Food is what makes you.
What we put into our body, or “our diet”, is one of the most important ways to take care of our body and soul.
At Mogami, we focus on the below diet principles rooted in the traditional Japanese diet.
This new blog series aims to help introduce a selection of traditional Japanese home-cooked recipes that can inspire your daily nourishment for your body.
Being among the top longevity nations, Japanese recipes will help provide you with a delicious and nutritious meal through an emphasis on fresh, balanced, seasonal and varied ingredients.
Traditional Japanese Dish: Soba
Soba, a traditional Japanese noodle made from buckwheat flour, is a staple in Japanese cuisine. It comes in various forms, including thin noodles, flat noodles, and even dried versions.
Commonly used in dishes such as zaru soba, tempura soba, and kake soba, it has a unique, nutty flavor and a firm texture. Soba is enjoyed both chilled and hot, making it versatile for different seasons. It can be served with dipping sauces, in broths, or as a component in salads and soups.
Soba Recipe: Spicy Pork Soba
This recipe introduces a flavorful twist on traditional soba by incorporating spicy pork for an added kick. This dish combines tender pork with savoury vegetables, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal, all served with refreshing soba noodles. The rich, dashi-based broth, enhanced with a touch of chilli oil, offers a well-balanced and protein-rich option that's both hearty and delicious.
Ingredients (2 servings)
Green onion: 40g
Shiitake mushroom: 1 piece
Komatsuna (Japanese mustard spinach): 50g
Pork (thinly sliced): 150g
Soba (dried): 200g
(A)
Tsuyu: 90ml
Water: 270ml
Chilli oil (Rayu): 1/2 teaspoon
Directions
Cut the green onion diagonally into 5mm slices.
Remove the stem from the shiitake mushroom and slice it thinly.
Cut the komatsuna into 3-4cm lengths.
Cut the pork into bite-sized pieces.
In a pot, add the ingredients from (A) and heat over medium heat.
Add the pork, green onion, shiitake, and komatsuna, and cook through. Serve in a bowl.
Cook the soba according to the instructions on the package. Rinse with cold water, drain, and place in a separate bowl.
Dip the soba from step 3 into the broth from step 2 as you eat. You can add more chilli oil if you like.
Photo credit & recipe inspiration: Kikkoman https://www.kikkoman.co.jp/homecook/search/recipe/00054335/
How does soba nourish you?
High in Complex Carbohydrates & Fiber
Soba noodles are a nutritious source of complex carbohydrates and dietary fibre, providing sustained energy and promoting digestive health. Made from buckwheat, they are lower in calories than many traditional wheat-based noodles and contain no gluten, making them an excellent option for those with gluten sensitivities.
Rich in Antioxidants & Minerals
Soba is packed with antioxidants and essential minerals like manganese, magnesium, and phosphorus. Buckwheat also contains rutin, a powerful antioxidant that supports cardiovascular health and helps reduce inflammation.
Versatile & Complementary
Soba is a versatile ingredient that complements a variety of foods. It pairs well with fresh vegetables, lean proteins such as tofu or grilled chicken, and light broths, fundamental to a balanced and nutritious meal. These versatile combinations ensure a diverse intake of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, contributing to overall well-being.
Why not try this simple Soba recipe for a nutritionally rich diet to nourish your body and soul?
いただきます itadakimasu
A mindful gratitude practice said before every meal
Stay tuned for more recipes and insights into the transformative power of whole foods through traditional Japanese cooking.
Let's make every meal a healthful delight! 🥢
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