“Japanese Home Cooking,” authored by Chihiro Masui and Hanae Kaede with photography by Annabelle Schachmes, is an invaluable resource for anyone keen to explore the refined flavours of Japanese cuisine within the comfort of their own kitchen. This comprehensive guide demystifies the sophisticated techniques and unique ingredients that define Japan’s culinary landscape, making it accessible to both novices and seasoned cooks alike.

One of the standout features of this book is its clear, step-by-step photographic instructions. Each recipe is meticulously illustrated, ensuring that even the most intricate techniques, such as the traditional slicing of fish and vegetables, are easy to follow. From the essential task of cooking perfect rice to the artful presentation of a Japanese table, no detail is overlooked. This visual approach not only aids in understanding but also inspires confidence in replicating authentic Japanese dishes.

The book is thoughtfully divided into six sections, encompassing over 90 recipes that cater to everyday meals and special gourmet occasions. Readers can explore a diverse array of dishes, including starters like Cucumber and Wakame Sunomono and Prawns with Pickled Egg and Kimi-zu. For those who enjoy hearty bowls and soups, the Red Miso Soup with Clams Asa ri and Clear Soup Dumpling with Crab Wakame offer comforting options. Vegetarians and tofu enthusiasts will appreciate recipes such as Pumpkin in Chicken Broth Soboro and Sweet Daikon with Miso.

“Japanese Home Cooking” also delves into the essentials of Japanese frying and grilling with delectable recipes like Teriyaki Salmon, Breaded Shrimp Tonkatsu, and the ever-popular Tamago-yaki Omelette. For fans of rice and noodles, dishes such as Yakisoba Fried Noodles and Rice with Five Flavours provide satisfying and versatile meal options. The dessert section does not disappoint either, featuring delights like Soy Milk Crème Caramel and Ukishima (Floating Island).

A notable inclusion is the resource section, which assists readers in sourcing hard-to-find ingredients and suggests suitable substitutions where necessary. Additionally, the book offers insightful notes on the history of Japanese regional cooking and the influences of foreign cuisines, enriching the reader’s understanding of the cultural context behind each dish.

Overall, “Japanese Home Cooking” stands out as the ideal guide for those eager to embrace Japanese culinary traditions. Its combination of detailed instructions, beautiful photography, and cultural insights make it a treasured addition to any home cook’s library.

Product details

Publisher: Firefly Books Ltd (1 Dec. 2015)

Language: English

Hardback: 280 pages

ISBN-10: 1770856064

ISBN-13: 978-1770856066

Dimensions: 21.59 x 2.54 x 26.67 cm