QUEZON City, Philippines (Eagle News Service, June 29) – When we hear Japanese food, the first thing that comes to mind is sushi! This dish, mainly composed of raw fish, had indelibly marked our perception of Japanese cuisine.
But going beyond sushi, there’s a lot more to discover about Japanese food. From takoyaki to sashimi, from tempura to ramen, don’t be afraid to try out these amazing Japanese dishes.
Here are some fun facts about Japanese cuisine.
1. Eat your miso soup before the meal. It’s good for the digestion.
2. The Japanese believe that you not only eat with your mouth but with your eyes as well. Hence, Japanese food always look mouth-wateringly good.
3. There is an infamous delicacy in Japan known as fugu sashi, which is made from the deadly puffer fish.
4. 80% of the bluefin tuna caught in the world’s ocean goes to Japan.
5. The highest price ever paid for a bluefin tuna was $396, 000 for a 754 lb. fish. That means that every pound is worth $526. Said fish was sold on January 4, 2011 at the Tsukiji Fish Market in Tokyo.
6. Tempura consists of vegetables or seafood covered in light batter then deep-fried. It is actually a Portuguese dish adopted by the Japanese.
7. Tako-yaki is composed of diced octopus, batter, tempura scraps, green onion and pickled ginger. Popular in Osaka, it was first sold by its inventor, Endo Tomekichi in 1935.
8. The Japanese are very serious when it comes to food. As proof, Michelin awarded three stars, which is the highest rating, to more restaurants in Tokyo compared to Paris.
9. Slurping noodles is an acceptable way to indicate that it is delicious.
Remember, Japanese food is more than just sushi so don’t be afraid to try out other Japanese dishes! Itadakimasu!
(ENS, written by Jay Paul Carlos)
