Homey Japanese food, so much more than sushi, sashimi and ramen!

When people think of Japanese food, they often envision sushi and ramen. While these dishes are of course popular in Japan, they are not necessarily the everyday fare that Japanese people consume at home. In fact, nimono (煮物), or simmered dishes, are a staple of home cooking in Japan.

Nimono encompasses a wide variety of dishes that are simmered in a seasoned broth. These can include vegetables, meat, seafood, and tofu, and are often flavored with soy sauce, mirin, and dashi. Nimono dishes are comforting, nourishing, and perfect for the colder months (although we eat them year-round!). They are also relatively simple to prepare, making them a go-to choice for busy households.

One popular nimono dish is nikujaga, which translates to "meat and potatoes." This hearty stew typically consists of thinly sliced beef, potatoes, onions, and carrots simmered in a sweet and savory broth. It is often served with a side of steamed rice and pickles, making for a well-balanced and satisfying meal.

In the photo below you can see how we most often eat our nimono. My husband cooks the nimono (usually with renkon/lotus root, gobō/burdock, bamboo shoots, carrots, onions and taro). This time he used clams instead of the more usual pork so he added a side dish of grilled meat. I make the cucumber pickles ahead of time (the umeboshi are self bought 😂 ) and the rice cooker takes care of the genmai (brown rice, the healthier choice)!

So, to eat homey Japanese food you don't have to go out and spend a lot of money. With a few choice ingredients and some online inspiration you can make this yummie food yourself even if you don't live in Japan!

Check out this website for easy Japanese recipe ideas (especially if you live abroad): https://www.justonecookbook.com/