Okazu

Japanese side dish cuisine

Okazu

A variety of okazu dishes

Okazu (___) refers to the side dishes that accompany the staple food in a traditional Japanese meal, typically rice. These dishes are an essential part of the meal, providing flavor, nutrition, and variety. Okazu can include a wide range of foods, such as vegetables, fish, meat, and tofu, prepared in various ways including grilling, boiling, steaming, or frying.

Types of Okazu

Okazu can be broadly categorized into several types based on their ingredients and preparation methods:

Vegetable Okazu

Vegetable okazu are made primarily from seasonal vegetables. Common preparations include:

• Nimono - vegetables simmered in a seasoned broth.
• Sunomono - vinegared salads.
• Aemono - vegetables dressed with sauces such as sesame or miso.

Fish and Seafood Okazu

Fish and seafood are staple ingredients in Japanese cuisine and are often used in okazu. Popular dishes include:

• Sashimi - raw fish served with soy sauce and wasabi.
• Yakizakana - grilled fish.
• Tempura - battered and deep-fried seafood.

Meat Okazu

While less common than fish, meat is also used in okazu. Examples include:

• Karaage - Japanese-style fried chicken.
• Nikujaga - a stew of meat and potatoes.
• Tonkatsu - breaded and deep-fried pork cutlet.

Tofu and Soy-based Okazu

Tofu and other soy products are popular in okazu for their versatility and nutritional value:

• Hiyayakko - chilled tofu with toppings such as green onions and ginger.
• Agedashi tofu - deep-fried tofu in a dashi-based sauce.
• Yudofu - tofu simmered in a light broth.

Cultural Significance

Okazu plays a significant role in Japanese dining culture. It complements the staple food, usually rice, and provides a balance of flavors and nutrients. The variety of okazu reflects the seasonality and regional diversity of Japanese cuisine. In a traditional Japanese meal, okazu is served in small portions, allowing diners to enjoy a wide range of tastes and textures.

Related pages

• Japanese cuisine
• Washoku
• Kaiseki
• Bento

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