When it comes to delightful culinary adventures, Japan is a treasure trove. Japanese cuisine is famous all over the world, from sushi and ramen to tempura and yakitori. However, there is no better way to immerse yourself in the unique flavors of Japan than by partaking in its thriving street food scene. Japanese street food offers a culinary trip unlike any other, with a rich history and a myriad of distinctive delicacies. So grab your chopsticks and join us as we explore Japan’s vast and wonderful street food scene.
Takoyaki:
We start our street food expedition with a traditional Osaka delicacy, takoyaki. The batter for these delicious tiny balls of bliss is made of wheat flour, dashi (a fish and seaweed stock), and octopus pieces. The batter is poured and flipped on a special takoyaki pan with round moulds until it forms a crispy outer layer with a soft and gooey centre. Takoyaki is usually served with savory takoyaki sauce, mayonnaise, bonito flakes, and green onions on top. While eating these irresistible delicacies, take care not to burn your tongue!
Okonomiyaki:
Okonomiyaki is a savory pancake-like meal from Hiroshima and Osaka that is a must-try street snack in Japan. The name translates to “grilled as you like it,” highlighting the dish’s adaptability. The batter is made of flour, eggs, and shredded cabbage, with extra ingredients such as pork belly, fish, or vegetables incorporated in. Okonomiyaki is cooked on a griddle and then covered with a variety of toppings such as okonomiyaki sauce, mayonnaise, dried seaweed, and dried bonito flakes. It’s almost as pleasurable to watch it being prepared as it is to eat it!
Ramen:
While ramen is more typically associated with sit-down restaurants, Japan’s bustling streets are home to a plethora of ramen stalls that serve quick and filling bowls of this popular cuisine. Each location in Japan has its own distinct twist on this renowned noodle soup, from Tokyo-style soy-based ramen to Sapporo’s miso-based variant. Slurping a sizzling hot bowl of ramen on the move is an experience not to be missed, whether you favor a rich and creamy tonkotsu broth or a light and refreshing shoyu broth.
Yakitori:
If you like grilled skewers, yakitori is the street snack for you. Yakitori is a popular after-work snack and late-night snack that comprises of bite-sized pieces of chicken or other components such as beef, pig, or vegetables that are skewered and barbecued over charcoal. Negima (chicken with green onion), tsukune (chicken meatballs), and yakitori-style grilled skewers with delectable sauces are the most common forms of yakitori. With a nice beer to wash it down, you’ve got yourself a winning street food combo.
Taiyaki:
For those with a sweet tooth, taiyaki is a must-try. A pancake-like batter is poured into a fish-shaped mould, then filled with sweet red bean paste, custard, or even chocolate. Taiyaki is fried till the surface is golden brown and crispy, with a warm and gooey filling inside. Taiyaki booths are frequently found around famous tourist attractions, and it’s the ideal snack to munch on while exploring Japan’s streets.
Keep a look out for these delectable street food alternatives as you travel Japan’s streets. Whether you’re visiting Tokyo’s bustling city, Kyoto’s mediaeval alleyways, or the colorful food scenes of Osaka and Hiroshima, the country provides an unlimited selection of scrumptious street food options. So embrace your inner foodie, take a stroll around Japan’s streets, and let your taste buds embark on an incredible culinary voyage.
