Dear Japanese Food Lovers,
Hello from Aiko at isfor WA, Oxford!
What do you cook when you don’t want to spend much time in the kitchen on a Monday night?
For me, it’s all about quick comfort dishes that still taste homemade.
One favourite is stir-fried udon noodles with your choice of vegetables, seasoned with dashi soy sauce and oyster sauce, and finished with a drizzle of sesame oil for aroma.
Another go-to is my instant-style pasta — sauté some minced meat and cabbage or kale, then add dashi and soy milk, and cook the pasta directly in the same pan. It’s creamy, full of umami, and ready in no time.
You can always tweak the flavour with a little garlic, mixed herbs, or your favourite spices for an extra twist! 🍝✨


Yesterday, my neighbour kindly gave me a big bunch of quinces, and now the whole house is filled with the scent of autumn.
In Japan, quince is often used in throat-soothing remedies, such as quince extract sweets and lozenges.
I’ve heard that in the UK, people sometimes roast them — I might give that a try next time! 🍂

Happy Cooking!
Aiko
isfor WA