A Meat Lover’s Guide to Japanese Mezes

Japan is famous for its unique and diverse culinary landscape, and when it comes to mezes, or small dishes perfect for sharing, meat lovers are in for a treat. This guide explores the various meat-based mezes found in Japanese cuisine that are sure to satisfy your carnivorous cravings.

1. Yakitori

Yakitori, or grilled chicken skewers, is a quintessential Japanese dish that showcases the umami flavors of meat paired with a sweet soy-based glaze. These skewers can range from tender chicken breast to succulent thighs and even include chicken hearts and gizzards. Enjoy them with a sprinkle of salt or dipped in tare sauce for an authentic experience.

2. Gyoza

Gyoza are Japanese dumplings filled with minced meat, usually pork, mixed with vegetables such as cabbage and garlic. Often pan-fried to create a crispy bottom, these tasty morsels are served with a soy-based dipping sauce. They make for an excellent appetizer or snack, especially when shared among friends.

3. Nikujaga

Nikujaga is a comforting home-style dish made with thinly sliced beef, potatoes, carrots, and onions simmered in a sweet soy sauce. This hearty stew embodies warmth and tradition, making it a beloved meze among meat lovers. It’s perfect for enjoying on a chilly evening.

4. Tonkatsu

Tonkatsu is a popular Japanese dish of breaded and deep-fried pork cutlet, typically served with shredded cabbage and a rich tonkatsu sauce. The contrast of the crispy coating and juicy, tender meat creates a delightfully satisfying experience. This dish can be enjoyed on its own or as part of a larger meal with rice and miso soup.

5. Yakiniku

Yakiniku, meaning "grilled meat," refers to a style of cooking bite-sized pieces of meat, often beef, over a grill. Diners can choose from a variety of cuts, including ribeye, brisket, and tongue. Often served with dipping sauces like tare or salt, yakiniku is an interactive dining experience that allows meat lovers to cook their selections to perfection.

6. Sumo Niku

For those looking for an unusual yet flavorful experience, sumo niku (literally "sumo meat") is a meze featuring marbled beef cuts similar to those used in steamboat-style hot pots. This dish is typically cooked at the table, allowing diners to enjoy the rich flavors while sharing the cooking experience with others.

7. Kare Raisu

While not a traditional meze, Kare Raisu (Japanese curry rice) is a must-try for meat enthusiasts. Made with tender chunks of chicken, pork, or beef simmered in a rich, savory curry sauce and served over steaming rice, this dish provides a hearty and satisfying option for those who crave meat.

8. Kakuni

Kakuni is a Japanese braised pork belly dish that is cooked slowly until the meat is melt-in-your-mouth tender. The dish is typically seasoned with soy sauce, mirin, and sugar, giving it a sweet and savory flavor profile. Served hot, kakuni makes a delightful meze that pairs exceptionally well with rice or as part of a bento box.

9. Baked Salmon Roe

Known as ikura, these glistening salmon roe are often lightly marinated and served on beds of rice or as part of sushi dishes. When baked, they take on a smoky flavor that enhances their natural brininess, making them a chef’s favorite for meat-friendly mezes.

10. Shabu-Shabu Style

Shabu-shabu is a Japanese hot pot dish featuring thinly sliced beef quickly cooked in boiling broth. Each diner dips the slices into the flavorful broth, then into a dipping sauce, often ponzu or sesame sauce. This interactive and communal style of dining not only satisfies the meat lover's palate but also creates a fun and engaging meal experience.

Japanese mezes offer a wide array of options for meat enthusiasts, proving that this cuisine is not just about sushi and sashimi. Whether you enjoy grilled items, delectable dumplings, or hearty stews, the selection of meat-based dishes in Japanese culture is sure to delight your taste buds and leave you craving more. So gather your friends, share these delicious mezes, and experience the rich flavors of Japanese cuisine!