Participating in the Nanostructured Materials: Synthesis, Modeling, and Energy & Biomedical Applications Study Tour in Tokyo provides students with easy access to some of the most incredible Japanese food. From world-famous meals like sushi to lesser-known street snacks, you'll be able to experience the city via your palate and learn what makes Japanese cuisine so special.
Here are a few foods you should not miss when spending a few weeks in this wonderful nation.
Sushi
Sushi is a popular Japanese dish served with fresh fish on top of vinegared rice. It highlights the superior quality of Japanese seafood. Despite its apparent simplicity, sushi requires years of training to become an acknowledged chef. Sushi comes in various ways, including conventional nigiri and creative maki rolls. It is more than just a meal; it is an art form honed over generations.
Ramen
Ramen is a popular Japanese soup made of noodles and various toppings. Shoyu (soy), shio (salt), miso (fermented soybean), and tonkatsu (a broth made from pig bone), to mention a few. The toppings for each variety of ramen may vary. Among the most beloved toppings are chasu slices, negi, nori, menma, narutomaki, seasoned runny egg, and menma, braised bamboo shoots. Ramen is a fantastic comfort dish that can be eaten at any time of day and year.
Yakitori
The term "yakitori" refers to skewered chicken barbecued over charcoal. Different sections of the bird are utilized, each with a distinct taste. The most prevalent slices are "momo" (thigh) and "skin," which are often served with beer at informal izakayas. This dish has a long history of popularity among Japanese people and is excellent for both informal dining and street food.
Monjayaki
Monjayaki, a pan-fried batter or savory pancake akin to a crepe, is Tokyo's response to Hiroshima and Osaka's classic meal, okonomiyaki. Even when cooked, monjayaki keeps a little runny appearance similar to melted cheese, yet the delightful mixture tastes better than it seems. The dish became famous in the 1980s, inspiring restaurants to create menus centered on this delicacy.
Unagi
Unagi (freshwater eel) is a dish that cooks must master after years of practice. Because of its high vitamin content, unagi is a summertime favorite for those who suffer from heat exhaustion. Since the delicate grilling procedure takes time, top restaurant cooks often prepare eel only after receiving an order—so plan your visit accordingly.
Japanese Curry Rice
Japanese curry rice, Kareraisu, and Omurice are popular comfort foods in many Japanese families. Japanese curry is far less hot than curry from Thailand or India. As the name indicates, it is often served with rice but is also available with thick udon noodles and a topping such as chicken katsu, beef, or potato croquette.
Takoyaki
Takoyaki is one of the most popular street foods in Japan. Grilled on a pan with hemispherical holes to aid form, this snack is produced with a batter based on wheat flour and contains chopped-up juicy octopus tentacles, ginger, and green onion. When finished, it's the same size as a ball, served with Takoyaki sauce and Japanese mayo, and topped with crunchy bonito flakes.
Are you ready to treat your tummy to some of Asia's most fabulous cuisine? Schedule a consultation with an SAF counselor to learn about the program choices that best fit your interests.
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