Japan is a unique and beautiful country with a rich history and culture. It is also an extemely popular destination and is home to many unique foods. No trip to a new place is complete without trying local dishes, delicacies and delights, but it can be useful to know what kind of interesting foods you may encounter ahead of time. Here are a few common Japanese foods that you need to try before you head to Japan.
Seaweed
As an island nation, Japan has long used the bounty of the sea for staples of their cuisine. Seaweed is popular and common in many different forms and it can be used as a supporting ingredient or the main star of a dish. It is used in certain drinks and sushi and enjoyed as a snack. The taste of seaweed is generally considered an umami flavour, which is a savoury, salty and almost meaty flavour combination. In addition to its unique flavour, seaweed is packed with vitamins and minerals, fibre and thyroid-booster tyrosine.
Matcha
Matcha is finely ground, specialised tea leaves. It is different from green tea in that it is more concentrated. A common ingredient in many foods, including noodles and Japanese desserts and confections, matcha tends to act as a dye, similar in colour to pistachio. The unique flavour profile starts with a rich aromatic flavour, then a brief bitterness and then finishes with a gentle and lingering sweetness. It is filled with catechins and polyphenols. According to Matcha Island, catechins are among the most powerful antioxidants and one specific catechin called epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) makes up 60% of the catechins in matcha.
Uni
Uni is the edible part of those spiky sea critters, sea urchins. According to Sushi FAQ, uni is mostly featured in sushi and sashimi dishes. Uni is prized for its soft, creamy texture. It has a slightly sweet flavour, with a briny and salty undertone common for sea animals. Although popularly considered an aphrodisiac, uni has a number of healthy attributes. Packed with beneficial omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins A and C, uni is a great source of dense protein that’s a unique treat for many.
These are just three of the foods you must try before you visit Japan. This is in order for you to be primed for your culinary experience. Many foods common to Japan are rising in international popularity but may have escaped your notice. Preparing yourself will give you a good idea of what to seek out or avoid, letting you maximize your time in this interesting and beautiful country without worrying about what to eat.
While visiting Japan, make sure you don’t miss out on these amazing experiences!
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