Japan’s Meat-Based Dishes You Need to Try Before You Die

Japan is renowned for its culinary delights, and among these, meat-based dishes hold a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike. Each dish offers a unique taste of Japanese culture and tradition, making them essential experiences for any food lover. Here’s a look at some must-try meat-based dishes when you visit Japan.

1. Wagyu Beef

Considered a luxury delicacy, Wagyu beef is known for its rich marbling, tenderness, and unique flavor. Hailing from specific regions in Japan such as Kobe, Matsuzaka, and Omi, this beef is often enjoyed as steak or in dishes like shabu-shabu. Savoring Wagyu cooked at a teppanyaki restaurant offers not just a meal, but an unforgettable culinary experience.

2. Tonkatsu

This popular dish features a breaded and deep-fried pork cutlet, served with shredded cabbage and a rich, tangy sauce. It’s often accompanied by rice and miso soup. Tonkatsu is not only filling but also delightful in flavor and texture, making it a staple in Japanese cuisine.

3. Yakitori

Yakitori consists of skewered and grilled chicken, seasoned with either salt or a savory sauce known as tare. You can find different parts of the chicken being grilled, including thighs, breasts, and even liver. Recommended for a casual dining experience, yakitori is often enjoyed at izakayas (Japanese pubs) and pairs perfectly with a cold beer.

4. Gyudon

Gyudon, or beef bowl, is a comforting dish featuring sliced beef simmered in a sweet-salty sauce made from soy sauce, mirin, and sugar, served over a bowl of rice. Often garnished with pickled ginger and a raw egg, gyudon is a favorite for a quick and satisfying meal.

5. Sumo Chanko Nabe

This hearty hot pot is traditionally consumed by sumo wrestlers to increase weight and build strength. Chanko nabe is filled with various ingredients, including chicken, fish, vegetables, and tofu, simmered in a savory broth. The communal aspect of sharing a pot makes this dish a perfect option for groups.

6. Nikujaga

Nikujaga is a comforting home-cooked stew featuring thinly sliced beef, potatoes, and onions simmered in a sweet soy sauce broth. The combination of flavors is perfect for cold days and is often associated with family gatherings, making it a quintessential Japanese comfort food.

7. Yakiniku

Yakiniku means "grilled meat" in Japanese and generally refers to bite-sized meat and vegetables cooked on gridirons or griddles over a wood charcoals. Diners often grill their own meat at the table, making it a fun, interactive dining experience. There’s a variety of marinades and dipping sauces that elevate the flavor of this delightful meal.

8. Ramen with Chashu

While ramen itself is primarily known as a noodle dish, the addition of chashu—braised pork belly—elevates it to new heights. The tender, flavorful slices of chashu paired with rich broth and chewy noodles make for a truly satisfying bowl of ramen.

9. Tori Nabe

Tori nabe is a chicken hot pot that incorporates various vegetables and is slowly cooked to create a rich, flavorful broth. This dish not only warms you up but also highlights the natural flavors of the ingredients used.

10. Curry Rice with Meat

Japanese curry is unique in its sweetness and thickness and is often served with meat, typically chicken or pork. The comforting flavors are perfect for a quick lunch or dinner and are often seen as a beloved staple in many Japanese households.

From luxurious wagyu beef to comforting nikujaga, each meat-based dish in Japan tells a story and offers a taste of the nation's rich culinary heritage. Ensure to savor these dishes during your visit to truly experience Japan's gastronomy.