi Chicken Dinner (GF)
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with this mouthwatering, one-pot masterpiece featuring tender seasoned chicken and an assortment of sautéed vegetables. To take it to the next level, serve it alongside a rich, creamy sauce reminiscent of your favorite restaurant’s signature dishes, guaranteed to leave your family craving more. Click here to get the recipe now.
Air Fryer Hibachi Shrimp Dinner (LC, K, GF)
Indulge your family in a delectable Air Fryer Hibachi Shrimp Dinner that’s as impressive as it is effortless. This mouthwatering Japanese-inspired meal is sure to become a staple in your household, thanks to its remarkably quick and easy preparation – a true game-changer for busy home cooks!
Takuan
Takuan, a traditional Japanese condiment, is made by pickling daikon radish. The simplicity of this recipe lies in its straightforward preparation – the longer you allow the mixture to mature, the more complex and rich the flavor becomes. Typically, Takuan is served alongside various dishes in Japanese cuisine, adding a tangy and crunchy texture to any meal.
Yasai Itame
Yasai itame, a popular Japanese stir-fry, is characterized by its bold Asian flavors. Traditionally, this dish is served alongside steamed white rice and an assortment of tsukemono – pickled delights that harmonize with the yasai itame’s savory essence. Takuan, or pickled daikon, in particular, provides a perfect counterbalance to the stir-fry’s rich flavors.
Beef Negimaki – Japanese Rolled Steak and Scallions
In Japan, Beef Negimaki is a beloved culinary delight that has gained popularity globally for its simplicity and flavor profile. This dish is characterized by tender beef strips wrapped around scallions, making it both visually appealing and aromatic. Whether served as an appetizer or main course, Beef Negimaki is sure to impress with its ease of preparation and satisfying taste. For more information on this recipe, check out the provided link.
Japanese Mushroom Rice (Kinoko Gohan)
The subtle nuances of seasoning in this Japanese-inspired mushroom rice are a game-changer. The harmonious balance of flavors not only elevates the dish itself but also makes it an excellent accompaniment to a wide range of Asian-style and international meals, from stir-fries to grilled meats.
Kabocha No Nimono (Japanese Simmered Squash)
Kabocha squash, renowned for its vibrant sweetness, is elevated to new heights when prepared using the traditional Japanese method of kabocha no nimono. This approach expertly coaxes out the vegetable’s inherent tenderness and depth of flavor, resulting in a delightfully well-rounded culinary experience.
Japanese Hamburg Steak (Hambagu)
The Japanese Hamburg Steak is renowned for its exceptional moisture and juiciness, accompanied by a sweet and tangy ketchup-based sauce that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Its versatility makes it an ideal option for dinner, lunchboxes, or even as a kid-friendly meal. For more information, check out [link].
Instant Pot Sushi Rice – Popular Japanese Food
Innovative and streamlined, this Instant Pot sushi rice recipe offers a modern take on the traditional method. Gone are the complex steps and lengthy preparation times, replaced by a simplified process that yields equally impressive results.
Spicy Teriyaki Sauce – Easy Japanese Recipe
Crafting a delectable spicy teriyaki sauce from scratch? Look no further! This simple yet flavorful recipe is perfect for a quick and easy vegan dinner option. Whether you’re looking to elevate your stir-fry game or create a savory marinade, this sauce has got you covered. The foundation of this recipe lies in the harmonious blend of soy sauce, cornstarch, and brown sugar, providing a rich and velvety base for your culinary creations.
Pressure Cooker Japanese Beef Curry Stew {Instant Pot}
Indulge in the rich flavors of Japan’s iconic beef curry, cooked to perfection in under an hour using a pressure cooker. Say goodbye to hours spent hovering over a hot stove, and hello to a deliciously complex dish that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
Looking for more ways to bring Japanese cuisine into your kitchen? Check out our collection of 27 easy-to-make and authentic recipes to get you started!
Instructions
Experience the flavors of Japan with our collection of popular Japanese recipes. Simply click on the link beneath each image to access the full recipe and step-by-step instructions. Try your hand at preparing these mouth-watering dishes and don’t forget to share your culinary creations by posting a photo under our Pinterest pin!