[Nagoya] Japanese Homemade Dishes ～One Soup, Three Sides～

Nagoya, a bustling city in central Japan, is renowned for its traditional homemade dishes that embody the essence of Japanese cuisine. Known as "Ichiju Sansai," this harmonious meal features a comforting miso soup paired with three delightful side dishes, each showcasing the region’s unique culinary heritage. From the savory Miso Teriyaki Chicken to the delicate Japanese Rolled Omelet, these dishes tantalize the senses and offer a glimpse into the rich flavors that have been passed down through generations. Dive in and discover the art of authentic Nagoya-style home cooking.

Key Points

• The cooking class focuses on preparing a traditional Japanese "Ichiju Sansai" meal, including Miso Teriyaki Chicken, Dashi stock, Miso soup, Japanese Rolled Omelet, Spinach salad, and Onigiri.
• Participants have a hands-on experience learning the techniques for making Nagoya’s unique Miso Teriyaki Chicken, crafting the authentic Dashi stock, and perfecting the Japanese Rolled Omelet.
• The class highlights the cultural significance of the dishes, such as the importance of Dashi stock in miso soup and the tradition of Onigiri rice balls.
• Participants wear aprons and work at the kitchen station under the guidance of the instructor, Chinatsu, who demonstrates the traditional cooking methods.
• The menu and cooking techniques represent the complexity and nuances of traditional Japanese home cooking, providing a comprehensive learning experience for the participants.

Overview of the Cooking Class

The cooking class in Nagoya offers an opportunity to experience traditional Japanese home cooking.

It’s a 2-hour session where you’ll learn to make a nutritionally balanced "Ichiju Sansai" meal. The class costs $65.79 per person, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance. You can reserve now and pay later for flexibility.

The menu includes Miso Teriyaki Chicken, Dashi stock, Miso soup, Japanese Rolled Omelet, Spinach salad, and Onigiri. The class also provides insights into Nagoya’s food culture and history.

Located just a short walk from the train station, the class is convenient for participants.

Exploring the Cooking Experience

Participants begin the cooking class by donning aprons and gathering around the well-equipped kitchen station.

Under the guidance of the instructor, Chinatsu, they learn to prepare an authentic "Ichiju Sansai" meal. Chinatsu demonstrates the traditional techniques for making miso teriyaki chicken, dashi broth, and miso soup.

The class then tries their hand at rolling the perfect Japanese omelet and creating flavorful spinach salad with sesame sauce.

As they shape the onigiri rice balls, participants gain insight into the cultural significance of this staple dish.

The hands-on experience allows them to enjoy Nagoya’s rich culinary heritage.

Miso Teriyaki Chicken: A Nagoya Specialty

Although miso is a staple ingredient throughout Japan, Nagoya’s unique red miso, known as aka-miso, lends a distinct flavor to the city’s beloved Miso Teriyaki Chicken.

This iconic dish showcases the rich, umami-packed characteristics of aka-miso, which is fermented for a longer duration than other miso varieties. The chicken is simmered in a savory-sweet teriyaki sauce made with the robust aka-miso, resulting in a deeply flavorful and tender protein.

Served alongside a bowl of steaming white rice, this quintessential Nagoya meal embodies the comfort and complexity of traditional Japanese home cooking.

Crafting the Authentic Dashi Stock

• Kombu, a type of edible kelp

• Katsuobushi, or dried bonito flakes

• Water

Mastering the Art of Miso Soup

Miso soup is a cornerstone of traditional Japanese cuisine, and mastering its preparation is a crucial part of this cooking class. Participants will learn to craft an authentic dashi stock, the flavorful foundation of miso soup.

They’ll then blend in Nagoya’s famous aka-miso, or red miso, to create a rich, savory broth. The class covers essential techniques like bringing the soup to the right temperature without boiling, which can make the miso taste bitter.

Perfecting the Japanese Rolled Omelet

While the dashi stock and miso soup are the cornerstones of a traditional Japanese meal, the cooking class also delves into the art of crafting the perfect Japanese rolled omelet, or tamagoyaki.

Participants learn to use a specialized square pan to carefully layer thin sheets of egg, creating a beautifully-stacked and flavored omelet.

The keys to success include:

• Whisking the eggs thoroughly to incorporate air and achieve a delicate texture.
• Seasoning the eggs with dashi, mirin, and soy sauce for authentic flavor.
• Carefully rolling the omelet to maintain its shape and layers.
• Timing the cooking process to ensure each layer is cooked through.

Savoring the Spinach Salad With Sesame Sauce

The spinach salad with sesame sauce offers a refreshing counterpoint to the savory dishes of the traditional Japanese meal.

The tender spinach leaves are coated in a nutty, creamy sesame dressing, providing a textural balance to the richness of the miso-glazed chicken and fluffy egg rolls.

The sesame sauce, made from toasted sesame seeds, soy sauce, and a touch of sugar, creates a delightful blend of flavors – earthy, salty, and subtly sweet.

This simple yet satisfying salad cleanses the palate, preparing diners for the next flavorful bite.

It’s a vibrant and well-rounded addition to the Ichiju Sansai experience.

Shaping the Flavorful Onigiri (Rice Balls)

Next, participants dive into crafting flavorful onigiri, or Japanese rice balls. They learn the art of shaping the rice into compact, triangular forms using damp hands. The instructor demonstrates various fillings, from salty umami-rich natto (fermented soybeans) to savory chicken karaage.

• Participants knead the warm, short-grain rice, feeling the satisfying texture in their palms.

• They tuck in the fillings, sealing the rice around them to create self-contained bites.

• Sprinklings of sesame seeds or a dusting of nori (dried seaweed) add extra flavor and visual appeal.

• The onigiri-making culminates in a platter of handheld, portable delights to enjoy.

Things To Know

Can I Request a Vegetarian or Gluten-Free Menu Option?

Yes, you can request a vegetarian or gluten-free menu option for this cooking class. The instructor is happy to accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice. Just let them know when you book your reservation.

Is the Cooking Class Suitable for Beginners or Experienced Cooks?

The cooking class is suitable for both beginners and experienced cooks. The instructor provides clear instructions and cultural insights, making it accessible for those new to Japanese cuisine while still being engaging for those with more experience.

Are Kitchen Aprons and Utensils Provided During the Class?

Yes, all necessary kitchen aprons and utensils are provided during the cooking class. The instructor ensures participants have access to the required equipment to comfortably prepare the traditional Japanese dishes on the menu.

Can I Purchase Any of the Ingredients or Cookware Used in the Class?

Participants can purchase some of the ingredients and cookware used in the class. The instructor will provide details on where to find specialty items like the square frying pan for the rolled omelet.

Do I Need to Speak Japanese to Participate in the Cooking Class?

No, you don’t need to speak Japanese to participate in the cooking class. The instructor provides instructions in English, making it accessible for English-speakers. The class focuses on teaching traditional Japanese home cooking in a hands-on, engaging way.

Sum Up

The Nagoya homemade dishes are a delightful representation of the region’s culinary heritage. The harmonious balance of flavors and textures in the one-soup, three-side meal creates a truly satisfying and authentic dining experience. From the savory miso teriyaki chicken to the expertly crafted dashi stock and miso soup, each component showcases the unique culinary traditions of Nagoya, making it a must-try for those seeking a taste of Japan’s rich cultural heritage.