40 Best Japanese Recipes (Easy & Delicious)

Ranging from sushi to ramen and fish, there are only a few Japanese recipes that people have tried, and they think this is all Japanese food is about.

If you have been in the same boat, we are sharing the best Japanese recipes because everyone deserves to enjoy the diverse flavors.

All these recipes are beginner friendly and need minimal effort; you don’t have to worry about long cooking hours.

These recipes have a perfect balance of umami and savory tones that will capture your heart.

Sushi Rolls

Sushi rolls, also known as makizushi, are one of the most iconic and well known Japanese dishes around the world.

They consist of vinegared rice combined with raw or cooked seafood, vegetables, and sometimes even fruits, all rolled up in nori.

The rolls are typically sliced into bite sized pieces and served with pickled ginger, soy sauce, and wasabi.

Sushi rolls offer a harmonious blend of flavors, textures, and colors, making them a delight to the senses.

Ramen Noodles

Ramen noodles have gained a significant following worldwide due to their comforting and flavorful qualities.

It typically consists of wheat noodles served in a rich, savory broth, accompanied by various toppings like sliced pork, green onions, nori, and soft-boiled eggs.

Each region in Japan has its own unique style of ramen, ranging from the rich and creamy tonkotsu ramen of Hakata to the soy based shoyu ramen of Tokyo.

Whether you prefer a hearty miso broth or a light shio (salt) broth, ramen offers a deeply satisfying and filling meal.

Tempura

Tempura is a popular Japanese dish consisting of battered and deep fried seafood, vegetables, or even tofu.

The batter used is usually made from a mixture of wheat flour, egg, and ice-cold water, resulting in a light and crispy texture.

Tempura is often served as a main course or as a side dish alongside a dipping sauce called tentsuyu, made from soy sauce, mirin, and dashi.

The delicate crunch of tempura combined with the natural flavors of the ingredients creates a delightful contrast that is both satisfying and addictive.

Miso Soup

Miso soup is a classic Japanese soup known for its simplicity and umami rich flavors.

It is made with dashi, a broth typically created from kombu (dried kelp) and bonito flakes (dried fish flakes), and fermented soybean paste called miso.

The soup is often accompanied by ingredients like tofu, seaweed, green onions, and mushrooms.

Miso soup is a great side dish or as part of traditional Japanese breakfast. The balance of salty and savory has the Japanese essence.

Teriyaki Chicken

Teriyaki chicken is a beloved Japanese dish that has gained popularity worldwide.

It involves marinating chicken in a sweet and savory sauce made from soy sauce, mirin (sweet rice wine), sugar, and sometimes ginger and garlic.

The marinated chicken is then grilled or pan fried until it develops a delicious caramelized glaze.

The combination of tender chicken and the glossy, sticky glaze creates a delightful balance of flavors.

Yakitori

Yakitori refers to skewered grilled chicken, a popular street food in Japan.

The bite-sized pieces of chicken are threaded onto bamboo skewers and grilled over charcoal, imparting a smoky and savory flavor.

Yakitori can be seasoned with a variety of sauces, such as tare (a sweet and savory soy based glaze) or salt.

The simplicity of yakitori highlights the natural flavors of the chicken, making it a delicious and satisfying option for meat lovers.

Okonomiyaki

Okonomiyaki is a savory pancake that originated in Osaka and Hiroshima but is now enjoyed throughout Japan.

The batter is made from flour, grated yam, eggs, and shredded cabbage, and it can be customized by adding pork belly, shrimp, squid, or cheese.

Okonomiyaki is typically cooked on a griddle and topped with a variety of condiments, including okonomi sauce (similar to Worcestershire sauce).

It also has mayonnaise, bonito flakes, and dried seaweed. This hearty and flavorful dish is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Tonkatsu

Tonkatsu is a popular Japanese dish consisting of breaded and deep-fried pork cutlets.

The pork is typically coated in flour, dipped in beaten eggs, covered in panko breadcrumbs, and fried until golden brown.

Tonkatsu is served with a tangy tonkatsu sauce, which is a blend of Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, soy sauce, and other seasonings.

It is often accompanied by shredded cabbage and rice. The crispy exterior and tender meat make tonkatsu a delightful indulgence.

Sukiyaki

Thinly sliced beef is simmered in a sweet and savory broth made from soy sauce, mirin, sugar, and sake, along with tofu, mushrooms, onions, and noodles.

The ingredients are cooked at the table, allowing everyone to participate in the cooking process. This hot pot dish is perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Once cooked, the sukiyaki is typically dipped in beaten raw eggs before being enjoyed.

This comforting and interactive dish is a wonderful way to experience the communal nature of Japanese cuisine.

Gyoza

Gyoza is delicious Japanese dumplings that are often pan-fried and served as an appetizer or side dish.

The dumplings are typically filled with a mixture of ground pork, cabbage, garlic, and ginger, although there are also vegetarian and seafood variations available.

The wrappers are thin and slightly chewy, and the bottoms are crispy from being fried.

These flavorful and addictive dumplings are a favorite in izakayas (Japanese pubs) and are enjoyed by people of all ages.

Udon Noodles

Udon noodles are thick and chewy wheat noodles that are a beloved staple in Japanese cuisine.

They are typically served in a hot soy based broth with various toppings such as sliced green onions, tempura, or kamaboko (fish cake).

Udon noodles can also be enjoyed cold in a refreshing dipping sauce called tsuyu.

The versatility of udon allows for a wide range of preparations, and it is a satisfying and comforting dish, especially during colder months.

Sashimi

Sashimi is a culinary art form that showcases the freshness and quality of raw seafood.

It consists of thinly sliced raw fish or seafood, such as tuna, salmon, yellowtail, or scallops, and is often served with soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger.

Sashimi is appreciated for its clean and delicate flavors, and the skillful knife work required creating thin and precise slices.

It is typically served as an appetizer or part of a formal kaiseki meal, allowing diners to savor the pure essence of the seafood.

Oyakodon

Oyakodon is a comforting one-bowl dish that translates to “parent and child” in Japanese.

It features a bed of steamed rice topped with a flavorful mixture of chicken, onions, and beaten eggs.

It is then gently simmered until the eggs are cooked and form a custard-like layer.

Oyakodon is a popular choice for a satisfying meal, and its combination of tender chicken, sweet onions, and silky eggs make each bite a delight.

Chawanmushi

Chawanmushi is a delicate and savory Japanese egg custard dish that is often enjoyed as an appetizer.

It is made by steaming a mixture of beaten eggs, dashi (broth made from kombu and bonito flakes), soy sauce, mirin, shrimp, mushrooms, and ginkgo nuts.

Chawanmushi is served in small cups or bowls and has a silky smooth texture.

The flavors meld together harmoniously, creating a light and comforting dish that is as visually pleasing as it is delicious.

Takoyaki

They are savory, ball-shaped snacks made from a batter of wheat flour, dashi, and eggs, filled with diced octopus, pickled ginger, and green onions.

Takoyaki are cooked in a special takoyaki pan, which has round molds, and are continuously turned until golden brown and crispy on the outside.

They are then topped with takoyaki sauce, mayonnaise, bonito flakes, and dried seaweed.

These piping hot and flavorful bites offer a delightful combination of textures and flavors, making them a must try street food in Japan.

Katsu Curry

Katsu curry is a delicious fusion dish that combines Japanese curry with a breaded and deep fried cutlet, usually made from pork (tonkatsu) or chicken.

The crispy cutlet is served on a bed of steamed rice and topped with rich and flavorful Japanese curry sauce.

Katsu curry is a satisfying and hearty meal that brings together the comforting flavors of curry and the indulgence of the crispy cutlet.

It is often garnished with pickles and enjoyed with a side of miso soup.

Nikujaga

Nikujaga is a popular Japanese home-cooked dish that translates to “meat and potatoes.”

It is a comforting stew made with thinly sliced beef simmered in a flavorful soy-based broth with potatoes, onions, carrots, and sometimes other vegetables.

The dish is typically seasoned with soy sauce, mirin, and sugar, resulting in a sweet and savory flavor profile.

Nikujaga is a staple in Japanese households and offers a hearty and satisfying meal that is often enjoyed with steamed rice.

Yakisoba

Yakisoba is a stir fried noodle dish that features wheat noodles cooked with a variety of vegetables, meat, or seafood, and a tangy sauce.

The noodles are stir-fried until they are slightly crispy, and the dish is often garnished with pickled ginger and bonito flakes.

Yakisoba is a popular street food and can also be found in many Japanese restaurants.

It is a quick and flavorful option, offering a harmonious blend of textures and umami rich flavors.

Katsudon

Katsudon is a comforting Japanese rice bowl dish that consists of a deep-fried breaded pork cutlet (tonkatsu).

It is simmered in a sweet and savory sauce along with onions and beaten eggs. The mixture is then poured over a bowl of steamed rice.

The heat from the sauce gently cooks the eggs, creating a luscious and creamy topping.

Katsudon is a popular choice for lunch or dinner and offers a satisfying combination of crispy tonkatsu, fluffy rice, and a flavorful sauce.

Soba Noodles

Soba noodles are thin, buckwheat noodles that are a staple in Japanese cuisine. Soba noodles are a healthy option, and its popularity extends beyond Japan.

They can be enjoyed either hot or cold and are commonly served in a soy based broth or as a noodle salad.

Soba noodles are known for their nutty flavor and a slightly chewy texture that sets them apart from other types of noodles.

They are often garnished with green onions, seaweed, tempura, or a variety of toppings.

Onigiri

Onigiri, also known as rice balls, are a popular Japanese snack or light meal. Onigiri are a quintessential part of Japanese culinary culture.

They are made by shaping seasoned sushi rice into a triangular or oval shape and are often wrapped in a sheet of seaweed (nori).

Onigiri can be filled with various ingredients such as pickled plums (umeboshi), grilled salmon, tuna mayo, or other savory fillings.

They are a convenient and portable option, commonly enjoyed as a quick bite or as a lunchbox staple.

Shabu Shabu

Shabu Shabu is a popular Japanese hot pot dish that involves cooking thinly sliced meat, along with an assortment of vegetables and tofu in a boiling broth.

The name “shabu shabu” comes from the sound the ingredients make when they are swished back and forth in the hot broth.

Once the ingredients are cooked, they are typically dipped in flavorful sauces, such as ponzu or sesame sauce, before being enjoyed.

Shabu shabu is a fun and interactive dining experience, allowing you to savor the delicate flavors of the ingredients.

Mochi

Mochi is a traditional Japanese rice cake made from glutinous rice that has been pounded into a sticky and chewy texture.

It is often consumed during special occasions and festivals. Mochi comes in various shapes, sizes, and flavors.

You can accentuate it with sweet fillings such as red bean paste (anko), strawberries, or ice cream.

Mochi has a unique and satisfying texture, and it is a beloved treat in Japan.

Donburi

Donburi, or “rice bowl,” refers to a dish which includes a bowl of steamed rice topped with various ingredients.

There are numerous types of donburi, such as gyudon (beef bowl), oyakodon (chicken and egg bowl), and katsudon (breaded pork cutlet bowl).

The toppings are often simmered in a flavorful sauce and served over the rice, depending on what you like.

Donburi is a simple and filling meal enjoyed for its convenience and delicious combination of flavors.

Hiyayakko

Hiyayakko is a refreshing and simple Japanese dish that consists of chilled tofu topped with various garnishes.

The tofu is served as a cold block and can be enjoyed as is or lightly seasoned with soy sauce, grated ginger, green onions, bonito flakes, or grated radish.

It’s a delicious side dish or appetizer that showcases the delicate flavor and smooth texture of tofu.

As a result, it will provide a light and cooling option, especially during hot summer months.

Chirashi Sushi

Chirashi sushi, also known as scattered sushi, is a colorful and vibrant dish that features a bowl of sushi rice.

In addition, you can add toppings like fresh sashimi, vegetables, and other toppings.

The toppings can include fish like tuna, salmon, or yellowtail, as well as shrimp, tamagoyaki (rolled omelet), and cucumber, among others.

Chirashi sushi offers a delightful combination of flavors, textures, and colors, and it is often garnished with pickled ginger and wasabi.

Oden

Oden is a popular Japanese winter dish that consists of various ingredients, such as tofu, fish cakes, daikon radish, and boiled eggs.

It also has konnyaku (a jelly like substance made from a type of yam), which is simmered in a flavorful soy based broth.

Oden is typically enjoyed as a hot pot dish, and the ingredients are often skewered for easy serving.

The warm and comforting flavors of the broth permeate the ingredients, creating a hearty and satisfying dish perfect for colder days.

Anmitsu

Anmitsu is a Japanese dessert that consists of a bowl filled with cubes of agar jelly, sweet red bean paste (anko), fruits, mochi, and a drizzle of kuromitsu.

It is often served with a side of whipped cream or a scoop of green tea ice cream.

Anmitsu offers a delightful combination of flavors, with the sweetness of the jelly and red bean paste balanced by the freshness of the fruits.

It is a popular choice for a refreshing and indulgent treat during the warmer months.

Tamagoyaki

Tamagoyaki is a rolled Japanese omelet that is made by whisking together eggs, soy sauce, and sometimes sugar, and then rolling the mixture into thin layers.

The layers are stacked and rolled into a log shape, resulting in a slightly sweet and savory omelet with a unique texture.

Tamagoyaki is often enjoyed as a breakfast dish, served as a topping for sushi, or included in bento boxes.

Its distinct flavor and presentation make it a beloved staple in Japanese cuisine.

Nabe

Nabe is a Japanese hot pot dish that’s typically enjoyed during the colder months.

It involves cooking different ingredients, such as sliced meat, vegetables, tofu, and noodles, in simmering broth at the center of the dining table.

The ingredients are cooked together, and diners can customize their own bowls by adding dipping sauces like ponzu or sesame sauce.

Nabe is a comforting and social dining experience that brings people together to enjoy warm and flavorful meals.

Inarizushi

Inarizushi is a type of sushi that features a pocket of seasoned and fried tofu, known as abura-age, filled with sushi rice.

The tofu pouches are simmered in a mixture of soy sauce, mirin, and sugar, which infuses them with a sweet and savory flavor.

The sushi rice is lightly seasoned with vinegar and salt. Inarizushi is a convenient option, often enjoyed as a snack or included in bento boxes.

Its combination of soft tofu, flavorful rice, and a hint of sweetness makes it a delightful treat.

Zaru Soba

Zaru soba is a chilled noodle dish made from thin buckwheat noodles that are served on a bamboo tray (zaru) alongside a dipping sauce called tsuyu.

The noodles are typically dipped into the sauce and garnished with grated daikon radish as well as nori (dried seaweed).

Zaru soba is a popular choice during the summer months as the cold noodles provide a refreshing and light meal.

It is enjoyed for its simplicity and the nutty flavor of the buckwheat noodles.

Matcha Ice Cream

Matcha ice cream is a popular Japanese dessert made from finely ground green tea leaves. It has a vibrant green color and a distinct earthy flavor.

Matcha ice cream is often made by combining matcha powder with milk, cream, and sugar, and then churning it with the help of an ice cream maker.

It is a creamy and refreshing treat that is loved by both locals and visitors.

Matcha ice cream can be used as a topping for parfaits or mochi, but you can enjoy it separately as well.

Zoni

Zoni is a traditional Japanese soup typically enjoyed during the New Year’s festivities.

It consists of a clear broth made from dashi (a Japanese stock), along with mochi (rice cakes), vegetables, and often grilled or boiled chicken or seafood.

The ingredients may vary by region, but zoni is known for its hearty and comforting flavors.

It is a special dish that symbolizes good luck and is commonly shared with family and friends during the New Year’s celebrations.

Unagi Don

Unagi don, or grilled eel rice bowl, features grilled freshwater eel glazed with a sweet and savory sauce served over a bowl of steamed rice.

The eel is typically grilled until it becomes tender and slightly charred, and the sauce adds a rich umami flavor.

Unagi don is often garnished with sliced cucumber, shredded nori (dried seaweed), and sometimes served with a side of pickles.

It is a luxurious and delicious dish enjoyed for its unique combination of flavors.

Kaisendon

Kaisendon, also known as seafood rice bowl, is a dish that showcases a variety of fresh sashimi (raw seafood) served over a bowl of sushi rice.

The sashimi can include slices of tuna, salmon, yellowtail, octopus, and other seasonal seafood.

Kaisendon is often garnished with shredded nori, tobiko (flying fish roe), and a drizzle of soy sauce or a special sauce.

It offers a delightful mix of textures, flavors, and colors, allowing seafood lovers to savor the essence of the ocean in each bite.

Agedashi Tofu

Agedashi tofu is a popular Japanese appetizer made from cubes of tofu that are coated in potato starch and deep fried until golden brown.

The tofu is then served in a savory dashi based sauce and garnished with grated daikon radish, sliced green onions, and bonito flakes.

Agedashi tofu has a crispy exterior and a soft and silky interior, creating a delightful contrast in textures.

It is a flavorful and satisfying dish that showcases the versatility of tofu in Japanese cuisine.

Omurice

Omurice is a beloved Japanese dish that combines Western omelette and Japanese fried rice.

It consists of a fluffy omelette filled with fried rice, often cooked with vegetables, chicken, or other ingredients.

The omelette is typically topped with a drizzle of ketchup or a rich demi glace sauce.

Omurice is a comforting and satisfying dish that offers a harmonious blend of flavors. It is often garnished with parsley and served with or pickles.

Taiyaki

Taiyaki is a popular Japanese street food snack that is shaped like a fish (tai) and traditionally filled with anko, which is a sweet bean paste.

Then, the mixture/batter is poured into a fish-shaped mold and cooked until golden and crispy on the outside.

Taiyaki can also be filled with other sweet fillings such as custard, chocolate, or matcha.

The warm and soft filling combined with the crunchy exterior makes taiyaki a delightful treats enjoyed by people of all ages.

Yudofu

Yudofu is a simple and comforting Japanese dish that features tofu simmered in a light and delicate kombu (dried kelp) and soy based broth.

The tofu is gently cooked until it becomes soft, absorbing the flavors of the broth. Yudofu is often enjoyed in the colder months as a warming and nourishing meal.

It is served with a dipping sauce or condiments such as grated ginger, green onions, or ponzu.

Yudofu showcases the purity and subtlety of tofu as a key ingredient in Japanese cuisine.

Final Thoughts

If you have been looking for delicious food items but need something unique, we are sure the list of Japanese recipes will befit you.

We promise not to intimidate you with the Japanese recipes because they are simple, tasty, and easy to make.

This collection of recipes can be tried out at home, and you won’t even have to worry about complex processes because they are beginner friendly.

Nonetheless, we promise that this combination of desserts and dinner meals is authentic, and you will be able to enjoy the hints of Japan.