Are you looking for a tasty and healthy side dish to complement your Japanese meal? Look no further than this delicious Japanese pickle recipe. Pickling is a traditional method of preserving vegetables in Japan, dating back centuries. It not only extends the shelf life of vegetables but also enhances their flavor, making them a popular accompaniment to any meal. In this article, we will guide you through a simple and authentic Japanese pickle recipe that you can easily make at home.
Main Ingredients: Soy Sauce, Maple Syrup, Rice Vinegar, Garlic, Tempeh
If you're looking for a healthier alternative to traditional beer can chicken, try this delicious brown rice bowl recipe. Made with maple-glazed tempeh and a variety of nutritious vegetables, this dish is both satisfying and good for you. The maple glaze adds a touch of sweetness, while the tempeh provides a good source of protein and fiber. Plus, with the added crunch of fresh vegetables, this dish is sure to become a new favorite in your household.
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Vegan Japanese Fried Oysters (Kaki Fry) カキフライ
Main Ingredients: Kewpie Mayonnaise, Medium Firm Tofu, Pickles, White
For all the vegans out there, this recipe is a must-try! These vegan Japanese fried oysters are made with tofu and seaweed, giving them a similar texture and flavor to the traditional dish. The tofu provides a good source of protein, while the seaweed adds a boost of vitamins and minerals. Serve with a side of soy sauce for dipping and enjoy this vegan twist on a classic Japanese dish.
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Teriyaki Chicken Burgers
Main Ingredients: Soy Sauce, Mirin, Sake, Superfine Sugar, Chicken Thigh
Who says beer can chicken has to be made with a whole chicken? These teriyaki chicken burgers are a delicious and easy alternative. Made with ground chicken, soy sauce, and a homemade teriyaki sauce, these burgers are juicy and packed with flavor. Top with your favorite burger toppings like avocado, pineapple, and teriyaki mayo for a tropical twist.
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OKONOMIYAKI
Main Ingredients: Self Raising Flour, Dashi Stock, Water, Eggs, Shredded
Okonomiyaki, also known as Japanese savory pancakes, is a popular dish in Japan. Made with a batter of flour, eggs, and shredded cabbage, these pancakes are then topped with a variety of ingredients, such as bacon, shrimp, or cheese. The toppings are then cooked into the pancake, creating a flavorful and hearty meal. Serve with a drizzle of okonomiyaki sauce and a sprinkle of bonito flakes for an authentic taste.
Similar to okonomiyaki, Japanese style pancakes are a popular street food in Japan. These fluffy and thick pancakes are made with a batter of flour, eggs, and milk, and are then topped with a variety of sweet ingredients, such as fruit, whipped cream, and chocolate sauce. They are a perfect treat for breakfast or dessert, and are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
If you're a fan of cheesecake, you have to try this Japanese cotton cheesecake. Made with a combination of cream cheese, eggs, and matcha powder, this cheesecake has a light and airy texture, making it different from traditional cheesecake. The addition of matcha gives it a unique flavor and a beautiful green hue. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh berries for a delicious and impressive dessert.
Another variation of okonomiyaki, this Japanese version of the dish is made with udon noodles and a variety of vegetables, such as cabbage, carrots, and shiitake mushrooms. The noodles add a heartier texture and make this dish a satisfying meal. Top with some tempura flakes and a drizzle of okonomiyaki sauce for a tasty finish.
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Japanese Instant Pickle
Main Ingredients: Daikon Radish, Carrots, English Cucumber, Chili Paste
If you're a fan of pickles, you have to try this Japanese instant pickle recipe. Made with cucumbers, rice vinegar, and sugar, this quick and easy pickle has a tangy and slightly sweet flavor. It's a perfect accompaniment to any meal, or you can enjoy it as a snack on its own. Plus, it's a great way to use up any extra cucumbers you may have in the fridge.
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Sanbaizu Tsukemono (Japanese Pickle)
Main Ingredients: Tokyo Turnips, Radishes, Daikon, Grapes, Shoyu, Mirin
Another delicious pickle recipe, this Japanese pickle is made with a variety of vegetables, such as cucumbers, carrots, and daikon, and is marinated in a mixture of rice vinegar, soy sauce, and mirin. The result is a tangy and slightly sweet pickle that is perfect for adding a burst of flavor to any meal. Plus, the vibrant colors of the vegetables make for a beautiful presentation.
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Japanese Cucumber Salad (Sunomono)
Main Ingredients: English Cucumber, Salt, Sugar, Soy Sauce, Rice Vinegar
This Japanese cucumber salad is a refreshing and light side dish that pairs well with any meal. Made with thinly sliced cucumbers and a dressing of rice vinegar, soy sauce, and sugar, this salad is both tangy and slightly sweet. It's a perfect way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet and add some variety to your meals.
Ramen is a popular dish in Japan, and for good reason. This hearty noodle soup is made with a flavorful broth, pork belly, boiled eggs, and a variety of vegetables. It's a comforting and satisfying meal that is perfect for a cold day or when you're craving some comfort food. Plus, it's customizable, so you can add your favorite toppings and make it your own.
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Dill Pickle Pasta Salad
Main Ingredients: Shell Pasta, Pickles, Cheddar Cheese, White Onion
If you're a fan of dill pickles, you have to try this dill pickle pasta salad. Made with pasta, dill pickles, and a creamy dressing, this salad is tangy, crunchy, and perfect for a picnic or potluck. The addition of bacon and cheese adds a savory element to balance out the tanginess of the pickles. It's a unique twist on a classic pasta salad that is sure to be a hit.
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Japanese Rice Balls Onigiri
Main Ingredients: Cooked Rice, Umeboshi, Bonito Flakes, Soy Sauce, Mirin
Onigiri, also known as Japanese rice balls, are a popular snack in Japan. These triangular-shaped rice balls are made with sushi rice and can be filled with a variety of ingredients, such as salmon, tuna, or pickled vegetables. They are a convenient and portable snack that is perfect for a midday pick-me-up or a quick lunch. Plus, the possibilities for fillings are endless, so you can get creative with your onigiri.
Another popular noodle dish in Japan, udon noodle soup is a simple yet flavorful dish. Made with thick and chewy udon noodles and a savory broth, this soup is usually topped with tempura flakes, green onions, and fish cakes. It's a comforting and satisfying meal that is perfect for any time of day.
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Japanese Gyoza Dumplings
Main Ingredients: Napa Cabbage, Ground Pork, Garlic, Fresh Ginger
Gyoza, also known as Japanese dumplings, are a staple in Japanese cuisine. These little parcels of goodness are made with a filling of pork, cabbage, and garlic, and are then pan-fried until crispy. They are usually served with a dipping sauce made of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and chili oil. They make a great appetizer or snack and are a must-try for any dumpling lover.
If you're looking for a new way to enjoy eggplant, try this Japanese eggplant recipe. The eggplant is sliced and marinated in a mixture of rice vinegar, soy sauce, and sugar, then grilled until tender and slightly charred. The result is a flavorful and tender side dish that is perfect for any Japanese-inspired meal.
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Dill Pickle Soup
Main Ingredients: Vegetable Broth, White Onion, Baby Carrots, Russet
If you're feeling adventurous, give this dill pickle soup a try. Made with dill pickles, potatoes, and sour cream, this soup has a tangy and creamy flavor that is surprisingly delicious. It's a unique and comforting soup that is perfect for a chilly day or when you need a little pick-me-up.
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Japanese Soba Noodles With Peanut Sauce
Main Ingredients: Soba Noodles, Unsalted Roasted Peanuts, Sesame Oil
This Japanese soba noodle dish is a flavorful and satisfying meal that is perfect for lunch or dinner. The soba noodles are tossed in a creamy and savory peanut sauce, then topped with grilled chicken, carrots, and green onions. It's a great way to switch up your noodle game and add some variety to your meals.
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Yakitori (Japanese Grilled Chicken)
Main Ingredients: Skinless Chicken Thighs, Soy Sauce, Pure Maple Syrup
Yakitori, or Japanese grilled chicken, is a popular street food in Japan. Skewers of chicken are marinated in a sweet and savory sauce and then grilled until juicy and tender. They are a delicious and easy dish that is perfect for a summertime BBQ or a quick weeknight meal. Serve with a side of sesame seeds for added flavor and crunch.
If you're looking for a new way to enjoy zucchini, try this Japanese zucchini recipe. The zucchini is sliced and marinated in a mixture of rice vinegar, soy sauce, and sugar, and then grilled until tender and slightly charred. The result is a flavorful and unique side dish that is sure to impress your taste buds.
Ingredients:
Japanese cucumbers - 4-5 medium-sized
Salt - 2 tablespoons
Rice vinegar - 1 cup
Sugar - 2 tablespoons
Soy sauce - 1 tablespoon
Sesame oil - 1 teaspoon
Red pepper flakes - 1 teaspoon (optional for spice)
Instructions:
Wash and dry the Japanese cucumbers and cut them into thin slices or julienne strips.
In a mixing bowl, sprinkle salt over the cucumber slices and toss them well. Let them sit for 30 minutes to an hour, until they start releasing water.
In a small saucepan, mix rice vinegar, sugar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using) and bring it to a boil.
Drain the water from the cucumber slices and squeeze out any excess liquid with your hands.
Place the cucumber slices in a clean, sterilized jar and pour the hot vinegar mixture over them.
Let the pickles cool down to room temperature before sealing the jar and storing it in the refrigerator.
After a day or two, your Japanese pickles will be ready to be enjoyed as a side dish or a topping for rice, noodles, or sandwiches.
Variations:
If you want to experiment with different flavors and textures, you can also add other vegetables like carrots, daikon radish, or cabbage to this pickle recipe. You can also adjust the amount of sugar and vinegar to suit your taste preferences. Some recipes also call for the addition of mirin, ginger, or garlic for added depth of flavor.
Benefits of Japanese Pickles:
Japanese pickles, also known as tsukemono, are not only tasty and versatile but also offer numerous health benefits. The pickling process increases the probiotic content of the vegetables, which helps in maintaining a healthy gut and improving digestion. They are also a great source of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, making them a nutritious addition to any meal.
In conclusion:
This simple Japanese pickle recipe is a great way to add some variety and nutrition to your meals. With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you can enjoy a delicious and healthy side dish that is a staple in Japanese cuisine. So why not give it a try and elevate your meals with these flavorful and crunchy pickles?
