Japan · National Dish Recipes

Japan

Sushi is most often named the national dish of Japan — vinegared rice and pristine fish shaped with quiet precision. Our Sushi recipe shows how to make it at home, one of 170 authentic Japanese recipes waiting below.

The Most Famous Japanese Dishes

  1. Sushi

    Discover Sushi, Japan's most celebrated culinary export and its much-loved national dish! Built around seasoned rice, fresh fish and crisp vegetables, it is a beautifully balanced …

  2. Tamagoyaki

    Discover Tamagoyaki, the delicately sweet rolled omelette that sits at the very heart of the Japanese kitchen! Far more than a simple breakfast egg, this golden, layered roll is …

  3. Mochi

    Discover Mochi, the chewy Japanese rice cake that has charmed dessert lovers around the world! Made from nothing more than steamed and pounded glutinous rice, it has a wonderfully …

  4. Ramen

    Few dishes say comfort quite like a steaming bowl of Ramen. This beloved Japanese noodle soup brings together springy noodles, a deeply savoury broth and a colourful array of …

  5. Takoyaki

    Discover Takoyaki, one of Japan's most irresistible street foods! These little golden balls hide a piece of tender octopus inside a soft, savoury batter, all crisped up in a …

  6. Katsu Curry

    Discover Katsu Curry, one of Japan's most comforting plates! This crowd-pleaser brings together a crisp, golden cutlet, a glossy and gently spiced curry sauce and a mound of …

  7. Gyoza

    Say hello to Gyoza, Japan's irresistible little dumplings with a crisp, golden base and a juicy, savoury filling tucked inside. Each delicate parcel wraps tender meat and finely …

  8. Nattō

    Meet Nattō, one of Japan's most distinctive national dishes — fermented soybeans with a deeply savoury flavour and that famously sticky, stringy texture. Loved at the Japanese …

  9. Karaage

    Discover Karaage, one of Japan's most irresistible bites! This classic of Japanese cooking turns humble chicken into morsels that are wonderfully crisp on the outside and juicy …

  10. Okonomiyaki

    Discover Okonomiyaki, one of Japan's most beloved savoury treats! Affectionately nicknamed the "Japanese pizza", this hearty pancake brings together a simple batter and a generous …

Japan

National Dish Japan: Ramen (Recipe)

Few dishes say comfort quite like a steaming bowl of Ramen. This beloved Japanese noodle soup brings together springy noodles, a …

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Japan

National Dish Japan: Onigiri (Recipe)

Say hello to Onigiri, one of Japan’s most beloved snacks! These neat little rice balls are simplicity itself: lightly salted …

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Japan

National Dish Japan: Oden (Recipe)

Warm up a cold evening with Oden, one of Japan’s most comforting winter dishes! This gentle, simmered hot pot brings …

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What is the national dish of Japan?

Japan has no single official national dish, but sushi is the one most often given that title — vinegared rice and pristine fish shaped with quiet precision. A step-by-step recipe is on this page, alongside 169 more authentic Japanese recipes.

What food is Japan famous for?

Beyond sushi, Japan is famous for dishes like Tamagoyaki, Mochi and Ramen. This page collects 170 authentic Japanese recipes, from everyday classics to festive specialities.