20 Japanese Nishime Recipe Cook Up Something Special!
Published on: Mar 25, 2024
Nishime is a traditional Japanese dish that is often enjoyed during special occasions such as New Year's celebrations. This hearty and flavorful dish is made with a variety of vegetables, simmered in a savory broth until tender. Nishime is not only delicious, but it is also a symbol of good luck and prosperity. In this article, we will take a closer look at the history of this dish and share a delicious Japanese Nishime recipe that you can try at home.
Let's start with a classic Japanese dish - Pork Katsu. This dish features thin slices of pork cutlets that are breaded and deep-fried to perfection. The result is a crispy and juicy piece of meat that pairs perfectly with a side of tonkatsu sauce. To make this dish, all you need is some pork loin, flour, eggs, and panko breadcrumbs. Serve it with a side of rice and shredded cabbage for a complete meal.
Next, we have the crowd-pleasing Japanese-style pancakes. These pancakes are known for their tall and fluffy texture, which is achieved by carefully folding in whipped egg whites into the batter. The result is a stack of pancakes that are light, airy, and oh-so-delicious. Top it off with some matcha powder, whipped cream, and fresh berries for a truly Instagram-worthy breakfast.
If you love savory pancakes, then you have to try Okonomiyaki. This Japanese pancake is made with a batter of flour, eggs, cabbage, and a variety of fillings such as bacon, seafood, or vegetables. It is then topped with a delicious mixture of okonomiyaki sauce, mayonnaise, and bonito flakes. It's a must-try for anyone looking to expand their pancake repertoire.
If you have a sweet tooth, then you will love this Japanese 'cotton' cheesecake. Unlike traditional cheesecakes, this version is light, fluffy, and has a delicate texture that melts in your mouth. The secret to this cake is using a combination of cream cheese and whipped egg whites. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream and some fresh fruit for the perfect dessert.
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Nishime
Main Ingredients: Water, Kelp, Katsuobushi, Soy Sauce, White Sugar, Sake
Nishime is a popular Japanese dish that features a variety of simmered vegetables and meat in a savory broth. The key to this dish is using a variety of root vegetables such as carrots, daikon, and lotus root, along with chicken or pork. It's a comforting and hearty dish that is perfect for a cold winter day.
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Japanese Cucumber Salad (Sunomono)
Main Ingredients: English Cucumber, Salt, Sugar, Soy Sauce, Rice Vinegar
Looking for a refreshing and light side dish? Then you have to try Sunomono, a Japanese cucumber salad. This dish features thinly sliced cucumbers that are marinated in a sweet and tangy dressing made of rice vinegar, soy sauce, and sugar. It's the perfect accompaniment to any meal and is a great way to use up any extra cucumbers you may have on hand.
Ramen has taken the world by storm, and for good reason. This Japanese noodle soup is packed with umami flavors and is the ultimate comfort food. While there are many different variations of ramen, the classic version usually features chicken broth, pork belly, noodles, and a variety of toppings such as soft-boiled eggs, green onions, and seaweed. It's a must-try for any noodle lover.
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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 staple in Japanese cuisine. These compact and portable snacks are made by shaping rice into a triangle or ball and filling it with a variety of ingredients such as pickled plum, tuna, or salmon. They are perfect for a quick and easy snack or a packed lunch.
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Japanese Gyoza Dumplings
Main Ingredients: Napa Cabbage, Ground Pork, Garlic, Fresh Ginger
Gyoza, or Japanese dumplings, are another popular dish that has gained worldwide recognition. These dumplings are filled with a mixture of pork, cabbage, and other seasonings, then pan-fried until crispy. They are often served with a dipping sauce made of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. They make for a delicious appetizer or a side dish.
Udon noodle soup is another comforting and flavorful dish that is popular in Japanese cuisine. This soup features thick and chewy udon noodles served in a savory broth made from dashi (a type of stock), soy sauce, and mirin. It is often topped with tempura (battered and fried seafood or vegetables) or kamaboko (fish cakes).
Don't be fooled by its name; Japanese eggplant is a completely different variety from the typical eggplant you may be used to. It has a longer and thinner shape and a sweeter and milder taste. It is often used in dishes such as nasu dengaku (grilled eggplant with a miso glaze) or agedashi tofu (deep-fried tofu served in a broth with eggplant and other toppings).
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Japanese Soba Noodles With Peanut Sauce
Main Ingredients: Soba Noodles, Unsalted Roasted Peanuts, Sesame Oil
Soba noodles are thin buckwheat noodles that are commonly used in Japanese cuisine. They have a nutty flavor and a firm texture, making them a great base for a variety of dishes. One popular way to enjoy soba noodles is by tossing them with a peanut sauce made of peanut butter, soy sauce, sesame oil, and other seasonings. It's a quick and easy meal that is packed with flavor.
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Yakitori (Japanese Grilled Chicken)
Main Ingredients: Skinless Chicken Thighs, Soy Sauce, Pure Maple Syrup
Yakitori, or Japanese grilled chicken skewers, is a popular street food in Japan. The chicken is usually marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, sake, and mirin, then grilled over charcoal or on a stovetop grill. It's a simple yet delicious dish that is perfect for any meat lover.
Zucchini may not be the first vegetable that comes to mind when you think of Japanese cuisine, but it is commonly used in many dishes. In Japan, it is often grilled or stir-fried and served with a variety of sauces such as teriyaki or soy sauce. It's a tasty and versatile vegetable that can be incorporated into many different dishes.
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Japanese Beef Steak
Main Ingredients: Garlic, Sugar, Soy Sauce, Sake, Water, New York Steaks
Japanese beef, also known as Wagyu, is famous for its marbling and tenderness. It's no wonder that it makes for an incredible steak. The key to cooking Wagyu beef is to keep it simple - just a sprinkle of sea salt and black pepper is all you need to let the natural flavors of the meat shine. Serve it with a side of rice and some grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
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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 donburi, or rice bowl, dish in Japan. It features a crispy and juicy pork cutlet served on top of a bed of rice and topped with a soft-boiled egg and a sweet and savory sauce. It's a filling and delicious meal that is perfect for any time of the day.
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Japanese Sweet Potato Okonomiyaki
Main Ingredients: Plain Flour, Baking Powder, Vegetable Stock, Eggs, Soy
Sweet potatoes are a staple in Japanese cuisine and are often used in both savory and sweet dishes. One unique way to enjoy sweet potatoes is by incorporating them into Okonomiyaki. The result is a sweet and savory pancake that is packed with nutrients and flavor. Serve it with a side of tonkatsu sauce and mayonnaise for an extra indulgent treat.
Japanese curry is a comfort food that is loved by many. It is thicker and sweeter than traditional Indian curry and is typically served with rice. The base of the curry is a roux made from flour, butter, and curry powder, and it can be customized with different meats and vegetables. It's a simple and satisfying meal that is perfect for a cozy night in.
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Japanese Yaki Udon For Beginners
Main Ingredients: Udon Noodles, Sesame Oil, Garlic, Rice Vinegar, Pepper
If you're new to Japanese cuisine, a great dish to start with is Yaki Udon. This stir-fried noodle dish is quick and easy to make and can be customized with your favorite vegetables and protein. The key to a good Yaki Udon is to use a hot wok or skillet to get those noodles nice and crispy. It's a delicious and versatile dish that is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.
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Japanese Ramen with Chicken
Main Ingredients: Chicken Breasts, Salt, Pepper, Unsalted Butter, Sesame
Last but certainly not least, we have another ramen dish for all the chicken lovers out there. This version of ramen features a rich and flavorful chicken broth and is topped with chicken chashu (braised chicken thighs), soft-boiled eggs, and green onions. It's a delicious and satisfying meal that is perfect for any day of the week.
The origins of Nishime
Nishime has been a staple in Japanese cuisine for centuries and its exact origins are unknown. However, it is believed to have originated from the ancient Buddhist tradition of shojin ryori, which is a vegetarian style of cooking. This style of cooking became popular among Buddhist monks who were not allowed to consume meat. Nishime, with its abundance of vegetables, perfectly fits into this tradition.
The significance of Nishime in Japanese culture
Aside from its delicious taste, Nishime also holds a special significance in Japanese culture. It is often served during New Year's celebrations as it is believed to bring good luck and prosperity for the upcoming year. The variety of vegetables used in Nishime also symbolizes abundance and unity, making it a perfect dish for family gatherings and celebrations.
The key ingredients in Nishime
The main ingredients in Nishime are root vegetables such as daikon radish, carrots, and konnyaku, a type of yam cake. These vegetables are traditionally cut into symbolic shapes such as coins or rectangles, representing prosperity and wealth. Other common ingredients include shiitake mushrooms, bamboo shoots, and konbu, a type of seaweed.
The secret to a flavorful Nishime broth
The key to a delicious Nishime lies in the broth. The broth is made with a combination of dashi, a Japanese stock made from dried seaweed and bonito flakes, and soy sauce. This creates a savory and umami-rich base for the vegetables to simmer in, infusing them with delicious flavors.
Japanese Nishime recipe
Now that you know the history and significance of Nishime, it's time to try making it at home. Follow this simple recipe to create a delicious and authentic Japanese Nishime dish.
Ingredients:
1 daikon radish, peeled and cut into coins
2 medium carrots, peeled and cut into coins
1 pack of konnyaku, cut into rectangles
8 shiitake mushrooms, stems removed
1 can of bamboo shoots, drained
4 cups dashi stock
3 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon mirin
1 tablespoon sugar
Instructions:
In a large pot, bring the dashi stock to a boil.
Add in the soy sauce, mirin, and sugar, and stir until well combined.
Add in the daikon radish, carrots, konnyaku, shiitake mushrooms, and bamboo shoots.
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 30 minutes.
Check the vegetables for tenderness. If they are still firm, continue to simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes.
Once the vegetables are tender, turn off the heat and let the Nishime sit for 10 minutes.
Serve hot and enjoy your homemade Japanese Nishime!
With its rich history and symbolic significance, Nishime is more than just a dish – it is a representation of Japanese culture and traditions. So the next time you want to impress your guests with a unique and flavorful dish, give this Japanese Nishime recipe a try. Your taste buds and your loved ones will thank you.