The Most Popular Mezes You Can Find in Japan

When traveling through Japan, one of the most delightful experiences is exploring the country's rich culinary traditions. Among the many delectable dishes, mezes hold a special place. These small, flavorful plates serve as perfect companions to drinks and are a staple in social dining. Let's delve into the most popular mezes you can find in Japan that are sure to tantalize your taste buds.

1. Edamame

Edamame, or young soybeans, is perhaps one of the most recognizable Japanese mezes. Often served steamed and lightly salted, these vibrant green pods provide a nutritious and flavorful start to any meal. They're perfect for sharing and enjoying with a chilled beer or sake.

2. Takoyaki

Originating from Osaka, takoyaki are savory balls filled with diced octopus, green onions, and tempura scraps. Cooked in a special molded pan, they are typically topped with takoyaki sauce, mayonnaise, bonito flakes, and aonori (seaweed flakes). This popular street food is a must-try meze that embodies the essence of Japanese snack culture.

3. Gyoza

These delicious dumplings, typically filled with a mixture of ground meat and vegetables, are either pan-fried or steamed. Served with a tangy soy sauce dip, gyoza makes for an excellent meze choice, perfect for enjoying with friends over drinks. Each bite is juicy and flavorful, with a satisfying crispy texture on the outside and a tender filling inside.

4. Yakitori

Yakitori consists of grilled chicken skewers marinated in a sweet and savory sauce known as tare or seasoned with salt. While chicken is the most common, you can find skewers made from different parts of the chicken and even vegetables. Yakitori is often enjoyed in izakayas (Japanese gastropubs) and pairs beautifully with beer or sake, making it a perfect meze option.

5. Agedashi Tofu

Agedashi tofu is a delightful dish featuring deep-fried silken tofu served in a savory dashi broth. Garnished with grated daikon, green onions, and bonito flakes, this dish offers a wonderful contrast of textures and flavors. Its light and somewhat crispy exterior combined with the soft interior makes it an irresistible meze.

6. Sunomono

Sunomono is a light and refreshing salad made from thinly sliced vegetables, usually cucumbers, marinated in a vinegar-based dressing. It often includes seafood like crab or shrimp, making it a versatile addition to your meze lineup. This dish provides a nice palate cleanser between heavier items and is commonly enjoyed during summer months.

7. Nikujaga

This savory stew is made with sliced beef, potatoes, carrots, and onions, simmered in a sweet soy sauce broth. Although nikujaga is often served as a main dish, it can also be enjoyed as a meze when served in smaller portions. Its comforting flavors and heartiness make it a popular choice among locals and tourists alike.

8. Sashimi

Sashimi, thinly sliced raw fish, is a quintessential part of Japanese cuisine. Common varieties include salmon, tuna, and mackerel, which are often accompanied by soy sauce, wasabi, and daikon radish. This exquisite meze is a fantastic way to experience the freshness of Japanese seafood.

9. Tsukemono

Tsukemono refers to a variety of Japanese pickles that add a crunchy, tangy contrast to meals. These pickles can range from pickled vegetables to fermented ingredients. Tsukemono often accompanies rice and other dishes, making them a delightful addition to any meze platter.

10. Onigiri

Onigiri, or rice balls, are a popular snack throughout Japan. Stuffed with various fillings such as umeboshi (pickled plum), salmon, or seaweed, these portable bites are perfect for sharing as a meze. Wrapped in nori (seaweed), onigiri offers convenience and flavor in one compact package.

Whether you are exploring a local izakaya or enjoying a meal at home, these popular mezes from Japan bring a taste of this vibrant culture to your dining experience. Savoring these dishes allows you to embrace the variety and richness of Japanese cuisine while enjoying the company of friends and family.