Every culture has its beloved childhood dishes – those comforting flavors that bring back warm memories of family dinners and special occasions. Of course, Japan is no exception. In this article, we’ll explore some classic Japanese dishes that children adore, offering a glimpse into the heart of family cuisine in Japan. A lot of the recipes are actually proven by my lovely readers’ families!
Please keep in mind that many Japanese recipes contain sake and mirin which are alcoholic condiments. Japanese families use these condiments in everyday life and most of the alcohol is burned off during the cooking process, all the dishes below are served from a young age. For those who want to avoid using any alcohol, please refer to my sake and mirin guides that provide substitutions and alternatives.
1. Chicken Karaage
My absolute favorite since when I was a kid and counting! This Japanese fried chicken is crispy, juicy, and bursting with flavor—a sure crowd-pleaser. My karaage recipe strikes the perfect balance between salty, umami, and sweet notes in the marinade. The secret? A starch coating for an irresistible crunch.
Kids and adults alike will love this dish. It’s perfect for family dinners or as an impressive party appetizer. I also have a recipe for zesty chicken breast version too!
2. Teriyaki Chicken
Teriyaki chicken is a beloved Japanese dish that’s both simple and delicious. My version stays true to tradition, featuring juicy chicken thighs with crispy skin glazed in a homemade sweet-salty sauce. The secret? Authentic ingredients like mirin and sake for that perfect teriyaki flavor.
This recipe is a great way to introduce kids to Japanese cuisine. It’s mild enough for young palates but packed with flavor adults will appreciate. Busy moms will love how quickly this crowd-pleaser comes together, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or fun cooking projects with them.
I also have recipes for teriyaki chicken bowl and teriyaki chicken pizza!
3. Chicken Yakitori
Yakitori brings the flavors of Japanese street food right to your kitchen. My Negima recipe is a tasty mix of juicy chicken chunks and charred leeks, glazed in a savory-sweet yakitori sauce. And the best part is… You can get that authentic grilled taste by using just a frying pan.
This dish is a great way to introduce kids to new flavors and textures. It’s a fun, hands-on meal that even picky eaters might enjoy. Busy moms will love how quickly these skewers come together, making them great for weeknight dinners or as a unique addition to backyard barbecues.
If your kids are not fans of leeks, you can simply make skewers with chicken only or try adding their favorite vegetables instead!
4. Milano Doria
This is one of my readers’ proven recipes! Check out this lovely comment!
“This recipe is outstanding! I can’t recommend it enough. I make it every time my kids have friends over and they devour it all. Better than the real thing 🙂 Thank you so much!”
Stuart
“I love the recipe! It’s one of my family favourite. It brings me back memories from when I was a student living in Tokyo.”
– Cindy
Milano Doria is a much-loved fusion dish that brings together Westerm flavors with Japanese comfort food. My recipe is a close copy of Saizeriya’s famous version. It features creamy white sauce, savory meat sauce, and melted cheese over golden turmeric rice. It’s baked to perfection for that irresistible crispy top.
Kids will love this cheesy, satisfying meal that feels both familiar and exciting. Busy moms can make this crowd-pleaser for a special weeknight dinner or weekend treat!
5. Nagoya Style Chicken Wings
Another recipe loved by my reader!
“I have never been to Nagoya so i didnt know what to expect. But I tried this recipe today for lunch with my sisters family. It was a hit with the kids. These wings were super flavorful and delicious. Wonderful recipe and simple to make too.”
– Ce
Nagoya Tebasaki are crispy, flavorful chicken wings with a unique twist. These deep-fried wings are brushed with a special glaze and dusted with white pepper, creating a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy. The crispy skin and tender meat make them finger-licking good.
If your older kids like a bit of spice, these wings are a great option. If you’re looking for something different for family dinners, these wings offer an exciting taste of Japan that’s sure to be a hit. They’re perfect for game nights or as a fun weekend cooking project with the kids.
6. Omurice
This is probably one of the kids’ approved dishes in Japan! Omurice is a fluffy omelet with sweet and savory ketchup rice. My recipe is simple and focuses on perfecting the tangy rice filling and pairing it with a gently cooked egg. The result is a comforting meal that’s both familiar and exciting.
Kids in Japan love drawing something they like with the ketchup on the omelets! This recipe offers a quick and satisfying dinner option that the whole family will enjoy.
7. Ebi Mayo
Another reader’s kids-approved recipe!
“The dressing is delicious with the shrimp. My husband and kids loved the recipe!”
– Colette
Ebi Mayo is a Japanese-Chinese fusion dish that’s sure to delight. My version features prawns in a light, crispy beer batter inspired by English fish and chips. The star is the creamy, flavorful mayo sauce with a hint of paprika that perfectly complements the crispy shrimp.
Kids will love the crunchy texture and tasty dipping sauce. It’s perfect for family dinners or as a crowd-pleasing party snack!
8. Chicken Tsukune
More reader’s kids-approved recipe!
“This recipe is SO TASTY! Everyone loved it, even my picky son. This will be on regular rotation in my house now! Thank you for the amazing recipe!”
– Akiko
Tsukune are tender, flavorful Japanese chicken meatballs that melt in your mouth. My recipe is all about achieving the softest texture possible, paired with a rich, irresistible glaze. Best of all, it’s optimized for easy pan cooking, so you can enjoy authentic Japanese flavors right at home.
These bite-sized morsels are perfect for kids who love finger foods. Everyone in the family is sure to ask for seconds of these delicious meatballs!
9. Salmon Onigiri
This Salmon Onigiri is a recipe that received a happy comment from my YouTube viewer.
“Recipes are very easy to follow and small kids can be involved in the mixing and shaping process.”
– @fiolive (from YouTube)
My salmon onigiri recipe puts a flavorful spin on this beloved Japanese snack. Instead of traditional flakes, I’ve mixed buttery, soy-glazed salmon chunks into the rice before shaping. This creates a richer, more indulgent flavor that’s sure to surprise and delight.
Onigiri is a fun way to introduce Japanese flavors to the whole family while adding variety to your usual meal routine. I also have salted, chicken, kombu, and bonito flakes onigiri variations too!
10. Teriyaki Salmon
This 10-Minute Teriyaki Salmon is another salmon recipe that received a happy comment on YouTube!
“Kids loved it… thanks for the recipe.”
– @joycelisa28 (from YouTube)
This teriyaki salmon dish brings together traditional Japanese flavors with a contemporary flair. The fish is coated in a homemade sweet-and-savory sauce and served over rice with buttery sautéed spinach and asparagus.
The kids will love the sweet glaze on the salmon, which is a great way to get them to eat more seafood. Busy moms will appreciate this quick, nutritious dinner that looks impressive but is easy to prepare!
11. Takikomi Gohan
Another family favorite by my YouTube subscriber! In fact, this is one of my own son’s favorites too!
“Love it. Always a favorite for my family.”
– @MattBrodkin (from YouTube)
Takikomi gohan is a flavorful Japanese rice dish cooked with seasonal ingredients, meat, and dashi. My recipe guides you through the process, helping you avoid common pitfalls for perfect results every time. You’ll achieve a rich, savory flavor without needing a rice cooker.
This one-pot meal is ideal for introducing kids to new vegetables and flavors!
12. Yakiton
Another grilled skewers that whole family can enjoy!
“My family loved this recipe. The only request was to double the BBQ sauce next time.”
– Dona
My Yakiton recipe features tender pork pieces glazed with a rich, savory miso sauce. It’s a unique alternative to chicken yakitori that showcases the depth of regional Japanese cuisine.
If your kids enjoy pork meat, they’ll love these flavorful skewers. They’re great for a fun family dinner or as appetizers for gatherings.
13. Chicken Tempura
Another type of Japanese fried chicken that kids will definitely love!
“Great recipe! Worked wonders and enjoyed by the whole family.”
– Karl-Henrik
Toriten is a unique Japanese dish that blends tempura and karaage techniques. My recipe features marinated chicken breast in a special thick batter, creating a perfectly crispy exterior while keeping the meat juicy.
Kids will love the crunchy texture and familiar flavors of this dish. It’s a great way to introduce regional Japanese cuisine to the family. Serve it as a main course or appetizer for a taste of Oita’s famous chicken culture right at home!
14. Sesame Dressing
“Extremely good recipe. I had to triple the recipe for my family.”
– Kerry
This was actually my favorite dressing when I was a kid! My Sesame Dressing recipe brings together ground sesame seeds, mayo, and tangy rice vinegar for a rich, creamy texture. It’s super quick to make and tastes just like the beloved bottled version, but fresher and more flavorful.
Kids who typically shy away from salads might find this dressing irresistible like me! Use it as a dip, spread, or salad dressing to add a delicious Japanese twist to family meals.
15. Shrimp Tempura Udon
“Absolutely fantastic! The whole family loved it.”
– Sandypaw
Shrimp tempura udon combines two Japanese favorites in one comforting dish. My recipe features crispy shrimp tempura atop steaming udon noodles in a savory broth. The key is letting the tempura soak up the soup, creating a perfect blend of textures and flavors.
Kids will love the fun of crunchy shrimp and slurpable noodles. It’s an ideal way to introduce the family to a new type of noodles!
16. Hambagu
Hambagu is one of the classic dishes that Japanese children love! It is safe to say that it is always included in children’s sets at restaurants!
“My family really liked this and it was fun to make. We’ve been watching the Spy Family Anime and wanted to try hambagu.“
– Stacye (from Pinterest)
My recipe mimics gourmet restaurant versions, focusing on a perfectly moist patty and rich, complex sauce. It’s a blend of beef and pork, seasoned to perfection and served without a bun.
Kids will love this familiar yet exciting dish that’s more than just a regular burger. Serve it with rice for an authentic Japanese meal that satisfies both adventurous and picky eaters alike!
17. Japanese Curry Rice Using Roux Cubes
“Amazing recipe! I am already trying to buy the curry roux so I can make it this week.”
– Natali
Japanese curry rice is a beloved comfort food that kids can’t get enough of. True story: I absolutely hated onions when I was a kid, but I had no problem when they were in curry rice.
My recipe takes this classic dish to the next level with secret tips and ingredients. The result? A rich, flavorful curry that’s even better than using premade roux alone.
This dish is great for busy families looking for a tasty meal everyone will love. Kids love the mild, sweet flavors, while parents like how easy it is to add (or even hide!) extra vegetables. It’s a flexible recipe that can be adapted to suit your family’s tastes, making it a go-to for weeknight dinners!
If your kids are not familiar with spices, make sure to buy “sweet” type of roux cubes.
18. Pork Gyoza
“These were so so delicious, the crispy bottom was just perfect! Really easy recipe to follow and the veggie ones came out just as tasty!”
– Harri
When I was a kid, gyoza was my ultimate food. I could literally eat them endlessly. My version takes the classic yaki gyoza to the next level with a special technique for maximum juiciness.
Mixing, wrapping, and frying can also be a fun family activity! It’s sure to become a family favorite.
19. Spaghetti Meat Sauce
“Really great recipe, the cinnamon and nutmeg adds depth to the meaty flavour. ❤️”
– Stella
Is it truly Japanese? Maybe not, but this beloved yoshoku dish is a hit with kids in Japan. My version of spaghetti meat sauce blends ground beef, finely cut veggies, and a sweet, herby tomato sauce for a comforting meal.
What makes my recipe special is its subtle flavor, which is great for kids but also satisfying for adults!
20. Taco Rice
Taco Rice is a lively Okinawan blend that brings together Tex-Mex flavors with a Japanese twist. My version brings together sticky Japanese rice with a colorful taco topping, seasoned to perfection with Japanese condiments. It’s a feast for the eyes and the tastebuds that kids and adults alike will love.
For little ones new to spice, simply omit the chili sauce. It’s an ideal way to introduce kids to fusion cuisine while keeping meal prep easy.
21. Temaki Sushi
Temaki sushi, or hand-rolled sushi, is a fun and interactive Japanese dish that’s great for the whole family.
What makes this recipe special is its versatility. Don’t like raw fish? No problem! Choose from countless kid-friendly fillings to suit every taste. It’s an ideal way to introduce kids to sushi while keeping dinner entertaining.
22. Chirashi Sushi
Chirashizushi is a colorful Japanese dish that’s sure to delight kids. My version features a variety of toppings scattered over sushi rice, creating a visually appealing and tasty presentation.
It is perfect for family gatherings or special occasions!
23. Takoyaki
Takoyaki, or octopus balls, are a popular Japanese street food that’s great for a fun family cooking session. My version has a crispy exterior and gooey center, filled with octopus and topped with a savory-sweet sauce. This versatile recipe doesn’t only have to be made with octopus though. In fact, it’s common for kids to add cheese or hot dog sausages instead!
This recipe is ideal for introducing kids to Japanese cuisine through interactive cooking. It’s so entertaining that there’s even a Japanese term “Takopa” (Takoyaki Party) for the experience.
24. Okonomiyaki
“Made it with shrimps topping, and it was superb. The instructions are easy to follow and the result is great.”
– Hadas
Okonomiyaki is a savory Japanese pancake that’s great for family dinners where everyone can get involved. My Osaka-style version is made with a homemade batter and your choice of meat and vegetables, topped with a tangy-sweet okonomiyaki sauce and creamy mayo.
It’s a fun street food experience you can recreate at home, letting everyone customize their pancake!
25. Cream Stew
Japanese cream stew is a popular yoshoku dish that kids love. My version combines tender chicken thighs with colorful vegetables in a rich, creamy sauce.
It’s a comforting, kid-approved meal that’s simple enough for weeknight dinners yet special enough for family gatherings.
26. Shoyu Ramen
“I was surprised how good the result was.”
– Ric
Shoyu ramen is a great way to introduce kids and adults to Japanese noodle soups. My version features a light, flavorful broth made from chicken and dashi, paired with homemade noodles and a classic soy sauce tare.
If you make ramen noodles from scratch, it will be an extra fun activity!
27. Yakisoba
“I have to say, everything about it was fantastic! For sure a new favorite in our home. Thank you for sharing this!”
– Ashley
Yakisoba is a popular Japanese stir-fried noodle dish that’s always a hit with kids. My version combines chewy wheat noodles with tender pork, crisp vegetables, and a homemade tangy-sweet sauce that mimics the authentic festival flavor. The unique twist? We’re making the iconic yakisoba sauce from scratch!
It’s a speedy, customizable dish that’s ideal for busy weeknight dinners or fun weekend lunches.
28. Purin
“I made it yesterday and could not put it down. So good, just perfect.”
– Michelle
Purin is a Japanese dessert that’s a big hit with kids. My version has a velvety custard-jelly topped with a glossy layer of caramel, which creates a perfect balance of creamy and sweet.
It’s a simple yet impressive treat that’s perfect for after-school snacks or family gatherings.
29. Yakiniku
“Great recipe. I never buy store sauces anymore. Much easier to make them. Thank you.”
– Garry (from Facebook)
Yakiniku sauce is the secret weapon for turning any grilled meat into a Japanese BBQ feast kids will love. My version balances soy sauce, sweetness, and a hint of spice for a flavor that rivals the best store-bought brands.
If you’re looking for a sauce that’ll wow your crowd and elevate simple grilled meats into an amazing family meal, this homemade yakiniku sauce recipe is a must-try.
30. Korokke
Korokke is a beloved Japanese snack that kids can’t resist. My version features creamy mashed potatoes and savory meat, wrapped in a golden, crispy breadcrumb coating.
We’re recreating the authentic flavor of old-school butcher shop croquettes, bringing a taste of nostalgia to your kitchen!
i love japanese foods and i am going to make the purin custard.
Thank you, John!