Dear Japanese Food Lovers,
Hello from Aiko at isfor WA, Oxford!
Christmas is just around the corner!
Many of you are probably already planning or preparing something special for the festive season.
In Japan, however, the main family celebration comes a little later — during the New Year period. It’s a time for families to gather, relax, and share special dishes known as osechi ryōri (traditional New Year’s food).
Each dish in osechi has a special meaning for good luck, health, or prosperity in the coming year. For example, datemaki, a sweet rolled omelette, symbolises knowledge and learning; kuro-mame (black soybeans) represent hard work and good health; and kazunoko (herring roe) stands for prosperity and many descendants.
You’ll often see these beautifully presented dishes packed into layered lacquer boxes called jūbako — a real feast for both the eyes and the taste buds!
We’ll be sharing some easy osechi-style recipes on isfor WA soon — stay tuned and try celebrating the New Year, Japanese style!
Happy Cooking!
Aiko
isfor WA
