Yakitori, literally “grilled bird,” is a dish of grilled chicken, and is serious business in Japan. Like other culinary specialties in Japan (think sushi, tempura, ramen), there are many restaurants that only serve yakitori. These yakitori joints are hyper-specialized, serving up every part of the …
There is something undeniably wonderful about eating a big platter of sushi out in the middle of nowhere. It just feels so delightfully out of place to set out a tray of sushi rolls in a place that is miles from any water, much less …
Soba noodles are a Japanese noodle made primarily from buckwheat flour. In parts of Japan, soba is the primary starch, and people often eat them several times a day. The noodles are nutty, slightly bitter, and delicious eaten both in hot soups and cold salads. The recipe that I’ve prepared here is a cold salad of soba noodles dressed with soy sauce and sesame oil, and tossed with cucumbers and scallions. It is the kind of meal that you can throw together in ten minutes and you will be happy to eat every night of the week. Continue reading Sesame Soba
Ahh, tempura, that classic Japanese dish that is somehow both deep-fried and light. It brings all of the joys of fried food without leaving one feeling like they need a nap afterward. How does one create such perfection? That light, amazing fry of tempura is …
We have a lot of new things going on around here. One that we’re really excited about is all of the new merch in our shop! Check it out and pick up a shirt or a mug or whatever strikes your fancy. All branded with …
Tres Leches Cake (pastel de tres leches) is an immensely popular dessert throughout Central and South America. The origin of the cake is a matter of debate, and while it definitely did not originate in Costa Rica (at least I haven’t heard anyone argue that), that is where I first ate it, so that’s the cuisine I am going to toss it in with. Continue reading Tres Leches Cake
Casado is not so much a dish as it is a meal. In Costa Rica lunch is typically the largest meal of the day, and the casado plate is a popular option. The origins are a bit cloudy, as they often are, but the word …
Olla de Carne, which translates to pot of beef, is Costa Rican comfort food at its finest. Slow-simmered beef and a wide variety of vegetables (traditionally whatever was abundant at the time) creates a stew which warms you to your core and feels so, so …
If you have ever set foot in Costa Rica, it is a safe bet that you have eaten gallo pinto. This dish of simply seasoned rice and beans was served at every Costa Rican breakfast table I ever sat at, and with good reason. Gallo pinto, which translates to spotted rooster, is a perfect way to start the morning: it is inexpensive, delicious, and hearty. Continue reading Gallo Pinto
Thai tea is one of those absolutely delicious things that few people realize is so easy to make at home. All you need to do is visit your local Asian grocer, or hop on the internet, and pick up a packet of Thai tea mix. …