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Our Best Japanese Recipes

December 14, 2014
Photo: Becky Luigart-Stayner
Enjoy our healthy versions of traditional Japanese recipes along with modern takes on the classics.
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The Flavors of Japan

Photo: Johnny Autry
View Recipe: Miso Chicken

Noodle bowls and miso soup—what's not to love about Japanese cuisine? We've taken some of the region's most famous dishes and put a healthy spin on them. So indluge with a little guilt-free, Asian-fusion fare tonight. 

In Japan, miso sometimes glazes fish, but here it’s used as a marinade and a glaze for chicken. Along with sour rice vinegar, salty soy sauce, sweet honey, and spicy chile paste, the umami taste of white miso completely transforms plain pan-roasted chicken breasts into a dish of well-balanced flavors and aromas. 

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Miso Soup with Tofu

Photo: Oxmoor House
View Recipe: Miso Soup with Tofu

The Japanese often begin their day with a warm bowl of miso soup. But it's good anytime—especially if you're feeling sick. If you have the Japanese pantry staples miso, kombu (kelp), and katsuobushi (dried bonito flakes or tuna flakes) on hand, the soup is ready in less than 15 minutes. The original is full of savory, umami flavor but also high in sodium, so we've cut back a bit on the miso and bonito flakes.

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Udon-Beef Noodle Bowl

Photo: Oxmoor House
View Recipe: Udon-Beef Noodle Bowl

Move over chicken noodle soup—udon is the new bowl of comfort. Here’s a twist on Japanese-style chicken soup featuring miso, soy sauce, chile paste, porcini mushrooms and, of course, udon noodles. It’s the perfect soother on a chilly or rainy day.  

 

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Japanese-Style Daikon and Carrot Pickles

Photo: Becky Luigart-Stayner
View Recipe: Japanese-Style Daikon and Carrot Pickles

Lime-spiked vegetables work well as a relish with grilled tuna or salmon. Daikons are long, white, tubular Asian radishes with a pungent smell and a mild flavor. Look for them in gourmet markets and Asian groceries.

 

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Tsukune (Japanese Chicken Meatballs)

Photo: Iain Bagwell
View Recipe: Tsukune (Japanese Chicken Meatballs)

These meatballs make a terrific party snack. Look for flat skewers at Asian markets, or use two skewers for each group of meatballs so they'll turn easier.

 

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Japanese Beef and Noodles Big Bowl

Photo: Becky Luigart-Stayner
View Recipe: Japanese Beef and Noodles Big Bowl

Quick and easy to make, this Asian-inspired beef bowl is an ideal weeknight staple. 

 

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