Interesting facts about Japanese cuisine that you didn't know

The Japanese diet is known for its balance and variety. This is considered to be one of the factors contributing to the high life expectancy in Japan. Let's consider several reasons why the diet of the inhabitants of this country is particularly useful. What are some interesting facts known about Japanese cuisine?

Interesting facts

What unusual things are eaten in Japan:

• Japanese cuisine is famous for its traditional sushi and sashimi. Sushi is rice cooked with raw fish vinegar and vegetables. Rolls are when these ingredients are wrapped in a roll in Nori seaweed. Sashimi is thinly sliced raw fish with soy sauce.
• In this country, it is customary to use flowers in dishes. Chrysanthemum and sakura add unique aromas and flavors.
• In some regions of Japan, eggs are cooked by placing them in hot springs (onsen). The temperature and cooking time affect the consistency of the egg white and yolk, creating a unique flavor and texture.
• In Japan, there is a tradition of hunting for mushrooms in the forest known as “matsutake”. These mushrooms are considered a delicacy and are often used in a variety of dishes, including soups and stews.
• Some restaurants in Japan use special black sea water (kuro-mizu) to cook dishes such as rice and soups. This gives the dishes a special flavor and color.
• Mochi, a traditional Japanese sweet, is a sticky rice cake, usually filled with adzuki (red beans).
• Sea urchin roe, known as Sanriku, is considered a delicacy in Japan. It is a soft and creamy treat, often served on sushi.
• Some restaurants in Japan offer dishes cooked in ovens made from the solidified lava of volcanoes.
• A traditional Japanese breakfast includes rice, soup, pickled vegetables, fish and egg dishes. This is different from Western breakfasts and emphasizes the importance of rice in Japanese cuisine.
• There are restaurants in Japan that use robots to prepare and deliver meals. This is a combination of tradition and modern technology in Japanese cuisine.

What Japanese cuisine is good for

What is often eaten in Japan:

• The diet includes a significant amount of fish and seafood rich in Omega-3 fatty acids. These substances have a positive effect on the cardiovascular system.
• Green tea, common in Japan, contains antioxidants that can help in protecting against free radicals and support overall health. Matcha, a powdered green tea, is used in tea ceremony, and iced sencha tea is popular in everyday life.
• Japanese people often consume fermented foods such as miso, natto, and kimchi. These foods contain beneficial bacteria that can support gut health and immunity.
• Soy products such as tofu and soy milk are often found in the Japanese diet. They are rich in protein, minerals and phytoestrogens, which can be beneficial for bone health and reducing the risk of certain diseases.
• Rice is the main source of carbohydrates in the Japanese diet. It is rich in nutrients and gives the body energy. There are more than 40000 varieties of rice in Japan. Each has its own unique flavor and texture.

Japanese people usually eat small portions of food, which helps them maintain a healthy weight and manage calorie intake. Food is digested and assimilated more fully. These aspects of diet, combined with an active lifestyle and other cultural habits, can contribute to a high life expectancy in Japan.