Appetizers & Sides– category –
Plant-based Japanese appetizers, side dishes, soups, and small plates.
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Appetizers & Sides
Vegan Nikujaga (Japanese Potato Stew)
Nikujaga is a classic Japanese comfort food made with potatoes, onions, and vegetables simmered in a savory soy sauce–based broth.Traditionally, it includes thinly sliced beef, but this vegan version uses fu (wheat gluten), a traditional... -
Appetizers & Sides
Natto-Stuffed Abura-age
This dish features abura-age (fried tofu pockets) stuffed with natto, a traditional Japanese fermented soybean dish known for its sticky texture and distinctive aroma. Natto is rich in plant-based protein, dietary fiber, and vitamin K2, ... -
Appetizers & Sides
Kinpira Gobo
Kinpira Gobo is a classic Japanese side dish made by stir-frying thinly sliced burdock root and carrot, then simmering them in a sweet and savory sauce of soy sauce, mirin, and sugar. The name “kinpira” refers to a cooking style that com... -
Appetizers & Sides
Konnyaku stir fry
Konnyaku is a chewy, low-calorie Japanese food made from the konjac root. In this stir fry, it’s cooked with sesame oil, soy sauce, mirin, a little sugar, and spicy doubanjiang for heat. Topped with sesame seeds and green onions, it’s a ... -
Appetizers & Sides
Konnyaku with Dengaku Miso Sauce.
Konnyaku is a traditional Japanese food made from the konjac root almost zero calories, yet full of flavor. Grilled until slightly crisp, then topped with a sweet-savory miso sauce, sesame seeds, and spicy Japanese mustard, it’s a health... -
Appetizers & Sides
Soy-Glazed Pumpkin with Sesame
This simple Japanese-style dish features tender pumpkin stir-fried in soy sauce and topped with nutty sesame seeds.The soy glaze brings out the natural sweetness of the pumpkin.It’s quick to make, comforting, and perfect as a side dish o... -
Appetizers & Sides
Kiriboshi Daikon Curry Salad
This curry-flavored salad made with kiriboshi daikon (dried daikon strips) is full of flavor and texture.The warming spices add a savory twist to this traditional Japanese ingredient.It’s quick, healthy, and made by simply soaking the da... -
Appetizers & Sides
Japanese-style fried spring rolls
These vegan spring rolls are crispy on the outside and packed with savory vegetables inside.Made Japanese-style, they often include ingredients like cabbage, carrots, mushrooms, and vermicelli.Each bite is golden, crunchy, and full of um... -
Appetizers & Sides
Simmered daikon
Simmered daikon is a cozy, soul-soothing Japanese dish where simple ingredients shine.Slow-cooked in a flavorful broth, each bite bursts with gentle umami and warmth.Perfect for chilly days, but just as delicious when served chilled in w... -
Appetizers & Sides
Konbu Dashi
Forget store-bought packets—homemade kombu dashi offers a delicate, deep umami you can’t replicate.It’s a Japanese cooking essential that brings out the natural flavor of your ingredients.The cold brew method (soaking kombu in water) cre...
