The Top 10 Meat-Based Dishes You Can Only Try in Japan

Japan is renowned for its exquisite cuisine, and while sushi often steals the limelight, there is an array of mouth-watering meat-based dishes unique to the country. Here are the top 10 meat-based dishes you absolutely must try when visiting Japan.

1. Wagyu Beef

Wagyu beef is famous worldwide for its tenderness and rich flavor, thanks to its unique marbling. Available in various cuts, this beef is often served as steak, shabu-shabu (thinly sliced and cooked in hot broth), or as sushi. Regions like Kobe and Matsusaka are particularly famous for their high-quality Wagyu.

2. Yakitori

Yakitori refers to skewered chicken bits grilled over charcoal, often seasoned with salt or a savory tare sauce. Different parts of the chicken are used, including breast, thighs, and even offals, allowing you to experience a diverse range of flavors with each skewer.

3. Tonkatsu

Tonkatsu is a deep-fried pork cutlet coated in panko breadcrumbs. Typically served with shredded cabbage and a tangy tonkatsu sauce, this dish is crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

4. Gyudon

Gyudon, or beef bowl, is a hearty dish consisting of thinly sliced beef simmered with onions in a sweet soy sauce served over a bowl of rice. Quick, affordable, and delicious, gyudon is a popular choice for those looking for a comforting meal on the go.

5. Sumo Stew (Chanko Nabe)

Chanko nabe is a rich and hearty stew traditionally consumed by sumo wrestlers to gain weight. Made with various ingredients such as chicken, fish, tofu, and seasonal vegetables, this nutritious dish is enjoyed in many restaurants across Japan.

6. Yakiniku

Yakiniku translates to “grilled meat” and is a popular dining option in Japan. Diners order various cuts of meat such as beef, pork, and organ meats, which are prepared on a grill at the table. The combination of dipping sauces enhances the overall experience.

7. Nikujaga

Nikujaga is a comforting Japanese dish featuring sliced beef, potatoes, and onions simmered in sweet soy sauce. This homemade meal is often associated with family gatherings and is a staple in many Japanese households for its simplicity and rich flavor.

8. Horumon Yaki

Horumon yaki is a dish of grilled beef or pork offals, known for its robust flavor and tender texture when cooked properly. It is typically seasoned with salt or a savory sauce and served with a variety of dipping concoctions, perfect for adventurous eaters.

9. Katsu Don

Katsu don is a rice bowl topped with a crispy tonkatsu cutlet, onions, and egg, all simmered together with a flavorful broth. This fusion of textures and flavors makes katsu don a beloved dish that delivers comfort in every bite.

10. Genghis Khan (Jingisukan)

Originating from Hokkaido, Jingisukan features grilled mutton or lamb cooked on a convex grill. The meat is marinated in a special sauce and typically served with an assortment of vegetables. This dish is often enjoyed in a convivial setting, making it a perfect meal for sharing.

When traveling in Japan, be sure to sample these unique meat-based dishes that showcase the country’s culinary richness. Each dish tells a story and reflects the cultural heritage of Japan, making your gastronomic journey truly unforgettable.