The Best Meat-Based Mezes to Try in Japan

When exploring Japanese cuisine, one must not overlook the delightful world of mezes, particularly those focused on meat. These small dishes are perfect for sharing and provide a gateway to experience the rich flavors and textures of Japanese culinary craftsmanship. Here are some of the best meat-based mezes to try in Japan.

1. Yakitori
Yakitori, skewered grilled chicken, is perhaps the most iconic meat meze in Japan. Each skewer contains pieces of chicken, including various parts like thigh, liver, and skin, seasoned with salt or tare sauce—a sweet soy-based glaze. The smoky flavor from the charcoal grilling elevates the taste, making it a popular choice in izakayas across the country.

2. Gyūniku no tataki
This dish features lightly seared, rare beef served thinly sliced, often accompanied by a tangy dipping sauce. Gyūniku no tataki highlights the quality of Japanese beef and is typically garnished with garlic, ponzu, or daikon radish, enhancing its refreshing taste. This meze is perfect for beef lovers seeking a delicate yet flavorful dish.

3. Sake Kasuboko
This unique meze consists of chicken marinated in sake kasu, the leftover lees from sake production. After marinating, the chicken is grilled or pan-fried, resulting in a tender and aromatic dish packed with umami flavors. Served with a side of pickles, sake kasuboko is a must-try for anyone eager to explore traditional Japanese flavors.

4. Goya Champuru
While goya (bitter melon) is the primary ingredient in this Okinawan stir-fry, the addition of pork or tofu makes it a hearty meze. The dish is flavored with miso or soy sauce, and the combination of bitter and savory tastes creates a quintessential Okinawan experience. Each bite provides a nutritious, flavorful, and distinctly Japanese taste.

5. Buta no Kakuni
Pork belly braised until it melts in your mouth, buta no kakuni is a savory delight often slow-cooked in soy sauce, sake, and sugar. This sweet and slightly salty dish is incredibly rich and is typically served with mustard or as a part of a larger spread of mezes.

6. Tsukune
These juicy chicken meatballs are often skewered and grilled, resembling yakitori but made primarily with ground chicken. Tsukune can be dipped in raw egg yolk for a richer taste or drizzled with a sweet soy glaze. They are versatile, making them a beloved addition to many meze platters.

7. Nikujaga
This comforting Japanese home-cooked dish features beef, potatoes, and onions simmered in soy sauce and mirin. While typically served as a main dish, its incredible flavors and heartwarming essence make it a viable meze option as well. Nikujaga showcases the beauty of simplicity in Japanese cuisine.

8. Yakiniku
This term literally means “grilled meat” and encompasses a variety of meats grilled on gridirons or griddles at the table. Diners can enjoy different cuts of beef, pork, or chicken served with tare or salt, allowing each person to customize their dining experience. This interactive meze is not only delicious but also a social event.

9. Shabu-shabu
A favorite among many, shabu-shabu consists of thinly sliced meats—commonly beef—cooked quickly in boiling broth and served with dipping sauces. While often a larger dish, the interactive and communal style of shabu-shabu makes it a fantastic addition to a meze spread, allowing everyone to enjoy the freshest flavors.

10. Kushi Katsu
Kushi katsu consists of skewered, breaded, and deep-fried meat or vegetables, often enjoyed with a tangy dipping sauce. This street food favorite sparked from Osaka is a crunchy, delicious meze that pairs well with beer, making it a great option for casual gatherings.

When visiting Japan, trying these meat-based mezes offers insight into the country's rich culinary culture. Each dish not only showcases the quality of ingredients but also the meticulous techniques that Japanese chefs employ to create unforgettable flavors. So next time you're in Japan, make sure to indulge in these delicious mezes for an authentic taste of the country.