Japan gets its fair share of cold weather and even plenty of snow in the north during winter, so naturally the country has developed lots of dishes that are just right for frosty evenings cosied up at home. In this roundup, I’ll introduce a selection of Japanese winter dishes that are perfect for warming you up on those chilly nights.
1. Shabu Shabu
When it comes to winter in Japan, shabu shabu is the way to go. This communal hot pot dish features paper-thin beef and vegetables simmered in kombu broth. My version captures the authentic flavors with homemade dipping sauces.
A lot of people think shabu-shabu is too complicated to make at home, but that’s not true! I’ll show you how to put together the perfect spread, from choosing meats to making tasty dipping sauces.
2. Japanese Style Cabbage Rolls
Cabbage rolls, but make them Japanese. I’ve replaced the ground meat with some delicious pork belly slices. Each leaf is infused with a rich flavor from the dashi-soy broth.
It’s perfect for dinner parties or quiet evenings at home. Ideal for those craving a unique twist on a global classic.
3. Beef Sukiyaki Udon
Craving sukiyaki but short on time? The solution is sukiyaki udon. I’ve made this popular hot pot dish into a quick and easy noodle dish. You’ll get all the classic flavors—sweet, savory, umami—in every bite.
It’s great on those chilly nights when you’re in the mood for something hearty but quick. It’s perfect for busy home cooks who love bold, savory flavors.
4. Nagoya Style Ozoni Soup
Nagoya’s ozoni is a simple yet satisfying way to ring in the New Year. It’s a hearty broth made with chicken, fresh vegetables, and chewy mochi. My recipe brings the authentic taste of Nagoya to your kitchen.
This winter warmer is all about quality ingredients and keeping things simple. It’s a hearty bowl that pays tribute to Nagoya’s roots. This is great for anyone who likes subtle, well-balanced flavors in Japanese cooking.
5. Oden
Have you ever wondered why restaurant oden tastes so good? It’s all in the broth. My recipe is made from scratch, so you’ll get a lot more flavor than you would from a packet.
This hearty stew is the epitome of Japanese winter comfort food. It’s perfect for those who love to cook and want to recreate authentic Japanese flavors at home.
6. Tonjiru
Tonjiru, a hearty pork miso soup, is the perfect winter comfort food. This version takes the classic recipe to the next level with butter for extra richness and thick-cut pork belly that melts in your mouth.
I have great memories of this soup warming me up after a late-night marathon in junior high. It’s perfect for anyone craving a satisfying meal on a chilly day, with lots of root vegetables for a nutritious boost.
7. Buri Daikon
Buri Daikon is the perfect winter comfort food. This classic Japanese dish combines tender yellowtail with daikon radish in a savory soy-based broth.
If you’re a foodie, you’ll love this taste of regional Japanese cuisine that’s now enjoyed nationwide.
8. Kake Soba
Kake Soba is simplicity at its finest. Buckwheat noodles are nestled in a steaming dashi broth, providing a cozy treat on cold winter nights.
My 10-minute version is just as flavorful as it is fast. It’s ideal for those looking to experience the authentic flavors of Japanese New Year’s Eve traditions without spending hours in the kitchen.
9. Curry Udon
Curry udon is a hearty Japanese dish that combines thick wheat noodles with a rich, spicy curry broth.
I’ve put together a homemade recipe that captures the essence of this beloved dish without using a pre-made roux. You can customize it with your favorite proteins and vegetables, so it’s great for those looking for a hearty, flavorful meal on cold evenings.
10. Chicken Zosui
Have you ever had rice soup that was so good you couldn’t stop thinking about it? Let me introduce you to zosui. My recipe gives this classic a new twist with succulent chicken, crispy skin, and meaty mushrooms. It’s pure comfort food, Japanese-style.
It’s the perfect winter warmer. Each spoonful offers a great mix of textures and flavors. It’s ideal for anyone looking for a hearty, comforting meal on cold nights.
11. Sukiyaki
Have you ever thought about making restaurant-quality sukiyaki at home? Good news—you can now do just that. My recipe features tender beef, silky tofu, and crisp veggies in a rich warishita sauce.
It’s a great way to bring together friends and family. It’s ideal for anyone looking to add a little Japanese tradition to their table.
12. Miso Nikomi Udon
Miso Nikomi Udon packs a flavorful punch. The chewy udon noodles are mixed with meat and vegetables in a bold red miso soup. It’s comfort food, Aichi-style.
It’s a simple, one-pot recipe that tastes great and is easy to make.
13. Chanko Nabe
Chanko Nabe: where tradition and nutrition come together. I’ve put together a version of this sumo staple that home cooks can easily recreate. You can look forward to a light yet filling hot pot brimming with vegetables, tofu, and juicy chicken meatballs.
Perfect for those who believe in food as fuel, with a delicious cultural twist.
14. Motsunabe
Have you ever had a hot pot that really stuck with you? Let me introduce you to Motsunabe. My recipe takes humble offal and makes it into a meal you’ll want to crave.
It’s the perfect combination of comfort and adventure in one dish.
15. Nabeyaki Udon
When the weather gets cold, I turn to nabeyaki udon. This hearty, nourishing dish is quite different from your typical noodle soup.
My version is a tasty mix of juicy chicken thighs, crispy tempura shrimp, and fresh vegetables. It’s a one-pot wonder that’ll warm you from the inside out!
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