- Rice has been Japan’s most important crop. It’s fundamental importance to the country and its culture. The literal meaning of breakfast is “morning rice”.
- A major rice variety used in Japan is mochi rice. Cooked mochi rice is more sticky than conventional Japanese rice, and it is commonly cooked mochi rice with red beans or for pounding into rice cakes.
- Noodles often take the place of rice in a meal. They are featured in many soup dishes, or served chilled with a sauce for dipping.
- Bread is not native to Japan and is not considered traditional Japanese food.
There are many dishes that are considered part of Japan’s national cuisine today –
- Grilled and pan-fried dishes
- Stewed dishes
- Stir-fried dishes
- Steamed dishes
- Deep-fried dishes
- Soups
- Pickled, salted, and dressed foods