Many Japanese immigrated to the Hawaiian Islands around the turn of the 20th century, bringing with them traditional foods and customs. But the Hawaiian, Portuguese and Chinese presence influenced the Japanese, especially their cuisine.

"Yaki” means grilled; hence “miso yaki” is a grilled or broiled dish with a miso paste seasoning. The Japanese adore miso-flavored foods.

There are different renditions of miso soup, but this one is the classic version. A secret to a delicate flavor is not to let the soup boil after the miso has been added.

Made from fermented soybeans, miso paste comes in many variations, each with distinctive characteristics. Not only a basic ingredient for Japanese miso soup, miso paste also adds unique flavor to dipping sauces, salads, and meat and seafood rubs.

Panko, or Japanese bread crumbs, is different from other types of bread crumbs. If you cannot buy panko pre-packaged, you can make your own using this easy recipe.

There are several grades of nori marketed around the world. Good quality nori sheets will make a difference in the taste of your nori dishes. Here is how to spot better quality nori.

Ajitsuke nori, a teriyaki-flavored snack, is quite popular with both foreigners and Japanese. Learn how to make your own and you can season it anyway you like.

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Brief description of Japanese Foods that begin with the letters T through Z. See the complete list under the Glossary link!

Description of Japanese ingredients that begin with the letters P, Q, R, S and T. See the complete list under the Glossary link!