Japanese eggs are known for their strict hygiene and production processes, making them a beloved ingredient across the country!
Tamago, or simply “egg,” is a much-loved ingredient in the world of Japanese cuisine. From sushi toppings to elaborate pan-fried egg dishes, you’ll find tamago in so many shapes and sizes in Japan. In fact, Japanese eggs are of such high quality that health experts consider them safe to eat in their raw form.
Ramen Condiments
One of the most popular toppings at a standard ramen shop in Japan is the boiled egg.
Usually about 200 yen for the add-on, it comes in two halves vertically sliced and with a rather runny egg yolk.
Other Japanese dishes such as sukiyaki use a raw egg as a dipping sauce for the boiled meats, a combination that is both delicious and nutritious.
Runny Egg Goodness
Oyakodon is a popular rice bowl dish that consists of runny scrambled egg and grilled chicken served atop a bed of steamed rice.
The term “oyakodon” literally means “parent-child bowl,” referring to the combination of the chicken and the eggs which the chicken lays (a morbid name for a dish, I know…).
In any case, this is a standard egg dish you’ll find at restaurants across Japan, typically costing as little as 500 yen at popular chains like Nakau.
Iconic Dish – Omurice
Perhaps the most iconic of all egg-based dishes in Japan is omurice, a dish consisting of fried rice, vegetables, and chicken wrapped in a saucy egg omelet and marinated in a sweet soy sauce.
An absolute must-try, I’d highly recommend Kichi Kichi Omurice for its high-quality recipe and its expert chef Motokichi Yukimura, who has been perfecting his craft for nearly 50 years!
In addition to being served a succulent omurice meal, you also get an entertaining cooking show from Mr. Kichi Kichi himself with his quirky humor and theatrical cooking performance!
The Best Egg Sandwich Ever!
Japanese convenience stores are notorious for their selection of scrumptious, mouth-watering sandwiches.
In particular, their egg sandwiches have reached a level of worldwide recognition for their smooth, moist, creamy, and visually pleasing egg filling with soft, no-crust white bread.
Available at 7-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart, they are an absolute must-try when you visit Japan!
To learn more about life in Japan, check out my book: The Japanese Pursuit of Perfection. This book features my most profound observations of Japanese culture and society as a foreign resident. Available in e-book, paperback, and hardcover. Grab your copy today!