Japanese cuisine is famous all over the world and for good reason. From traditional dishes to modern, complex creations, Japanese food has found its place worldwide with popular dishes such as sushi, ramen and udon.
However, Japanese cuisine also has another unexplored facet: street food, which deserves its own space in the international culinary scene. Read on to discover the best Japanese street food.
List of best street food in Japan
Some of the famous street foods in Japan are:
1. Takoyaki
Literally translating to "grilled octopus", Takoyaki is made with wheat flour batter, octopus, pickled ginger, tempura scraps and green onions. They are cooked in a special mold to turn them into balls, helping them develop crispy exteriors and soft, gooey insides.
They are then topped with takoyaki sauce, Japanese kewpie mayo and aonori.
2. Dango
These are small Japanese rice dumplings, typically served on bamboo skewers. Made with glutinous rice flour, they are often coated in red bean paste, sweet soy sauce syrup or kinako. They come in a variety of flavours, depending on the region of the country you're in.
3. Tamagoyaki
Translating literally to "grilled egg", Tamagoyaki is a type of Japanese omelette that is rolled repeatedly in thin layers. In this dish, eggs are beaten with mirin, dashi and sugar. Then, they are cooked in thin layers and rolled into a distinctive rectangular shape.
4. Crepes (Harajuku-style)
Harajuku-style crepes are a popular take on the French classic. As opposed to French crepes, Japanese crepes are thinner and served in a cone form. Some popular fillings include whipped cream, fresh fruits, ice cream, brownie pieces or sauces like caramel and matcha.
They also have savoury versions with fillings like eggs, ham and cheese.
Places To Eat Street Food In Japan
The best of Japan's street food can be found in the following places:
- Nishiki Market, Kyoto
- Kuromon Ichiba, Osaka
- Togoshi Ginza Shotengai, Tokyo
Conclusion
As you explore niche ramen shops, standing sushi bars, donburi restaurants and convenience stores for a unique Japanese culinary experience, remember to explore the street food scene. Street food offers ease, allowing you to eat on the go and at affordable prices.
As you plan your trip, remember to research well so you don't miss any must-have experiences, ensure you have all essential documentation and acquire travel insurance for Japan that can offer protection against unforeseen events like theft, delays and cancellations.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the topic featured in the article. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.