19 Easy Japanese Beginner Recipe Savor The Mouthwatering Goodness!
Published on: Mar 25, 2024
For those who are new to Japanese cuisine or just starting to learn how to cook, finding easy and beginner-friendly recipes can be a daunting task. With a wide variety of ingredients and cooking techniques, it can be overwhelming to know where to begin. However, fear not, as we have curated a list of easy Japanese recipes that are perfect for beginners. These dishes not only require minimal ingredients and preparation time, but they also introduce you to the basics of Japanese cuisine. So, put on your apron and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure with these beginner-friendly Japanese recipes.
If you're looking for a delicious and easy Japanese dish to make, Japanese Pork Katsu is the perfect option. This crispy fried pork cutlet is a popular dish in Japan and can be found in many Japanese restaurants around the world. It's made with tender pork loin that is coated in panko breadcrumbs and deep-fried to perfection. Serve it with a side of rice and tonkatsu sauce for a complete meal that will have your taste buds dancing with delight.
If you're tired of the same old pancakes, it's time to switch things up and try Japanese style pancakes. These fluffy and thick pancakes are a popular breakfast food in Japan and are known for their unique texture and presentation. Made with eggs, flour, and milk, these pancakes are cooked in a ring mold on a griddle to create a perfectly round shape. Serve them with traditional toppings like butter and syrup or get creative and try adding some fresh fruit or whipped cream.
If you love cheesecake but want to try something different, Japanese 'Cotton' cheesecake is a must-try. This light and airy cheesecake is made with cream cheese, eggs, and sugar and has a texture that is similar to a sponge cake. The secret to its unique texture is in the folding technique used to incorporate the egg whites into the batter. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh berries for a delicious and elegant dessert.
Okonomiyaki, also known as Japanese savory pancakes, is a popular street food in Japan. It's a savory pancake made with a batter of flour, cabbage, and eggs and can be filled with a variety of ingredients like pork, shrimp, or vegetables. It's usually topped with a special sauce, mayo, and bonito flakes. You can find okonomiyaki in many restaurants in Japan, but it's also easy to make at home. Try experimenting with different fillings to find your favorite combination.
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Japanese Cucumber Salad (Sunomono)
Main Ingredients: English Cucumber, Salt, Sugar, Soy Sauce, Rice Vinegar
If you're looking for a refreshing and light side dish to accompany your Japanese meal, look no further than Japanese cucumber salad, also known as sunomono. This simple salad is made with thinly sliced cucumbers and a tangy dressing made of rice vinegar, soy sauce, and sugar. It's the perfect balance of sweet and sour and pairs well with any main dish. For an extra kick of flavor, add some sliced red onions or sesame seeds.
Ramen may have originated in China, but it's become a staple in Japanese cuisine. This noodle soup dish is made with a flavorful broth, noodles, and various toppings like pork, eggs, and vegetables. While it may seem intimidating to make at home, it's actually quite easy. You can find many different variations of ramen, from spicy to creamy, so feel free to experiment with different broths and toppings to find your perfect bowl of ramen.
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Japanese Rice Balls Onigiri
Main Ingredients: Cooked Rice, Umeboshi, Bonito Flakes, Soy Sauce, Mirin
Onigiri, also known as rice balls, are a popular snack in Japan. These small, triangular-shaped rice balls are usually filled with ingredients like pickled plums, salmon, or tuna and are wrapped in seaweed. They are perfect for a quick snack or as a side dish for lunch. The best part about onigiri is that you can get creative with the fillings and make them as simple or as complex as you'd like.
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Japanese Gyoza Dumplings
Main Ingredients: Napa Cabbage, Ground Pork, Garlic, Fresh Ginger
Gyoza, or Japanese dumplings, are a popular dish in Japan and are often served as an appetizer in restaurants. These dumplings are filled with a mixture of ground pork, cabbage, and seasonings and are pan-fried until crispy. They are usually served with a dipping sauce made of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and chili oil. For an extra flavor boost, try adding some garlic or ginger to the filling mixture.
Udon, a type of thick wheat noodle, is a staple in Japanese cuisine and is often used in soups and stir-fry dishes. Udon noodle soup is a simple yet satisfying dish made with a flavorful broth, udon noodles, and various toppings like tempura, tofu, or vegetables. It's a great option for a quick and comforting meal, and you can customize the toppings to your liking.
Japanese eggplant, also known as nasu, is a long and slender variety of eggplant that is commonly used in Japanese cooking. It has a mild and slightly sweet flavor and a tender texture, making it the perfect addition to many dishes. You can find it in stir-fries, stews, and even grilled. Try marinating it in a soy sauce and sesame oil mixture before grilling for an extra burst of flavor.
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Japanese Soba Noodles With Peanut Sauce
Main Ingredients: Soba Noodles, Unsalted Roasted Peanuts, Sesame Oil
Soba noodles, made from buckwheat flour, are a popular noodle in Japanese cuisine. They can be enjoyed hot or cold and are often served with a variety of sauces and toppings. One delicious option is to serve them with a peanut sauce made of peanut butter, soy sauce, and sesame oil. For some added crunch, top with chopped peanuts and green onions.
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Yakitori (Japanese Grilled Chicken)
Main Ingredients: Skinless Chicken Thighs, Soy Sauce, Pure Maple Syrup
Yakitori, or grilled chicken skewers, is a popular dish in Japan and is often served at izakayas (Japanese pubs). These skewers are made with bite-sized pieces of chicken that are marinated in a sweet and savory sauce and grilled over charcoal. They are usually served with a side of pickled vegetables and are perfect for sharing with friends. Feel free to use your favorite cut of chicken or add some vegetables to the skewers for a delicious twist.
Zucchini may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Japanese cuisine, but it's actually a popular ingredient in many dishes. In Japan, it's known as "courgette" and is often used in stir-fries, tempura, and even sushi. Its mild flavor and tender texture make it a versatile ingredient that can be used in many dishes. Try grilling it with some soy sauce and garlic for a tasty side dish.
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Japanese Beef Steak
Main Ingredients: Garlic, Sugar, Soy Sauce, Sake, Water, New York Steaks
If you're a meat lover, you can't go wrong with Japanese style beef steak. This dish is made with thinly sliced beef that is marinaded in a mixture of soy sauce, sake, and sugar before being grilled to perfection. It's usually served with a side of rice and topped with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and green onions. This dish is sure to impress your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
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Katsudon Japanese Pork Cutlet and Egg Rice Bowl
Main Ingredients: Boneless Pork Chops, Salt, Pepper, Flour, Egg, Panko
Katsudon is a popular Japanese rice bowl dish that consists of a deep-fried pork cutlet, egg, and onions served over a bed of rice. The pork is usually coated in panko breadcrumbs and fried until crispy, and then simmered in a sweet and savory broth with onions and beaten eggs. It's a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. Feel free to add some vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for some extra nutrients.
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Japanese Sweet Potato Okonomiyaki
Main Ingredients: Plain Flour, Baking Powder, Vegetable Stock, Eggs, Soy
Okonomiyaki, mentioned earlier, is a versatile dish that can be made with a variety of ingredients. One unique variation is sweet potato okonomiyaki, which is made with grated sweet potato, flour, and eggs. It's a delicious and healthier alternative to the traditional cabbage version and can be topped with your choice of meat, seafood, or vegetables.
Japanese curry is a popular dish that has its roots in Indian cuisine. It's made with a roux that is made of flour, butter, and curry powder, and is typically served with rice and a variety of toppings like meat, vegetables, and pickled vegetables. Japanese curry has a milder flavor than traditional Indian curry, making it a favorite among kids and those with a milder palate. Feel free to add some extra spices or vegetables to the curry for a personalized touch.
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Japanese Yaki Udon For Beginners
Main Ingredients: Udon Noodles, Sesame Oil, Garlic, Rice Vinegar, Pepper
Yaki udon, stir-fried udon noodles, is a popular dish in Japan and is a great option for beginners looking to try Japanese cooking. This dish is made with thick udon noodles, vegetables, and a savory sauce that is usually made with soy sauce, sake, and mirin. It's a quick and easy meal that can be customized with your favorite vegetables and protein. For some extra flavor, add some garlic or ginger to the stir-fry.
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Japanese Ramen with Chicken
Main Ingredients: Chicken Breasts, Salt, Pepper, Unsalted Butter, Sesame
If you're not a fan of pork, you can still enjoy a delicious bowl of ramen by making it with chicken instead. This version of ramen is made with a flavorful chicken broth and topped with chicken instead of pork. You can also add your choice of toppings like soft-boiled eggs, bamboo shoots, and green onions. For an extra kick of heat, add some chili oil or top with some spicy kimchi.
Tonkatsu, or Japanese pork cutlet, is a popular dish that is similar to Japanese pork katsu, but with a few variations. Unlike katsu, tonkatsu is breaded with flour, egg, and panko breadcrumbs before being deep-fried. It's usually served with a side of shredded cabbage and tonkatsu sauce, which is a sweet and tangy sauce made with ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce. For a healthier version, try baking the pork cutlet instead of frying it.
Teriyaki Salmon
Ingredients:
4 salmon fillets
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup mirin
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Teriyaki salmon is a classic Japanese dish that is loved by many. It is not only delicious, but also incredibly easy to make. Start by mixing together the soy sauce, mirin, and honey in a bowl. Marinate the salmon fillets in this mixture for at least 30 minutes. Heat a pan with vegetable oil over medium-high heat and cook the salmon for about 5 minutes on each side, or until it is cooked to your liking. Serve with rice and steamed vegetables for a complete and nutritious meal.
Chicken Katsu
Ingredients:
4 boneless chicken breasts
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 eggs, beaten
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Vegetable oil for frying
Chicken katsu is a popular Japanese dish that is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. To make this dish, start by pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness. Coat the chicken in flour, then dip it in the beaten eggs, and finally coat it with panko breadcrumbs. Heat vegetable oil in a pan and fry the chicken for about 5 minutes on each side, or until it is golden brown and cooked through. Serve with Japanese curry and rice for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Onigiri
Ingredients:
2 cups cooked sushi rice
2 sheets of nori seaweed
Filling of choice (e.g. tuna, salmon, pickled plum)
Onigiri, also known as rice balls, are a staple in Japanese cuisine. They are easy to make and can be filled with a variety of ingredients. To make onigiri, start by wetting your hands with water. Take a handful of rice and shape it into a triangle or ball. Make an indent in the middle and place your desired filling inside. Cover the filling with more rice and shape it into a ball or triangle. Finally, wrap the onigiri with a sheet of nori seaweed. These make for a great on-the-go snack or a lunchbox addition.
With these easy Japanese beginner recipes, you can now confidently start your journey into Japanese cuisine. These dishes are not only delicious, but they also introduce you to the basic ingredients and techniques used in Japanese cooking. So, don your apron and give these recipes a try – you won't be disappointed!
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