Tsukemono, or Japanese pickles (漬物), are essential in Japanese cuisine, accompanying almost all traditional meals with rice and miso soup. They are prized for their distinctive flavors and frequently serve as a garnish, condiment, palate cleanser, or digestive aid. It’s worth noting that contrary to the idea conveyed by some […]
Does this emoji, 🍥, ring a bell? You’ve surely seen it floating in ramen bowls or simply presented on a board, wondering what it is… Here’s kamaboko, a renowned specialty in Japanese cuisine! What Is Kamaboko? Kamaboko, almost similar to surimi, is actually a fish paste, presented as a half-cylinder […]
Gyudon, katsudon, kaisendon… Have you noticed the little syllable “don” that makes up the richness and variety of “donburi” dishes? There is indeed an incredible array of donburi recipes in Japan, where it is considered a staple of Japanese cuisine. But what exactly does donburi refer to? What is Donburi? […]
Banchan are much more than simple side dishes; they are a symbol of Korean hospitality and generosity. Served in small portions, these Korean dishes are designed to be shared, thus encouraging conviviality and sharing at the table. Among the most iconic Banchan, we find Kimchi (김치), spicy and crunchy fermented […]
If you’ve read the article about nori, this one should also catch your attention… Nori, aonori, there’s indeed a lot to question. Aonori is actually also an edible seaweed, the basics of Japanese cuisine. But then, what’s the difference between nori and aonori? And how can we use it? What […]
If you’re a fan of sushi, maki, or “onigiri, you’re very likely familiar with nori… Nori is t” hat edible dark wrapper that holds the ingredients together while adding salty flavors to your dish. It’s a staple in the Land of the Rising Sun! What Is Nori? Nori is a […]
You may have already seen these small green leaves adorning your plate. Make no mistake… Shiso, still very little known in our regions, closely resembles mint or basil, both in appearance and taste. It’s an extremely versatile plant that can harmonize with a good number of dishes. Let’s explain. What […]
Used for over 4000 years now, it goes without saying that sesame seeds have earned a special place in our daily lives; and with all the culinary and cultural richness that comes with it, from the United States to Asia! What Are Sesame Seeds? The sesame seed itself comes from […]
If you browse through my articles dedicated to Japanese cuisine, you’ll notice that kombu is an ingredient I frequently mention. But what is kombu, and why does it occupy such an important place in Japanese gastronomy? This article aims to answer these questions. What is Kombu? Kombu, also known as […]
What is Paitan broth? Paitan, a word derived from Chinese, refers to a “white soup” in culinary context. This term is specifically associated with varieties of Japanese Ramen whose broth is cloudy, milky, and opaque. It’s important to note that a “pure” white color is not an absolute necessity for […]
