• Read more about Kikkoman Corporation: What You Need To Know

Kikkoman is a major food company from Japan. It largely focuses on the production of seasoning products and soy sauce. The company also has interests in beverages, sake juice, and other flavoring products. Kikkoman has ventured into restaurant management services and pharmaceuticals as well.

It's multinational corporation that has operations in seven countries. They include Japan where it’s based, the United States, Canada, China, Taiwan, the Netherlands, and Singapore. Despite this, much of the production is concentrated in the Netherlands.

Kikkoman established its European headquarters in the Netherlands back in 1997. But instead of setting up the HQ in a large city or urban area, the company decided to go for Sappemeer, a small village located in the city of Groningen.

This facility has become one of the most important centers in the production of Kikkoman’s soy sauce. It’s estimated that the facility produces up to 400 million liters of soy sauce each year. The Kikkoman brand has a lot of recognition too.

As a matter of fact, Kikkoman still remains one of the most popular soy sauce brands in the US and Japan. The company also has a lot of share in the soy sauce market in countries like Canada, Netherlands, and most of Europe.

Kikkoman: Founding and Growth

Kikkoman was founded in 1917. Based in Noda, Japan, the company started off as a family-owned business and has remained the same for over a century. Although Kikkoman has different types of products, its soy sauce is probably one of the most popular ones.

What really makes Kikkoman stand out is the fact that its soy sauce is naturally brewed. It is made from organic products too, making it a healthy food seasoning product for the global market. The company has also ventured into other products and services. In 2014, Kikkoman had revenues of over $3.3 billion. The company has employed over 5,600 people globally.

How Does Kikkoman Work?

Kikkoman has done a very good job building a global brand in the soy sauce market. But this hasn’t been easy. One of the things the company does is to dedicate itself towards the production of quality products. Kikkoman has invested heavily in research and development. It has put together a team of committed and talented specialists that works together under the company’s brand to deliver value to customers.

Kikkoman notes that its biggest goal is to fill the world with “joys of food.” This promise and mission have been reflected in its operations over the years. The company has also developed a strong quality and safety support structure.

It’s not just about producing the tastiest soy sauce. It’s also about producing quality and safe products using natural and organic ingredients. Every single product is tested through a rigorous process to ensure it hits the market in perfect condition.

Kikkoman is one of the giants of the Japanese food industry. This century-old company has found success in many countries and continues to deliver joy through food.

• Read more about Gyoza: A Popular Japanese Staple

Gyozas are popular Japanese dumplings. Wrapped in a thin veil of dough, these dumplings are filled with ground meat and vegetables as well. Although the dish has become a staple in Japanese cuisine, it’s originally from China. 

There are different variations of the food. However, the difference is mostly in the way they are cooked. The contents of the ingredients remain almost the same. 

Typically, fillings used for Gyoza will include a serving of ground pork, green onions, cabbage, nira chives, garlic, ginger, some soy sauce, and sesame oil. However, most Gyoza restaurants and shops in Japan are very creative in the way they prepare the dish. 

It’s therefore not uncommon to find differed fillings used to prepare it.

A Brief History

As we have already hinted, Gyoza traditionally originates from China. The Gyoza is a direct descendant of Jiaozi, a popular Chinese dumpling that has been part of Chinese cuisine for over 2,000 years. 

According to Chinese folklore, Jiaozi was invented by Zhang Zhongjing, the same person also credited with pioneering most Chinese herbal medicines. 

When Jiaozi made it to the shores of Jaapn, it wasn’t an instant hit. Since it was a foreign-based food, it took time before people could start appreciating its distinct taste. As the Japanese made changes to this dish and how it’s made to suit their taste buds, it evolved from a traditional Chinese delicacy to become more authentically Japanese. 

It was then named Gyoza and ever since it remains one of the most savored dishes in Japanese cuisine.

Types of Gyoza 

There are three main variations of Gyoza. The variations are based on how each of them is made. 

Here’s a simple breakdown of these different dishes:    

Sui Gyoza 
Sui Gyoza is a boiled version of the dish. It’s much less common compared to the other two variations but it’s mostly served with a very light broth. Sui Gyoza is also seen as relatively closer to Jiaozi than the other two.

Yaki Gyoza 
Yaki is a pan-fried version of Gyoza and perhaps the most common variation of the dish. This version is fried on a hot skillet. Once the dumplings are crisp, a mixture of cornstarch and water is poured upon them. 

The Gyoza is then covered for a few minutes before it’s served. Yaki Gyoza is often juicier and softer. However, you will also notice that they have a crisp bottom, one not touched by the cornstarch and water mixture. 

Age Gyoza 
Age Gyoza is a deep-fried version. It’s often crisp and light brown. Age Gyoza is not nearly as popular as Yaki but you will still find it served in most Chinese and Japanese restaurants in Japan.

Other Tidbit

A typical serving of Gyoza normally contains about six pieces. A dipping source will also be provided with the meal. Normally, the sauce is made using normal soy sauce and a dash of vinegar.

Gyoza is a renowned tasty dish in Japanese cuisine but it has an even richer history. Even for a foreigner, the taste of this dish will melt your heart and your mouth.
 

• Read more about Top 5 Things To Do And Eat In Ueno, Tokyo

Tokyo is one of the busiest and important cities in the world. This bustling ultra-modern Japanese capital is romanticized in storied history and remains one of the key commercial hubs in the Asian country.

Living and working in Tokyo can be exhilarating. The vibrant city is always awash with culture, commerce, art, and many other attractions.

But now and then, residents crave a little escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday city life. Well, you need not go far to get this relaxing release.
Ueno, a nature park located just close by offers the perfect getaway. This preserved district at the heart of the city is home to some of the finest cultural sites in Japan.

In this post, we give you a list of five things to do or eat the next time you visit the Ueno.

1. Visit the Tokyo National Museum

Ueno gives you the opportunity to get acquainted with Japanese history thanks to the Tokyo National Museum located nearby. This is, in fact, the largest, and one of the oldest museums in the entire country. It’s also awash with historical artifacts and other historically significant displays.
The Tokyo National Park is home to over 110,000 artifacts. It’s rich in cultural and historical significance and it costs just 1,000 Yen to enjoy its majestic splendor.

2. Take a Leisurely Walk around the Park

Escaping the madness of a big city can sometimes bring unmatched relief and relaxation. For those of you who are always busy with everyday work, taking a break and enjoying the natural beauty of the Ueno Park is recommended.

Drawing comparisons to Central Park in New York, Ueno is a heaven for nature lovers, and those tired minds looking to detach from the grind of the city and enjoy finer offerings within its confines. The park presents the spectacle of beautiful cherry blossoms and unmatched greenery.
There are over 8,000 trees in there too providing a home to birds and another biodiversity. The scenic view of the greenery, coupled with the soothing fresh air, will melt your heart away.

3. Temple and Shrine Hopping

Ueno is also home to several Japanese traditional shrines and temples.
If you are feeling prayerful, or perhaps you want a sneak-peek into treasured Japanese religious culture, then hopping from temple to shrine should be fun. Each temple and shrine in this majestic park has its own history.
There is so much to learn. Some of the more notable temples and shrines to keep your eyes on include Kaneiji Temple, Toshogu Shrine, Kiyomizu Kannon etc.

4. Enjoy a Serving of Tsukemen

With all its splendid attractions, Ueno is also home to some tasty Japanese foods. One thing you must never miss is Tsukemen, a traditional Japanese dish that will arouse all your taste buds.

This ramen dish consists of noodles that are consumed after being dipped in a bowl of broth or soup.
Tsukemen was first introduced into the plate of Tokyo residents in the early 60s and ever since, it has found its way to their hearts, becoming one of the most popular native Tokyo dishes.

5. Try Takoyaki

In case you don’t have time to sit down in a restaurant and enjoy a meal, then snacking along the way can be a great idea.

After all, Ueno has so much to offer. The more you savor the sites, the better. Well, one snack you should definitely try is Takoyaki. These ball-shaped Japanese appetizers are cooked in a special molded pan using butter.

The balls are then topped with Takoyaki sauce to deliver that authentic taste of Japanese culinary prowess. There are many different variations of Takoyaki and you can find them all in Ueno.

Ueno is a great place for local Tokyo residents and tourists to relax and enjoy a different experience in one of the busiest cities in the world. There is just so much to do and eat in this park.

• Read more about 7 Best Vegetarian Foods To Try In Japan

It is sometimes difficult for vegetarians visiting Japan to find the right food for their dietary preferences. This is because fish seems to be a staple in Japan and can be found in everything including ingredients used in making the “vegetarian” miso soup.

There are even many stores and bakeries selling food with misleading labels such as vegetarian pizzas and sandwiches that actually contain meat. It is therefore important to do a little research when in Japan to identify real vegetarian dishes and places that serve these meat-free delicacies.

Here are some of the top vegetarian foods that you can try in Japan:

1. Nasu or the Eggplant with Other Vegetables

The eggplant, also known as Nasu in Japanese, is a favorite among many vegetarian Japanese. It can easily be found in most restaurants in Japan. The dish is usually served grilled or baked and accompanied with miso sauce made of sea salt, koji, and soybeans. Eggplant can be served together with other vegetables including a yam gelatin-like delicacy called Konyaku, cabbage leaves, pumpkin, and potatoes.

2. Mochi

You should definitely try mocha when visiting Japan. It is usually served as dense cakes or cut into little triangles and served with traditional delicacies such as Monjayaki and Okonomiyaki. Mochi is normally served grilled or fried depending on the meal it accompanies. It is a delicious vegetarian dish that keeps you warm on cooler days.

3. Kinpira

Kinpira is not really a single type of food but a popular cooking method in Japan that involves sautéing and simmering root veggies. Some of the popular foods cooked this way include carrots, lotus root, bamboo shoots, seaweed (Hijiki), burdock root (gobo), and tofu. The Kinpira vegetarian food is usually served with a soy or Mirin sauce.

4. Tofu

If you are one of those people who don’t like tofu, then you probably haven’t tried the Japanese version. It’s a gastronomic delight that will change the way you view tofu. The Japanese are known for making the best tofu in the world.

In Japan, tofu is served either fried or boiled and in numerous styles including Gomadofu or white sesame seeds tofu and spongy tofu locally known as Koyadofu. The Japanese version of this protein-rich bean curd is readily available in most restaurants.

5. Kushimono

Kushimono is actually skewered food served on sticks in Japan. Vegetarian Kushimono includes healthy ingredients such as lotus root, green pepper, okra, mushrooms, gingko nuts, and other vegetables. The fried version is known as Kushiage. You can also sample vegetable croquettes too while enjoying Kushimono.

6. Pickles or Tsukemono

Pickled vegetables are locally known as Tsukemono and are popularly served as a meal accompaniment. The pickles are normally soaked in brine and a bit salty. You can also get pickles soaked in vinegar and sugar to make a sweet mild-tasting vegetarian diet.

7. Seaweed and Kelp

This list of best Japanese vegetarian food cannot be complete without mentioning edible seaweed and kelp. There are many varieties of edible seaweed and kelp in Japan including Hijiki, Konbu, Wakame, Aonori, and Tokoroten just to mention a few. Seaweed and kelp are often used in making soups and sauces but can also be served as a dessert or on salads.

• Read more about 5 Things To Do And Eat In Inazawa Aichi, Japan

Inazawa is a bustling city in the Aichi Prefecture in Japan with a population of more than 136,000 people according to the May 2015 census. The city is full of breathtaking attractions and activities for the lone traveler or a family of sightseers. There’s plenty to do in Inazawa for both locals and visitors. The city has something new to explore at any time of the year. In this short guide, we will show you some of the best and most popular activities, tourist spots, and generally interesting things to do while visiting Inazawa, Aichi. You can also use the guide to plan your weekend in the city. 

Here are some of the best places to visit in Inazawa:

1.The Nagoya City Science Museum (NCSM)

Whether you are traveling as a couple, alone, or with kids, the Nagoya City Science Museum is definitely worth checking. One of the museum’s key features is the landmark design of its spherical planetarium. With a diameter of 35 meters, this is the biggest spherical shaped planetarium in the world with a realistic starry sky displayed on the planetarium’s screen and a room with aurora images. The Nagoya City Science museum is not just a tourist attraction but a learning facility too.

2. Aquatotto Gifu Eco Park: World Fresh Water Aquarium

This is the largest freshwater aquarium in Japan. It is a section of the famous Kiso River Water Park located in Gifu northeast of Nagoya. If you want to commune with nature in the most serene and wondrous environment, visit the Kiso River Water Park. There are a lot of exciting things to do with your family between the park and the aquarium. Admission to the park is free and it’s a great place to spend an entire day with the family.

3. The Tsuruma Park

If you are an outdoors fan, make a point of visiting the Tsuruma Park. It is a perfect blend of western and Japanese styles. The western section of the park features western-themed attractions including a fountain tower and rose garden while the eastern section is Japanese styled complete with a Calamus garden. The park attracts hundreds of visitors daily and is always a hive of activities and festivals. It is also a cool serene place to sit back and relax. 

4. Yusenji Temple

Yusenji Temple is nationally regarded as the places to say “thank you” or as the locals say, Arigato. The temple is believed to inspire happiness and rejuvenate your energy. The Japanese often come to the temple to offer dolls. It is an ancient temple with historic value to the Buddhists and definitely an interesting place for anyone interested in the Japanese culture and religion.

5. Sample the Japanese Cuisine

What’s a trip to Inazawa without tasting the unforgettable local cuisine? The region has a rich tradition of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Make sure to try the local cuisine in the city’s restaurants including popular eateries such as the Yashinoya Fushimidori, Nishiki, Kintoki Meieki, Monshushu, Kisoji Nishiki, and have a drink at the Monk bar which serves endless varieties of Japanese craft beers. There’s definitely something for everyone in Inazawa, Aichi.

• Read more about Bamboo Shoots - Nutritional Benefits And Serving

You’ve probably heard about bamboo shoots and how crisp, chewy, and delicious they are. Bamboo shoots, popularly known in China as Sun Jian, are edible freshly erupting culms of the bamboo plant. These delicious tender shoots are a popular delicacy in China, Japan, Taiwan, and other East and South-East Asian countries. There are even farms dedicated to growing and harvesting bamboo shoots in these regions.

The bamboo shoots start appearing 3 or 4 years after the bamboo plant is planted. The shoots arise from the root system of the plant and are eaten as a nutritious vegetable. The shoots are a special Spring delicacy in Japan, where they go by the name of “Takenoko.” The finely sliced Takenoko shoots are usually added to stir-fries, salads, and even rice to create a serving of “Takenoko Gohan.”

There are many ways of cooking Takenoko. It can simply be boiled, deep-fried, baked, or fried. Most people even eat fresh bamboo shoots raw. It has a light taste and it’s quite easy to eat. The bamboo shoot has a crunchy texture and a mild flavor.

Health and Nutrition Benefits of Bamboo Shoots

Bamboo shoots have numerous health and nutrition benefits. For instance, they are extremely low in calories with just 27 calories in 100 grams of the shoots.

Other health and nutrition benefits of the Takenoko shoot include the following:

• The heart of the shoot is rich in soluble and non-soluble dietary fiber which protects digestive organs from the harsh effects of toxic compounds in the food we eat. Eating bamboo shoots helps to prevent and control constipation and can significantly reduce the risk of colon-rectal cancer.
• The shoot has high contents of the B-complex vitamins including riboflavin, thiamin, niacin, and pantothenic acid which enhance your metabolic functions.
• Bamboo contains essential minerals such as manganese, calcium, copper, phosphorus, and iron. Manganese is important in the body as an antioxidant, copper helps in the production of red blood cells while iron is needed in the formation of red blood cells and in the process of cellular respiration.
• Bamboo shoots are also rich in potassium, which is an essential part of cell and body fluids. Potassium helps control blood pressure and heart rate by controlling the effects of sodium in the body. 100 grams of bamboo shoots has 533mg of potassium which is equal to 11% of a healthy person’s daily requirement of potassium. 

Preparation and Serving of Bamboo Shoots

Preparation of raw bamboo shoots bought at the market starts with peeling the tough outer sheaths and then detoxifying the inner meat to eliminate bitter compounds. You can easily peel the bamboo shoot by cutting it lengthwise in two halves and then peel the outer leaves. Start peeling from the base and work upwards towards the tip. After peeling dice the shoots to your preferred size and dip them in cold water so they don’t turn brown.

Boil the cubes in water to detoxify them. The shoots have a Cyanogenic Glycoside known as Taxiphyllin which is usually removed by boiling the shoots for 20 to 25 minutes. There are many ways to cook and serve bamboo shoots. They can be stir-fried, sautéed, or even mixed with beans, vegetables, or seafood. Tender shoots can be used in soups and salads or eaten with rice and noodles(variety). There are endless ways to enjoy these nutritious bamboo shoots.

• Read more about What Is Mugicha (barley Tea) And What Are Its Benefits

Made from roasted barley and consumed as a calming tea, Mugicha can be consumed as a hot or cold beverage depending on your preferences. Barley is a healthy grain that’s not only free from caffeine, but is packed with beneficial vitamins and minerals. In fact, researchers at the Colorado State University Extension state that Mugicha can contribute to lowering cholesterol levels, aid in weight loss and even prevent or treat diabetes.

However, it’s worth noting that many of the touted health benefits of Mugicha are based on anecdotal evidence and there isn’t enough scientific data to confirm its efficacy. That’s why it’s recommended to always consult with a physician before trying Mugicha or any other dietary supplement.

Features Antibacterial Properties

In 2006, the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry released an article which stated that a beverage called barley coffee had the ability to prevent tooth cavities. This special caffeinated beverage is made by roasting Mugicha or other forms of barley. Apparently, barley prevents the spread of bacterium Streptococcus mutans. But adding sugar to this beverage may neutralize this positive effect.

Could Help Prevent Cancer

The National Barley Foods Council states that barley is a rich source of vitamins A, C and E, as well as the trace mineral selenium. These four antioxidants are great at eliminating free radicals, which are disease-causing molecules. As such, barley is currently being researched as a possible cure or treatment for cancer, although a consensus hasn’t been reached yet on the role it plays exactly.

Controls Cholesterol

According to macrobiotics expert Michio Kushi, Mugicha has the ability to literally melt animal fat deposits in the body. This may have something to do with barley’s ability to naturally diminish the levels of fat and cholesterol present in the body.

How to Make Your Own Barley Tea

The easiest route starts with purchasing barley tea bags from a local health store or online retailer.
If you’re feeling up for it, you could always make the barley tea on your own. This involves roasting the barley on an oil-free pan or alternatively in a preheated oven. Roast the barley until it changes color into light brown.

Once roasted, you’ll prepare the barley tea as follows:
•    Pour two tablespoons of roasted barley to 8 cups of water in a medium pot and bring to the boil.
•    Reduce the heat and allow the mixture to simmer and cook for 15 to 20 minutes.
•    Remove the pot from heat and leave it to cool down.
•    When you’re ready, serve the barley cold by refrigerating it, or serve it hot by reheating it.
•    You may also spruce it up with spices like cardamom or sweetener like sugar or honey and some lemon.

Conclusion

Mugicha tea is one of the most popular dietary supplements available right now and it’s not hard to see why. It offers many health benefits, from aiding in weight loss, to regulating cholesterol, blood sugar levels and treating type 2 diabetes. It’s also a great source of dietary fiber, being sourced from grain and all, and the best part is that it’s very easy to make on your own!