• Health - vegan food

    Embracing a Vegan Lifestyle with Mushrooms

    April 22, 2024 - By 

    Health and Nutrition Benefits

    Mushrooms are a cornerstone of vegan cuisine, known for their rich nutritional content. Despite being low in calories, mushrooms are packed with vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin D, B vitamins, iron, and antioxidants. These nutrients are often difficult to obtain from a vegan diet alone, making mushrooms a valuable addition for maintaining nutritional balance.

    Umami Flavor and Culinary Applications

    The umami taste in mushrooms, primarily due to their high glutamic acid content, greatly enhances the depth of flavor in vegan dishes. Using varieties like shiitake and maitake in broths or as soup bases can enrich the overall flavor profile, providing a satisfying culinary experience without relying on meat or fish.

    Recipe Suggestions

    • Mushroom and Vegetable Stir-fry: Utilize oyster or shimeji mushrooms stir-fried with a colorful array of vegetables, enhanced with garlic and ginger for added flavor.
    • Mushroom Soup: Creamy soups made with maitake or enoki mushrooms, fortified with coconut milk for a vegan twist, offer both nutrition and warmth.
    • Mushroom Risotto: A simple yet elegant dish using shiitake mushrooms, perfect for entertaining guests.

    Popular Mushrooms Available in the UK

    The UK offers a diverse range of mushrooms, readily available at supermarkets and specialty stores:

    • Button Mushrooms: The most common type, versatile for various dishes.
    • Porcini: Known for enhancing flavor when dried, ideal for risottos and pasta.
    • Enoki: Characterized by their long stems and small caps, perfect raw in salads and soups.
    • Shiitake: Meaty and flavorful, essential in Asian cuisine.
    • Maitake: Also known as Hen of the Woods, believed to support immune health.
    • Oyster Mushrooms: Thin and delicate, suitable for a wide range of dishes.

    These mushrooms are accessible year-round, with locally sourced varieties offering freshness that enhances any vegan meal. Incorporating these mushrooms into daily meals can enrich your diet with essential nutrients and flavors, making your vegan lifestyle more enjoyable and fulfilling.

  • Japanese Culture

    Cherry Blossom Viewing: A Quintessential Japanese Spring Experience

    March 28, 2024 - By 

    As the spring season blooms across Japan, one tradition brings people together like no other: Hanami, or cherry blossom viewing. This age-old custom is not just about admiring the fleeting beauty of cherry blossoms; it’s a celebration of life, nature, and community. Let’s delve into the essence of hanami, its rich history, and how you can partake in this picturesque tradition, whether you’re in Japan or planning a future visit.

    The Historical Roots of Hanami

    Tracing back to the Nara Period (710-794 AD), hanami initially revolved around the elite enjoying the plum blossoms. However, by the Heian Period (794-1185 AD), cherry blossoms, or sakura, took center stage. The ephemeral beauty of sakura blooms, symbolizing the transient nature of life, resonated deeply with the Japanese ethos influenced by Buddhist concepts of impermanence.

    Celebrating Hanami: More Than Just Flower Viewing

    Hanami is much more than simply looking at flowers; it’s a vibrant, communal affair that involves:

    • Picnicking Under the Blossoms: Families, friends, and colleagues gather under sakura trees in parks and along riverbanks, laying down mats to enjoy food, drinks, and lively conversations. It’s a joyous occasion that epitomizes the spirit of togetherness.
    • Evening Sakura (Yozakura): When the sun sets, many sakura spots are illuminated, offering a mesmerizing view that contrasts the daytime scenery. Strolling under these illuminated trees offers a magical nighttime experience.
    • Local Festivals: Coinciding with the sakura season, numerous localities host festivals celebrating the blossoms. These festivals feature food stalls, musical performances, and dance, adding to the festive atmosphere.

    Recommended Spots for Hanami

    Japan boasts countless spots for cherry blossom viewing, but some are particularly beloved by international visitors:

    • Ueno Park, Tokyo: Home to over a thousand cherry trees, it’s a hub of hanami activity, offering a blend of natural beauty and cultural events.
    • Arashiyama, Kyoto: Known for its scenic river and mountains, Arashiyama provides a breathtaking backdrop for sakura.
    • Osaka Castle Park, Osaka: Combining historical architecture and nature, the park around Osaka Castle is a favorite for its expansive sakura groves.

    Embracing Hanami Wherever You Are

    Even if you’re not in Japan, you can embrace the spirit of hanami by seeking out cherry blossoms in your local area or participating in Japanese cultural events. It’s a reminder to appreciate the beauty around us, the fleeting moments of life, and the connections we share with others.

    Hanami is more than just an event; it’s a heartfelt celebration of nature’s renewal, communal bonds, and the art of living in the moment. Whether you’re gazing at the sakura in Japan or admiring them from afar, let the cherry blossoms inspire you to appreciate the ephemeral beauty of life and the enduring warmth of human connections.

  • Japanese Culture

    Japanese New Year: A Fusion of Tradition and Modernity

    February 1, 2024 - By 

    The end of the year and the beginning of the new one in Japan are times when unique and beautiful culture and traditions come together. From late December to early January, Japan embraces the most sacred and heartwarming season of the year.

    At the year’s end, there’s a custom known as “Ōsōji,” where homes and workplaces are cleaned thoroughly in preparation for the New Year. This is a symbolic act to sweep away the dirt of the old year and make a fresh start. Additionally, there is a tradition of sending New Year’s cards, known as “Nengajō,” to family, friends, and business associates as a greeting for the New Year.

    On New Year’s Eve, many households eat “Toshikoshi Soba” – a tradition that symbolizes longevity and good fortune. At midnight, temples across the country ring their bells 108 times in a ritual known as “Joya no Kane,” representing the dispelling of 108 human desires.

    With the arrival of the New Year comes the custom of “Hatsumōde,” where people visit temples and shrines to pray for their wishes for the year. Famous shrines and temples get particularly crowded with visitors during this time.

    The New Year’s special meal is “Osechi-ryōri,” consisting of colorful dishes packed in layered boxes, each with its own auspicious meaning. Families gather and enjoy spending time together. Osechi is traditionally prepared because the first three days of the New Year were originally meant to be free of cooking, allowing everyone to relax and cherish the time with their families.

    Moreover, children receive “Otoshidama,” money given as a New Year’s gift. This practice is meant to celebrate the New Year and wish for the children’s growth and good health. Typically, Otoshidama is given by relatives and adult family members to the children.

    The end of the year and the beginning of the New Year in Japan are a beautiful time to cherish traditions and family bonds. Through this special period, people from all over the world can understand and appreciate the depth and warmth of Japanese culture. The Japanese New Year is more than just a change of seasons; it is a precious opportunity to renew one’s spirit and strengthen the bonds with family and friends.

  • Health

    Breathing techniques

    November 22, 2023 - By 

    Hello! Today, I’d like to talk about breathing techniques.

    Back when I was playing football, my father often told me to master breathing techniques. Recently, these techniques have been featured in manga like “Demon Slayer,” but in the East, they have been known for their various effects for quite some time.

    History of Breathing Techniques

    Breathing techniques have been practised in various cultures since ancient times. Particularly in Yoga in India and Qigong in China, these techniques have been essential for mental calmness and physical balance. In Western medicine, they’re recognised for reducing stress, managing anxiety, and improving sleep.

    Types of Breathing Techniques

    1. Diaphragmatic Breathing

       – Method: Breathe deeply using the abdomen in a relaxed posture.

       – Benefits: Relaxation, stress reduction, improved digestion.

    2. Chest Breathing

       – Method: Expand the lungs by breathing through the chest.

       – Benefits: Increased concentration, short-term energy boost.

    3. Alternate Nostril Breathing (Nadi Shodhana)

       – Method: Inhale through one nostril and exhale through the other, alternating between the two.

       – Benefits: Mental and physical balance, relaxation, clarity of mind.

    4. Viloma Breathing

       – Method: Inhale in stages, pausing between each breath.

       – Benefits: Mental stability, deep relaxation, autonomic nervous system regulation.

    5. Kapalabhati (Breath of Fire)

       – Method: Rapid, short breaths using the abdominal muscles.

       – Benefits: Activation of energy, internal cleansing, strengthened respiratory system.

    6. 4-7-8 Breathing Technique

       – Method: Inhale for 4 seconds, hold the breath for 7 seconds, then exhale for 8 seconds.

       – Benefits: Relaxation, improved sleep, stress management.

    7. Lion’s Breath (Simhasana Pranayama)

       – Method: Open your mouth wide, stick out your tongue, and exhale forcefully.

       – Benefits: Relaxation of throat and facial muscles, release of stress.

    Benefits of Breathing Techniques

    – Stress Reduction: Calms the autonomic nervous system, providing a sense of relaxation.

    – Improved Concentration: Settles the mind, enhancing focus.

    – Physical Health: Better blood circulation and increased oxygen supply, beneficial for overall health.

    – Improved Sleep Quality: The relaxing effect aids in enhancing sleep quality.

    Breathing techniques don’t require any initial investment as they solely involve your body, making them accessible to start immediately. Finding a technique that suits you can greatly improve both your physical and mental well-being.

  • Health

    The Charm and Benefits of Moxibustion: My Experience and Its Practice in the UK

    October 25, 2023 - By 

    Hello, everyone! Today, I’d like to delve into a somewhat special topic – “moxibustion.” I’d love to explore the allure, the benefits, and the practice of this traditional treatment in the UK, which I’ve personally experienced in the past.

    What is Moxibustion?

    Moxibustion is a treatment method that has been handed down from ancient times in China and Japan. It involves warming specific parts of the body or meridians (acupuncture points) using fire, aiming to adjust the flow of energy within the body. Just hearing about it gives a sense of warmth, doesn’t it?

    My Personal Experience

    Interestingly, I used to receive moxibustion treatments annually until a few years ago. The method I experienced is called “direct moxibustion.” It involves placing the ash from burned mugwort on the skin and placing the moxibustion on top. It felt as if vitality was springing up from within my body, along with the warmth.

    Key Benefits of Moxibustion

    1. Improved blood circulation

    2. Muscle relaxation

    3. Boosted immunity

    4. Autonomic nerve balance

    5. Pain relief

    6. Enhanced digestive function

    However, the effects can vary from person to person. Therefore, it’s essential to consult with a specialist before undergoing treatment.

    Moxibustion in the UK

    Surprisingly, moxibustion can also be experienced in the UK! It’s garnering attention as traditional Oriental medicine and a part of complementary and alternative treatments. You can receive moxibustion treatments from acupuncturists and clinics in the UK. Notably, the British Acupuncture Council (BAcC) has set standards and guidelines to ensure high-quality treatment.

    In conclusion, moxibustion is a wonderful treatment that offers warmth and heals both the mind and body. If you’re intrigued, I highly recommend giving it a try!

    Until next time!

  • Drink

    Japanese Sake(Nihon-Shu)

    October 2, 2023 - By 

    Hello!

    In our restaurant, sake is immensely popular. Due to numerous inquiries and feedback from our customers, we would like to discuss everything from the basics of sake to its varieties and ways to enjoy it.

    Before we delve deeper into the allure of sake, let’s start with the basics.

    Sake is a traditional Japanese alcoholic beverage made from rice, koji (rice malt), water, and yeast. Here are the basic information on its production process and types:

    Production Process

    – Rice Polishing: Before brewing, the outer portion of the rice grain is removed. A lower rice-polishing ratio often results in a higher quality sake.

      – Rice Washing & Soaking: The rice is first washed and then soaked to absorb an appropriate amount of water.

      – Steaming: The washed and soaked rice is steamed.

      – Koji Making: A portion of the steamed rice has koji mold added to make koji rice.

      – Fermentation: Koji rice, steamed rice, water, and yeast are mixed and fermented, with multiple additions made over time.

      – Pressing: Once fermentation is complete, the mash is pressed to separate the clear liquid from the residual solids (lees).

    Ways to Enjoy Sake

    1. Cold Sake (Hiyazake): 

       – This method involves chilling the sake.

       – It’s especially recommended during summer or warmer seasons.

       – It allows you to enjoy a refreshing taste and aroma.

    2. Warm Sake (Atsukan): 

       – Sake is heated to between 40°C to 55°C.

       – Popular during winter or colder seasons.

       – Warming enhances its mellow taste and aroma.

    3. Room Temperature (Jouon):

       – Served neither chilled nor warmed.

       – Lets you directly appreciate the inherent taste and aroma of the sake.

    4. On the Rocks:

       – Served with ice. Enjoyed similarly to whiskey or shochu.

       – Ideal for hot days or pairing with certain meals.

    5. Cocktails:

       – Mixed with other beverages, fruits, or herbs.

       – Discover new flavors and ways to enjoy.

    6. Using Ochoko or Glasses:

       – Whether in a traditional “ochoko”, wine glass, or tumbler, the choice of vessel can influence the flavor and aroma, offering different impressions.

    Sake pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. In our establishment, we especially recommend enjoying it with dishes like mushroom isobe-age (seaweed-wrapped fried mushrooms) and tofu steak.

    With its diverse varieties, and the way its character changes based on temperature, vessel, and method of consumption, sake offers a myriad of experiences. Trying it in different ways can be a journey to find your personal preferences and pairings. We invite you to relish the profound world of sake.

  • vegan food - Workshop

    Soy Sauce Workshop

    September 21, 2023 - By 

    Hello, everyone! Today, I’d like to share my experience at a soy sauce workshop I recently attended. This workshop was hosted by Haruko Uchishiba from Koji Fermenteria, and it’s gained quite a reputation, with even famous chefs taking part. You can find more details here.

    In Japan, soy sauce is an indispensable seasoning with a rich history. We use a significant amount of it in our restaurant, so the idea of making our own intrigued me.

    The History of Soy Sauce

    First, we delved into the history and various types of soy sauce. Soy sauce has its origins in China, dating back to the 3rd century BCE, where it was known as “doujiang.” It later made its way to Japan around the 8th century.

    Types of Soy Sauce

    Soy sauce comes in several different types and variations, with some of the main ones being:

    1. Regular Soy Sauce: This is the most common type used in everyday cooking. It’s often referred to as “usukuchi” and boasts a well-balanced flavor.

    2. Dark Soy Sauce: Known for its rich, intense flavor and darker color, it’s perfect for dishes like grilled meats and stews.

    3. Light Soy Sauce: This variety has a milder flavor and a lighter color, making it ideal for dishes where you want a subtle seasoning, such as salads and hot pots.

    4. Premium Soy Sauce: Crafted with high-quality soybeans and aged for an extended period, it offers a rich flavor and depth. It’s commonly used in high-end dishes like sushi and sashimi.

    5. Low-Sodium Soy Sauce: With less salt compared to regular soy sauce, this version caters to those watching their sodium intake.

    6. Sweet Soy Sauce: Highlighting sweetness, it’s great for dishes like teriyaki and sweet-savory creations.

    7. Tamari Soy Sauce: This high-quality soy sauce undergoes long-term fermentation and aging, often produced in specific regions like Kyoto and Aichi Prefecture.

    These soy sauce variations are chosen based on the type of dish being prepared and personal taste preferences.

    Making Soy Sauce

    Now, let’s talk about how soy sauce is made. First, we create a koji starter for soy sauce. We wash and soak soybeans, then steam them in a pressure cooker. Afterward, we roast wheat, blend it finely, and mix it with soy sauce koji. This mixture is then combined with the steamed soybeans and placed in a container for fermentation, with stirring every 48 hours. Once the soy sauce koji is ready, it’s mixed with saltwater and stored in a bottle for approximately 8 months. Finally, the soy sauce is pressed and heat-treated, resulting in the finished product.

    While the soy sauce-making process is time-consuming, the reward of savoring homemade soy sauce is truly delightful. Moreover, there are various methods to explore, making it an exciting culinary journey.

    The workshop, lasting about 4 hours, was an incredibly enjoyable experience. Experimenting with different ingredients while making soy sauce adds a unique touch to the final product. While crafting soy sauce at home might seem challenging, participating in workshops like this provides the necessary knowledge and guidance, making it surprisingly achievable. I encourage you all to give soy sauce-making a try!

  • Health

    Fasting

    September 13, 2023 - By 

    Hello!

    Today, I want to discuss fasting. I fast once or twice a year. I don’t have a fixed schedule for it, but I choose to fast when I feel my body is sluggish or when I need to focus intensely on something. Based on my experience, fasting makes me feel lighter, improves my concentration, and it seems to slow down the passage of time.

    What are the benefits of fasting?

    1. Weight loss: Limiting caloric intake through fasting can aid in short-term weight management.

    2. Improved insulin sensitivity: Enhanced insulin function can potentially reduce the risk of diabetes.

    3. Promotion of cellular autophagy: This is akin to a “deep cleaning” for cells. It helps remove old and unnecessary cellular components while facilitating the creation of new ones.

    4. Contribution to cardiovascular health: Factors that support the health of the heart and blood vessels, such as blood pressure control and cholesterol improvement, are expected.

    5. Enhanced brain health: It’s believed to stimulate brain activity and promote the growth of nerve cells.

    6. Reduction in inflammation: By decreasing inflammation within the body, there’s potential to reduce the risk of various diseases.

    Recommended foods after fasting

    The post-fast meal is crucial. Suddenly consuming a large or spicy meal can strain the digestive system. Here are some food suggestions suitable for post-fasting:

    1. Vegetable soup: Low-salt vegetable soups are gentle on the stomach and also provide nutrients.

    2. Fermented foods: Products like yogurt, natto, and miso containing lactic acid bacteria support gut health.

    3. Rice dishes or porridge: These are easy to digest and suitable for initial meals after fasting.

    4. Steamed vegetables: Softly cooked veggies offer dietary fiber and nutrients.

    5. Fruits: Soft fruits or smoothies are good for vitamins and minerals intake, but be cautious with high-sugar fruits.

    6. Proteins: Tofu aids in muscle recovery after fasting.

    It’s essential to pay attention to the quantity and choice of food after fasting. It’s advisable to start with small portions and gradually increase. Also, it’s recommended to avoid high-fat, sugary, spicy foods, and caffeinated beverages.

    Before attempting to fast, it’s strongly recommended to seek advice from doctors or nutrition specialists. Depending on the fasting method, duration, and individual health, the appropriate post-fast meal may vary. Fasting isn’t suitable for everyone and needs caution.

    Conclusion

    Many people embrace fasting for its numerous health benefits. However, to maximize its effects, a proper approach is essential. The meals before and after fasting and health management during the fasting period are keys. Above all, it’s crucial to listen to your body and practice fasting safely. Health is a lifelong treasure. By understanding and facing your body’s needs, you can lead a more fulfilling life.

  • vegan food

    Koji (Kouji) – Japan’s Traditional Superfood

    September 4, 2023 - By 

    Hello, everyone! Today, I will talk about ‘Koji (Kouji)’, a traditional Japanese ingredient. Koji is a unique fermented food ingredient deeply rooted in our diet. It is used in the production of indispensable foods such as sake, mirin, soy sauce, and miso in our daily meals. It is also considered good for health. In our restaurant, salt koji, soy sauce koji, sweet sake, cooking sake, soy sauce, and miso are indispensable ingredients. This time, I will introduce how to use koji and its health effects.

    What is Koji?

    Koji is produced when Aspergillus oryzae and other Aspergillus fungi grow on grains such as rice, soybeans, and wheat, and generate enzymes in the process. These enzymes break down the starch and protein of the grains into sugars and amino acids. This conversion process is very important when making fermented foods and beverages.

    How to Use Koji

    Making Miso: Koji is a main ingredient for making miso. You can make homemade miso by fermenting a mixture of soybeans, salt, and koji.

    Making Sake: Koji is also necessary for making sake (nihonshu, sake). Koji converts the starch in rice into sugar, and this sugar is then converted into alcohol by yeast.

    Making Amazake: You can make sweet sake by fermenting a mixture of koji, water, and sugar.

    Making Salt Koji: Salt koji is made by fermenting a mixture of koji, salt, and water. It can be used as a marinade for vegetables, meat, and fish, or as a dressing or seasoning.

    Pickling: You can pickle vegetables using koji. The enzymes in koji bring out the umami in vegetables and make them tender.

    Koji Stew: You can make stews and simmered dishes using koji. It brings out the umami in the ingredients and makes them tender.

    Koji Dressing: You can make dressing using koji as a base, and adding olive oil, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper.

    Bread Making: You can make bread using koji. The enzymes in koji help the dough ferment and make the bread fluffy.

    Note: When cooking with koji, you need to be careful about the activity of the koji enzymes. Koji enzymes are sensitive to high temperatures, so be careful not to deactivate the enzymes during cooking.

    Health Benefits of Koji

    So, why is koji good for your body?

    Digestive Health: The enzymes produced by koji mold help break down starch and proteins in food into simple sugars and amino acids. This is especially important for people who struggle with digestive issues or have difficulty absorbing nutrients.

    Nutrient Absorption: Koji helps break down food into its constituent parts, increasing the availability of nutrients and making it easier for the body to absorb them.

    Probiotic Effects: Although koji itself is not a probiotic, the fermentation process generates beneficial bacteria and compounds that help improve gut flora.

    Vitamins and Minerals: The fermentation process increases the levels of certain vitamins and minerals, making the food more nutritious.

    Enhancement of Taste and Flavor: The fermentation by koji enhances the umami of the food, making it tastier and more satisfying.

    Conclusion

    Koji is a traditional fermented food ingredient deeply rooted in Japanese food culture. It is not only indispensable for the production of sake, mirin, soy sauce, and miso, but also helps digestion and improves nutritional value, which is good for health. Dishes made with koji are flavorful and nutritious, so please try to incorporate them into your daily meals. Also, it is difficult to bring out the umami in vegan dishes, but using koji will add depth to the flavor. Please try it at home. So, have a healthy and delicious food life!

  • vegan food

    Shojin Cuisine: A Buddhist Meal for Purifying the Soul and Nourishing the Body.

    August 23, 2023 - By 

    Hello, everyone! Today, I’d like to delve into the allure and profound history of Japan’s traditional “Shojin cuisine.”

    At our restaurant, we serve dishes in a unique style called “Vegan Japanese.” At the heart of this style lies the philosophy of Japan’s traditional “Shojin cuisine.” Although we do not belong to any specific religion, we truly appreciate and resonate with the philosophy of “purification of the heart” that’s ingrained in Shojin cuisine, as well as the spirit of gratitude towards ingredients. By incorporating this into modern vegan dishes, we aim to provide meals that are both healthy and soothing to the soul.

    Lately, there’s been an increasing demand from our customers for dishes that avoid the “Gokun” (garlic, green onions, ginger, rakkyo, and asafoetida). Known ingredients that are traditionally avoided in Shojin cuisine. In response, we’ve expanded our menu to include more dishes without these ingredients.

    What is Shojin Cuisine? Shojin cuisine is based on Buddhist teachings and uses only plant-based ingredients. The primary purpose of this meal is “to abstain from taking life and to remove worldly desires and disturbances from the mind.” The meal itself is seen as a form of spiritual practice. Especially in Japan, from the Heian period through the Kamakura period, this culinary culture spread alongside Zen Buddhism, forming various rules and philosophies.

    Five Tastes and Six Flavors The “Five Tastes” refer to sweet, sour, bitter, spicy, and salty. When the “mild flavor” (Tanmi), which accentuates the inherent taste of ingredients, is added, it’s called the “Six Flavors.” This philosophy is all about maximizing the natural deliciousness of the ingredients.

    Choosing Ingredients Apart from abstaining from animal-based ingredients, “Gokun” like garlic and green onions are also avoided. This is because Gokun are believed to stimulate desires and anger, thus being unsuitable for purifying the mind.

    Meal as a Spiritual Practice Manners and etiquette during meals are held in high regard. This embodies the gratitude towards food, the attitude of cherishing it, and the pursuit of self-purification as part of the meal ritual.

    Soto Zen School and “Tenzo Kyokun” Within Zen Buddhism, the “Soto Zen” school is particularly renowned for its deep teachings on Shojin cuisine. Its founder, Dogen Zenji, detailed the mindset towards cooking in a text called “Tenzo Kyokun.” Here, respect for ingredients and tools, as well as the importance of “Three Minds,” are discussed. These “Three Minds” are “Joyful Mind” (Kishin) – the joy of cooking and serving; “Caring Mind” (Roshin) – consideration and attention to detail; and “Vast Mind” (Daishin) – a generous heart without prejudice or obstinacy. Even today, these teachings continue to influence many.

    In Conclusion Shojin cuisine, which not only promotes physical health but also pursues peace of mind. Why not immerse yourself in the profound flavors and philosophy of Shojin cuisine? Stay tuned for more heartwarming and delicious stories in our next installment!