Japan’s Best Meat-Based Sides to Complete Your Meal

Japan is renowned for its stunning culinary diversity and rich flavors, and when it comes to meat-based sides, there are numerous options that can elevate any meal. Whether you are dining in a traditional izakaya or enjoying a home-cooked feast, incorporating these meat-based sides can enhance your dining experience. Below are some of Japan’s best meat-based sides that complement various main dishes.

1. Goya Champuru
Goya Champuru is a stir-fry dish originating from Okinawa, featuring bitter melon (goya), tofu, pork, and sometimes other vegetables. The tender, savory pork perfectly balances the bitter notes of the goya, making it a fantastic complement to rice, and it’s an essential item in Okinawan cuisine.

2. Yakitori
Yakitori refers to skewered chicken, grilled to perfection over charcoal. There are various parts of the chicken used, including thigh, breast, skin, and liver. Served with a tare sauce or simply seasoned with salt, yakitori is a party favorite and pairs well with dipping sauces, perfectly rounding out any meal.

3. Niku Jyaga
This comforting beef and potato stew is a staple in many Japanese households. The dish typically includes thinly sliced beef simmered with potatoes, carrots, and onions in a sweet soy sauce broth. Niku Jyaga is hearty and filling, making it an ideal side dish to serve with rice and pickles.

4. Shabu Shabu
Shabu Shabu is a Japanese hot pot dish featuring thinly sliced beef boiled in a pot of broth. While it is traditionally served as a main course, you can also treat it as a side by offering a smaller portion with various dipping sauces like ponzu or sesame sauce. It’s a great way to incorporate protein into a lighter meal.

5. Tonkatsu
Tonkatsu is a breaded and deep-fried pork cutlet, usually served with shredded cabbage and a tangy tonkatsu sauce. This crispy delight not only complements rice and miso soup but can also be enjoyed in a sandwich (katsu sando). Its textures and flavors make it a favorite among many.

6. Nikujaga
Nikujaga features thinly sliced beef simmered with potatoes, carrots, and onions in a sweet soy sauce broth. This nostalgic dish is often considered comfort food, pairing wonderfully with steamed rice, and adding warmth to any meal.

7. Beef Tataki
This dish consists of lightly seared, thinly sliced beef served with garlic, ginger, and green onions. Beef tataki is typically enjoyed cold and can serve as a refreshing side dish. The savory flavors and tender texture make it a perfect complement to a variety of main dishes.

8. Yakimeshi (Fried Rice)
While not exclusively meat-based, yakimeshi often includes diced vegetables and meats like chicken, pork, or shrimp stir-fried with rice. This flavorful dish is a great way to use leftovers and can be served alongside grilled fish or any other main dish to create a balanced meal.

9. Sukiyaki
This one-pot dish consists of thinly sliced beef and a variety of vegetables simmered in a sweet soy sauce broth. Although known mainly as a main dish, serving it as a side with some dipping sauces can make for a delightful addition to your meal spread.

Incorporating these meat-based sides into your Japanese meals can not only enhance the flavors but also provide an enjoyable variety of textures and aromas. Each dish showcases the artistry and depth of Japanese cuisine, making your dining experience truly memorable. Whether you're hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a quiet dinner, these sides will undoubtedly elevate your next meal.