Hiyashi Chūka: A summer love letter in a bowl

When the Japanese summer wraps the country in its humid embrace, there's one dish my husband always makes that feels like a gentle breeze through cicada-filled trees: Hiyashi Chūka. It's colorful, cooling, and comforting, like edible fireworks on Tanabata night.

Hiyashi Chūka (冷やし中華) literally means “chilled Chinese-style noodles,” though it’s a uniquely Japanese creation. Served cold with a rainbow of toppings and a tangy-sweet soy or sesame-based dressing, it’s the culinary equivalent of slipping into a yukata and heading to a summer matsuri.

The dish gained popularity in Japan during the early Shōwa era (1920s–30s), likely inspired by Chinese cold noodle dishes but adapted to suit Japanese tastes and seasonal rhythms. Today, it’s a staple in homes and restaurants across Japan from June to August.

It’s perfect for summer because:

• Cooling effect: The chilled noodles and crisp vegetables help regulate body temperature.

• Hydration: Cucumbers, tomatoes, and bean sprouts offer a hydrating crunch.

• Light yet satisfying: It’s filling without weighing you down, ideal for hot days when appetite wanes.

• Customizable: You can adjust toppings based on what’s fresh or what you love.

My husband’s Hiyashi Chūka creations range from delightfully simple to impressively elaborate, often using up leftovers in the most creative ways. It’s always a surprise to see what he comes up with! In the photo, you’ll spot pickled multicolor carrots and pulled pork alongside the classic trio of tomato, cucumber, and omelet. And let’s not forget the presentation: served in a charming nyan-nyan (cat) bowl with each ingredient carefully arranged, this humble dish becomes a visual and culinary treat.

To me, Hiyashi Chūka isn’t just a dish. It’s a seasonal ritual, a love language, and a reminder that even in the sweltering heat, there’s joy to be found in simplicity. Whether you’re in Tokyo or California, it’s a beautiful way to bring a taste of Japanese summer to your table!

Here’s a simple recipe for you:

Ingredients:

• 2 servings of chūkamen (Chinese-style egg noodles) > but you can also use ramen if you like!

• 1 egg, beaten and cooked into a thin omelet, sliced into strips

• 1/2 cucumber, julienned

• 1 tomato, sliced

• 2 slices of ham or cooked chicken, shredded

Sauce:

• 3 tbsp soy sauce

• 2 tbsp rice vinegar

• 1 tbsp sugar

• 1 tbsp sesame oil

• 1 tsp mustard (karashi) or a dab of wasabi (optional)

Instructions:

1. Boil the noodles according to package instructions. Rinse under cold water and drain well.

2. Prepare the toppings: slice, shred, and julienne as needed.

3. Mix the sauce ingredients until sugar dissolves.

4. Arrange noodles on a plate, artfully top with vegetables, egg, and meat.

5. Pour sauce over the top or serve on the side.

6. Enjoy immediately!