10 Delicious Japanese Dishes That Go Beyond Sushi For Raw Fish Skeptics

If the thought of raw fish sends you running, fear not! Japanese cuisine offers an incredible array of dishes that don’t involve eating any raw fish at all. From steaming bowls of ramen to crispy tempura, there’s a whole world of flavors waiting to be explored. Here are ten mouth-watering Japanese dishes that will make you forget all about sushi.

1. Ramen

Forget instant noodles; authentic Japanese ramen is a culinary masterpiece. A bowl of ramen features noodles swimming in a flavorful broth, topped with meats like cha—shu pork, green onions, seaweed, and sometimes a soft-boiled egg. Each region in Japan adds its own twist, making it a must-try dish.

2. Tempura

Tempura is a delightful dish consisting of battered and deep-fried vegetables, meat or seafood. It’s light, crispy, and served with a dipping sauce that perfectly complements the delicate flavors of the fried ingredients. Sometimes tempura may be simply served with a bit of sea salt on the side. Whether you opt for shrimp, sweet potato, or green beans, tempura is a crowd-pleaser.

3. Okonomiyaki

Often described as a Japanese savory pancake, okonomiyaki is made from a batter and cabbage, mixed with a variety of ingredients like squid, pork, and shrimp, then topped with a sweet-savory sauce and mayonnaise. This dish is especially popular in Osaka and Hiroshima.

4. Yakitori

Yakitori, which means “grilled chicken,” is a simple yet delicious dish. Skewered chicken is seasoned and grilled to perfection, making it a perfect snack or appetizer. You can find yakitori stalls at many street fairs and festivals across Japan, each offering their unique take on this classic dish.

5. Udon

Thick, chewy, and utterly satisfying, udon noodles are a staple in Japanese cuisine. These noodles are typically served in a hot soy-dashi broth with various toppings like scallions, tempura, or tofu. Udon is comforting, filling, and a great sushi alternative. Kagawa prefecture on Japan’s Shikoku island is famous for its Sanuki-style Udon. It is a must try.

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6. Tonkatsu

Tonkatsu is a breaded and deep-fried pork cutlet that is crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside. It’s typically served with shredded cabbage, rice, and a thick, sweet sauce that complements the savory pork perfectly. This dish is a must-try for meat lovers.

7. Soba

Soba noodles are made from buckwheat and can be enjoyed chilled with a dipping sauce or in a hot broth as a noodle soup. The chilled version is appreciated on hot sultry days and it is often paired with tempura at some restaurants. These noodles have a nutty flavor and are a popular, lighter alternative to heavier wheat noodles.

8. Katsu Curry

Katsu curry combines the crispy delight of tonkatsu with the rich flavors of Japanese curry sauce, usually served over rice. It’s a hearty, comforting dish that blends crunch, spice, and a hint of sweetness.

9. Takoyaki

Takoyaki are ball-shaped snacks made of a wheat-flour-based batter and cooked with minced octopus, pickled ginger, and green onion. Topped with takoyaki sauce, mayonnaise, and bonito flakes, these bites are a popular street food in Osaka.

10. Miso Soup

Miso soup is a traditional Japanese soup consisting of a stock called “dashi” mixed with softened miso paste. Often containing seaweed, tofu, and green onions, it’s a warm, savory dish commonly served as a side but delightful enough to enjoy on its own.

Whether you’re exploring Japanese cuisine for the first time or looking to expand your palate beyond sushi, these dishes offer delicious insights into Japan’s rich culinary heritage. Each dish tells a story of regional flavors and cooking techniques that are sure to intrigue and satisfy. Don’t miss out on these flavorsome experiences!

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Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.