Discover the Art of Japanese Home Cooking: 20 Authentic Recipes for Beginners!
Japanese cuisine is renowned for its simplicity, yet depth of flavor. When it comes to home cooking, Japanese meals are often associated with complex ingredients and cooking techniques. However, this doesn’t have to be the case. With a few staple ingredients and some basic cooking skills, you can create authentic Japanese dishes that will impress your family and friends.
To help you get started, we’ve curated 20 beginner-friendly recipes that showcase the best of Japanese home cooking. From comforting bowls of miso soup to savory pancakes and tender grilled meats, these recipes are designed to be easy to follow and delicious to eat. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this collection has something for everyone.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through Japan’s most popular home cooking dishes, introducing you to ingredients like miso paste, sesame oil, and soy sauce that will become staples in your pantry.
Miso Soup with Tofu and Wakame
A classic Japanese comfort food, this Miso Soup is a harmonious blend of savory miso paste, tender tofu, and nutritious wakame seaweed.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups dashi broth (or vegetable broth)
– 1/4 cup white miso paste
– 1 block firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 1/4 cup wakame seaweed, rehydrated and chopped
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, whisk together dashi broth and miso paste until smooth.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Add tofu and wakame seaweed; cook for 5 minutes or until the seaweed is tender.
4. Stir in soy sauce and grated ginger.
5. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tamagoyaki (Japanese Rolled Omelette)
A classic Japanese dish, Tamagoyaki is a sweet and savory rolled omelette that’s perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create this delicious and delicate treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)
– 1 tablespoon sake (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs and salt until well combined.
2. Heat a small non-stick pan over medium heat.
3. Pour in a thin layer of egg mixture and cook for about 30 seconds.
4. Use a spatula to gently lift and fold the edges of the omelette towards the center.
5. Repeat step 4 until the omelette is almost fully cooked, then add soy sauce and sake (if using) and mix well.
6. Use the spatula to roll the omelette into a compact cylinder.
7. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-15 minutes
Okonomiyaki (Savory Japanese Pancake)
Okonomiyaki is a popular Japanese street food that originated in the Hiroshima region. This savory pancake is filled with a variety of ingredients, including cabbage, pork, and seafood, all held together by a sweet and tangy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup finely chopped cabbage
– 1/4 cup diced pork (or beef or chicken)
– 1/4 cup sliced green onions
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon okonomiyaki sauce
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and water to form a batter.
2. Add chopped cabbage, diced pork, green onions, and grated ginger to the batter. Mix well.
3. Heat a non-stick pan or skillet with 1-2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat.
4. Pour in the batter and spread evenly to form a pancake shape.
5. Cook for 3-4 minutes, until the bottom is golden brown.
6. Flip the pancake and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the other side is also golden brown.
7. Serve with okonomiyaki sauce, mayonnaise, and bonito flakes (optional).
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Tonkatsu (Japanese Pork Cutlet)
Tonkatsu, a popular Japanese dish, is a breaded and deep-fried pork cutlet that’s crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. This classic recipe yields a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork cutlets (about 1/2 inch thick)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Tonkatsu sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Steamed rice and miso soup for serving
Instructions:
1. Prepare the pork cutlets by pounding them to an even thickness.
2. Dip each cutlet in flour, then beaten egg, and finally panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Fry the breaded pork cutlets for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Drain excess oil on paper towels and serve hot with Tonkatsu sauce, steamed rice, and miso soup.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Gyudon (Beef Bowl)
A classic Japanese comfort food, Gyudon is a hearty and flavorful bowl dish that combines tender beef strips with a savory soy-based sauce and served over steamed rice. This simple recipe brings the warmth of Japan to your table.
Ingredients:
– 200g thinly sliced beef (such as ribeye or sirloin)
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup sake (or dry white wine)
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 tablespoons mirin (sweet Japanese cooking wine)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups cooked Japanese short-grain rice
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine soy sauce, sake, sugar, and mirin. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
2. Add the beef strips and cook for 3-4 minutes or until browned.
3. Remove the beef from the saucepan and set aside.
4. Add vegetable oil to the saucepan and sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
5. Serve the beef and onions over steamed Japanese short-grain rice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Yakitori (Grilled Chicken Skewers)
Experience the flavors of Japan with this classic yakitori recipe, featuring tender chicken skewers grilled to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 500g boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sake (or dry white wine)
– 2 tablespoons mirin (sweet Japanese cooking wine)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 10-12 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sake, mirin, garlic, and ginger. Add the chicken pieces and marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
2. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Thread 4-5 chicken pieces onto each skewer.
3. Grill the skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Serve hot with sesame seeds and chopped scallions (if using).
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Oyakodon (Chicken and Egg Rice Bowl)
A classic Japanese comfort food, Oyakodon is a flavorful rice bowl dish that combines juicy chicken, savory egg, and sweet soy sauce. This simple recipe serves one, but can be easily scaled up for more.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked Japanese rice
– 1/2 cup diced cooked chicken (thighs or breast)
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sake (Japanese cooking wine) or dry white wine
– 1 tablespoon mirin (sweet Japanese cooking sake)
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the Japanese rice according to package instructions.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sake, and mirin.
3. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat. Pour in the egg mixture and scramble until set.
4. Add the cooked chicken to the pan and stir-fry with the egg until combined.
5. Serve the chicken-egg mixture over the cooked rice. Drizzle with additional soy sauce if desired.
6. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Karaage (Japanese Fried Chicken)
Savor the crispy exterior and juicy interior of this classic Japanese fried chicken dish, Karaage. This recipe yields a flavorful and addictive snack that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup potato starch
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sake (Japanese rice wine) or dry sherry
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, potato starch, salt, and peppers.
2. Add chicken pieces to the bowl and toss until coated with the flour mixture.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together soy sauce and sake (or sherry). Pour the marinade over the chicken and mix well.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the chicken pieces in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes total, depending on the number of batches.
Chawanmushi (Savory Egg Custard)
Chawanmushi is a traditional Japanese savory egg custard dish that’s both comforting and flavorful. This recipe yields a silky-smooth, delicate egg custard infused with the savory goodness of mushrooms and soy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup dashi broth (or chicken stock)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sake (optional)
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms (such as shiitake or cremini)
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine eggs, dashi broth, soy sauce, sake (if using), sugar, and grated ginger. Whisk until smooth.
3. Add sliced mushrooms and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until they’re tender and the mixture thickens slightly (about 10 minutes).
4. Pour the egg custard mixture into small cups or ramekins.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers are still slightly jiggly.
6. Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped green onions. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Gyoza (Japanese Dumplings)
Gyoza is a popular Japanese dish that consists of pan-fried dumplings filled with a mixture of ground pork and vegetables. This simple recipe yields delicious and authentic-tasting gyoza that can be enjoyed as an appetizer or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 package round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1/2 pound ground pork
– 1/2 cup finely chopped cabbage
– 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground pork, chopped cabbage, green onions, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the filling mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Dip your finger in water and run it along the edges of the wrapper.
4. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point. Press the edges together to seal the dumpling.
5. Heat about 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. When hot, add the gyoza and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
6. Serve the gyoza hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes to cook all the gyoza in batches.
Teriyaki Salmon
Experience the sweet and savory flavors of Japan with this simple Teriyaki Salmon recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, grated ginger, and sesame oil.
3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the teriyaki glaze evenly over both sides of the salmon.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Nikujaga (Meat and Potato Stew)
Nikujaga, a classic Japanese comfort food, is a hearty stew that combines tender beef and potatoes in a rich soy sauce-based broth. This simple recipe yields a flavorful and satisfying meal perfect for any time of year.
Katsudon (Pork Cutlet Rice Bowl)
A classic Japanese comfort food, Katsudon is a simple yet satisfying dish that combines crispy pork cutlets with savory rice and flavorful sauce. This recipe serves one.
Ingredients:
– 1 pork cutlet (about 1/4 inch thick)
– 1 cup cooked Japanese-style short-grain rice
– 1/2 cup Tonkatsu sauce (or Worcestershire sauce as a substitute)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sake (optional)
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Prepare the rice according to package instructions.
2. Cut the pork cutlet into thin strips and season with salt.
3. Heat one tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the pork until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together Tonkatsu sauce, soy sauce, and sake (if using).
5. Assemble the Katsudon by placing cooked rice in a bowl, topping with the breaded pork cutlet, and spooning the sauce over the top. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Kinpira Gobo (Braised Burdock Root)
Summary: Kinpira Gobo is a popular Japanese dish that braises burdock root in soy sauce and sugar to bring out its natural sweetness. This recipe yields tender, caramelized roots with a depth of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 large burdock roots (about 1 pound), peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, heat the oil over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and ginger; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the burdock pieces and stir to coat with the oil mixture.
4. Pour in the soy sauce and sugar; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the roots are tender and caramelized.
6. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Hijiki Salad
This Japanese-inspired Hijiki Salad is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines the nutty flavor of hijiki seaweed with crunchy vegetables and tangy dressing. Perfect as a side or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup hijiki seaweed, rinsed and drained
– 1/2 cup chopped cucumber
– 1/4 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup sliced carrot
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the hijiki seaweed in cold water, then drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cucumber, red bell pepper, and carrot.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
4. Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture and toss to coat.
5. Add the hijiki seaweed and toss gently to combine.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Takoyaki (Octopus Balls)
Takoyaki, also known as Octopus Balls, is a popular Japanese street food that combines the flavors of seafood, savory sauce, and crispy batter. This recipe brings together the classic ingredients to create a mouthwatering snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup takoyaki flour
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup diced octopus (or substitute with surimi or tofu)
– 1/4 cup diced green onion
– 1/4 cup tempura bits (optional)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix together takoyaki flour and water to form a batter.
2. Add diced octopus, green onion, and tempura bits (if using) to the batter and stir well.
3. Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Using a takoyaki pan or a non-stick skillet, pour the batter mixture into small balls and fry for about 3-5 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
5. Remove from oil and drain excess oil. Serve with soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-15 minutes
Shogayaki (Ginger Pork)
Shogayaki is a popular Japanese dish that combines the flavors of ginger, soy sauce, and pork belly for a rich and savory experience. This simple recipe yields tender and juicy pork with a depth of flavor that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork belly or shoulder, sliced into thin strips
– 2 inches piece of fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup sake (or dry white wine)
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sake, brown sugar, grated ginger, and garlic.
2. Add the sliced pork to the marinade, making sure it’s coated evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat a non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Remove the pork from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Cook the pork in batches until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per batch. Serve hot with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Sukiyaki (Japanese Hot Pot)
This classic Japanese dish, Sukiyaki, is a communal favorite that brings people together around the table. With its savory broth and variety of ingredients, it’s a must-try for any food lover.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups dashi broth (or substitute with chicken or beef broth)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sake (Japanese rice wine)
– 1 tablespoon mirin (sweet Japanese cooking wine)
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1 pound thinly sliced beef (such as ribeye or sirloin), cut into bite-sized pieces
– Assorted vegetables, such as:
+ Bok choy
+ Shiitake mushrooms
+ Carrots
+ Green onions
+ Noodles (optional)
– Cooking oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine dashi broth, soy sauce, sake, mirin, and sugar. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Add beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add assorted vegetables and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles, if desired.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
Nasu Dengaku (Miso Glazed Eggplant)
A classic Japanese dish that showcases the simplicity and depth of flavor achieved by combining just a few ingredients. Nasu Dengaku is a popular summer side dish in Japan, perfect for warm weather gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants
– 1/4 cup white miso paste
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sake (or dry white wine)
– 2 tablespoons mirin (sweet Japanese cooking sake)
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice the eggplants into 1-inch thick rounds.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together miso paste, soy sauce, sake, mirin, and sugar until smooth.
4. Place the eggplant slices in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the miso glaze evenly over both sides of the eggplant.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the eggplant is tender and caramelized.
7. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Onigiri (Rice Balls)
Onigiri are classic Japanese rice balls that can be enjoyed as a snack or as part of a meal. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make these delicious treats at home.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked Japanese short-grain rice
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Fillings of your choice (e.g., salmon, tuna, pickled plum, or boiled egg)
– Sesame seeds and soy sauce for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the cooked rice by mixing it with water and salt in a large bowl.
2. Knead the mixture until it’s smooth and sticky.
3. Divide the dough into small portions, about the size of a golf ball.
4. Shape each portion into a triangle or oval shape.
5. Place your chosen filling in the center of each onigiri.
6. Fold the sides over the filling to form a compact ball.
7. Serve the onigiri with soy sauce and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time:
– 10 minutes ( preparation time)
– No cooking time needed, as the rice is already cooked
Summary
Discover the world of Japanese home cooking with these 20 authentic recipes perfect for beginners. From classic dishes like Miso Soup with Tofu and Wakame and Tamagoyaki (Japanese Rolled Omelette) to savory pancakes and skewers, this collection has something for everyone. Try your hand at Tonkatsu (Japanese Pork Cutlet), Gyudon (Beef Bowl), or Yakinori (Grilled Chicken Skewers). Other highlights include Chawanmushi (Savory Egg Custard), Gyoza (Japanese Dumplings), and Teriyaki Salmon. These recipes are sure to delight both beginners and seasoned cooks alike, offering a taste of traditional Japanese cuisine in the comfort of your own home.
