Hiroshima Local Cuisine: Dishes, Restaurants & Recipes

Hiroshima Local Cuisine: Dishes, Restaurants & Recipes

Welcome to Hiroshima, a city in Japan renowned for its rich history, vibrant culture, and most importantly, its delicious local cuisine. In this guide, we'll take you on a culinary journey through Hiroshima, highlighting some of the must-try dishes, recommended restaurants, and even a recipe for you to recreate the flavors of Hiroshima at home.

Dishes

Hiroshima is known for its diverse culinary offerings, combining traditional Japanese flavors with local twists. Here are a few iconic dishes you should definitely try during your visit:

1. Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki

Okonomiyaki is a beloved Japanese pancake filled with various ingredients. In Hiroshima, however, they have their own unique version. Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki is built in layers, starting with a base of batter and cabbage, followed by layers of yakisoba noodles, pork, egg, and a variety of toppings. It's then topped with a sweet and savory sauce, mayonnaise, bonito flakes, and green onions. This hearty and flavorful dish is a must-try in Hiroshima.

2. Hiroshima-style Tsukemen

Tsukemen is a type of ramen where the noodles are served separately from the hot, savory broth. In Hiroshima, they have their own twist on this popular dish. Hiroshima-style Tsukemen features thick, chewy noodles dipped into a rich and flavorful broth made from pork bones and other secret ingredients. The noodles are then eaten with various toppings, such as sliced pork, green onions, and seaweed. This unique take on Tsukemen is sure to satisfy your noodle cravings.

3. Hiroshima-style Oysters

Hiroshima Bay is famous for its oysters, and sampling them is a must-do for seafood lovers. Hiroshima-style oysters are known for their plump and juicy texture, making them perfect for grilling or serving them deep-fried. Whether you try them on their own or incorporate them into other dishes like sushi or hot pots, Hiroshima oysters are a true delicacy not to be missed.

Restaurants

Hiroshima has a plethora of excellent restaurants where you can indulge in the local cuisine. Here are a few renowned establishments that are worth a visit:

1. Okonomi-mura

This multi-story building in the heart of Hiroshima City is a paradise for Okonomiyaki lovers. Okonomi-mura houses around 25 different Okonomiyaki stalls, each offering their own unique variations of the dish. You can explore different styles, flavors, and toppings all under one roof. It's a lively and vibrant place that showcases the diversity of Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki.

2. Tsukemen Marutomo

If you're craving Hiroshima-style Tsukemen, look no further than Tsukemen Marutomo. This popular restaurant is known for its rich and flavorful broth, paired with perfectly cooked noodles. The menu offers various toppings and condiments to customize your Tsukemen to your liking. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff make it a great place to savor this unique dish.

3. Jumbo Oyster

For a truly unforgettable oyster experience, head to Jumbo Oyster. This seafood restaurant specializes in Hiroshima-style oysters, serving them grilled, fried, in sushi, and more. The oysters are fresh, plump, and bursting with flavor. Jumbo Oyster also offers a range of other seafood dishes, making it a fantastic destination for any seafood aficionado.

Recipe: Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki

Now, let's bring the flavors of Hiroshima to your kitchen with a simple recipe for Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki:

1. Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup dashi stock
• 2 cups shredded cabbage
• 4 strips of pork belly
• 2 servings of cooked yakisoba noodles
• 2 large eggs
• Okonomiyaki sauce
• Mayonnaise
• Bonito flakes
• Sliced green onions

1. Instructions:

• In a bowl, mix the flour and dashi stock until smooth.
• Heat a non-stick frying pan and pour half of the batter into a round shape.
• Place a quarter of the shredded cabbage on top of the batter.
• Add a strip of pork belly and let it cook until the bottom becomes crispy.
• Spread half of the yakisoba noodles over the cabbage and pork.
• Crack an egg on top and carefully flip the Okonomiyaki. Cook until the other side is golden brown.
• Slide the Okonomiyaki onto a plate and drizzle generous amounts of Okonomiyaki sauce and mayonnaise over it.
• Sprinkle bonito flakes and sliced green onions as the final touch.
• Repeat the process to make the second Okonomiyaki.
• Serve hot and enjoy!

Now that you have a taste of Hiroshima's local cuisine, it's time to plan your food adventure in this amazing city. Enjoy exploring the unique flavors and culinary delights that Hiroshima has to offer!