Japanese Cuisine: Where Aesthetics, Technique, and Simplicity Meet in 3 Iconic Flavors

Japanese cuisine (Washoku) is not just food, but an art form and a cultural experience. The balance of flavors, the seasonality of ingredients, and the aesthetics of presentation form the basis of this cuisine. Protected even by UNESCO, Japanese cuisine is one of the world’s healthiest and most respected culinary traditions.

In this article, we examine the main symbol of Japanese gastronomic tradition, its traditional dessert, and the most fun street food delicacy of the Osaka streets.

Here is Japan’s gourmet trio: Sushi, Mochi, and Takoyaki.

1. The Symbol of the Main Dish: Sushi

Sushi is the gateway of Japanese cuisine to the world and is an art form requiring mastery more than just a flavor. Becoming a Sushi master (itamae) requires years of training.

• What is it? Essentially prepared by placing seafood (neta) or vegetables on specialized vinegared rice (shari). Varieties include nigiri (slice atop rice), maki (roll), and sashimi (fish slice without rice).
• Why is it Special? The perfection of Sushi lies in the harmony between the freshness of the fish and the temperature/texture of the rice. The vinegar in the rice perfectly balances the saltiness in the fish.
• History: It originated as a preservation method (narezushi), where rice was used to preserve fish, before transforming into a quickly prepared food item during the Edo period.

2. The Tradition of Desserts: Mochi

Mochi is one of Japan’s most established and traditional sweets. Known for its flexible and chewy texture, it is traditionally consumed during New Year’s celebrations to bring good luck.

• What is it? Made by pounding short-grain glutinous rice (mochigome) for minutes in a mortar until it forms a smooth and elastic dough.
• How is it Eaten? It can be eaten plain, but is usually served filled with sweet red bean paste (anko) or, in its modern form, filled with ice cream (mochi ice cream).
• The Trick: The traditional preparation process for Mochi is called mochitsuki and is a major, social event.

3. The Fun of the Streets: Takoyaki (Octopus Balls)

The most popular and fun street food of Japan, especially the streets of Osaka, is definitely Takoyaki. It is fast, cheap, and extremely delicious.

• What is it? Small, batter-based balls cooked in special round-molded pans, containing a small piece of octopus (tako), ginger, and green onion.
• Serving Style: It is served topped with a special sweet-savory takoyaki sauce, mayonnaise, green seaweed (aonori), and thin shavings of dried bonito flakes (katsuobushi).
• The Flavor Experience: The insides are very hot and creamy when served. The way the katsuobushi flakes tremble from the heat provides a visual feast for the meal.