The Best Japanese Mezes You Can Make at Home

Japanese cuisine is renowned for its delicate flavors, fresh ingredients, and beautiful presentation. Among the various dishes you can explore, Japanese mezes stand out as delightful small plates perfect for sharing or enjoying as appetizers. Here are some of the best Japanese mezes you can easily make at home.

1. Edamame

Edamame are young soybeans, often served lightly salted. To prepare, simply boil or steam the pods for 5-7 minutes until tender. Sprinkle with sea salt and serve hot. This healthy snack is not only delicious but also packed with protein.

2. Gyoza

Gyoza, or Japanese dumplings, are a classic meze that can be filled with ground meat, vegetables, or tofu. To make them, mix your chosen filling with soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. Fill gyoza wrappers and pan-fry them in a little oil until golden brown, then add water for steaming and cover until cooked through. Serve with a dipping sauce made of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.

3. Takoyaki

Takoyaki are savory octopus balls that make for a fun and interactive meze. You will need a takoyaki pan to create these. Prepare a batter with flour, dashi stock, and eggs, and pour it into the pan. Add diced octopus, green onions, and pickled ginger. Cook until golden brown and serve with takoyaki sauce, mayonnaise, and bonito flakes sprinkled on top.

4. Nasu Dengaku

Nasu Dengaku is a grilled eggplant dish topped with a sweet miso glaze. Cut the eggplants in half and score the flesh. Grill or broil until tender and then brush with a mixture of miso, sugar, and mirin. Return to the grill until the glaze caramelizes. This dish is rich in umami and a great vegetarian option.

5. Agedashi Tofu

Agedashi Tofu is a simple yet elegant meze featuring deep-fried tofu served in a savory dashi broth. Cut firm tofu into cubes and dust with cornstarch before frying until golden. For the broth, combine dashi, soy sauce, and mirin. Serve the tofu in the broth topped with green onions and bonito flakes for added flavor.

6. Tofu Salad

A light and refreshing tofu salad makes a great addition to any meal. Combine cubed silken tofu with sliced cucumber, radishes, and carrots. Dress with a mix of soy sauce, sesame oil, and rice vinegar. Garnish with sesame seeds and fresh herbs for a burst of flavor.

7. Kappa Maki

Kappa Maki is a simple cucumber sushi roll perfect as a meze or snack. Prepare sushi rice seasoned with rice vinegar and sugar, then place it on a sheet of nori. Add thinly sliced cucumber and roll tightly. Cut into bite-sized pieces and serve with soy sauce.

8. Spinach Ohitashi

Ohitashi is a traditional spinach dish that is both nutritious and flavorful. Blanch fresh spinach in boiling water for one minute, then refresh it in cold water. Squeeze out excess moisture and combine with a dressing made of soy sauce and dashi stock. Garnish with bonito flakes before serving.

9. Miso Soup

While traditionally not seen as a meze, a small bowl of miso soup can serve as a warming starter. Simply dissolve miso paste in hot dashi broth and add cubed tofu, seaweed, and green onions. This comforting soup is great for any Japanese meal.

Creating Japanese mezes at home allows you to enjoy a variety of flavors and textures with family and friends. These recipes are not only easy to prepare but also bring a touch of Japanese cuisine to your dining table. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet night at home, these mezes will delight your taste buds.