From Sushi to Tempura: The Japanese Dishes You Must Try at Wakame

Japanese cuisine is a celebration of flavours, textures, and traditions, and at Wakame, we’re excited to share this rich culinary heritage with you. Our menu is a curated selection of Japan’s most beloved dishes, each prepared with meticulous attention to detail. Here are seven must-try dishes that capture the essence of Japanese dining, offering both variety and depth that will leave you longing for more.

Sushi: A Symphony of Flavours

Nigiri Sushi is at the heart of our sushi selection. This traditional dish consists of a slice of fresh fish or seafood perched delicately atop a small mound of vinegared rice.

• Origin: Nigiri sushi dates back to the Edo period (1603–1868) in Tokyo. Initially, sushi was a method of preserving fish with fermented rice, but over time, it evolved into the fresh, quick-to-serve delicacy we enjoy today.
• Health Benefits: Nigiri sushi is rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids essential for heart health. The vinegared rice provides a small but satisfying source of carbohydrates, making this dish a balanced and healthy meal option.

Our Sake (Salmon) Nigiri and Maguro (Tuna) Nigiri are some of the favourites among our guests. The freshness of the fish, combined with the perfectly seasoned rice, creates a harmony of delicate and satisfying flavours.

For those who enjoy variety, our Maki Rolls are a must-try. These rolls are wrapped in nori (seaweed) and filled with a combination of fresh fish, vegetables, and sometimes a hint of wasabi. The contrasting textures and flavours make maki rolls a favourite for sushi lovers.

• Varieties: Wakame offers a wide range of maki rolls, including the popular Crazy Crispy California Roll, Spicy Tuna Roll, and Dragon Roll. Each offers a different blend of ingredients, providing a unique taste experience with every bite.

Tempura: Crispy and Light

Tempura is a dish that perfectly exemplifies the Japanese philosophy of enhancing natural flavours with minimal intervention. Our tempura is prepared using a light, airy batter that crisps up beautifully when fried, allowing the fresh ingredients inside to shine.

• Varieties:some text
  • Ebi (Shrimp) Tempura: Juicy shrimp encased in a delicate, crispy batter, offering a perfect balance between the shrimp's sweetness and the batter's lightness.
  • Tempura Moriawase: A delightful combination of shrimp and mixed vegetables, lightly battered and fried to perfection, offering a variety of textures and flavours.

Tempura is best enjoyed with a dipping sauce, typically made from dashi (a Japanese soup stock), soy sauce, and mirin. This sauce enhances the flavour of the tempura without overpowering it, allowing the natural taste of the ingredients to come through.

Sashimi: Pure and Fresh

Sashimi is the pinnacle of simplicity in Japanese cuisine. It showcases the pure, unadulterated flavour of fresh seafood, with thin slices of raw fish served without rice.

Health Benefits: Sashimi is an excellent source of lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids, promoting heart health and overall well-being. It’s also low in calories, making it a healthy choice for those watching their diet.

At Wakame, our sashimi selection includes Salmon (Sake), Tuna (Maguro), and Yellowtail (Hamachi). Each slice is tender, flavourful, and impeccably presented, making sashimi a simple and elegant dish.

Gyoza: Savoury Dumplings

Gyoza are delightful pan-fried dumplings that perfectly balance crispy exterior and juicy interior. Filled with a savoury mixture of ground meat and vegetables, they make for an irresistible starter or snack.

• Origins: Gyoza was inspired by Chinese jiaozi and introduced to Japan in the early 20th century. The Japanese version is typically thinner and more delicately flavoured, focusing on achieving the perfect balance between crispy and tender.
• Varieties: At Wakame, you can enjoy options like Chicken Gyoza and Prawn Gyoza, each served with a tangy dipping sauce that perfectly complements the rich flavours of the filling.

Yakimeshi: A Comforting Rice Dish

While Wakame doesn't offer traditional donburi, we do have Yakimeshi, which is a satisfying alternative. This wok-fried rice dish is hearty and flavourful, featuring ingredients such as chicken and seafood combined with soy sauce and butter, resulting in a comforting and aromatic meal.

• Varieties: You can choose from Tori Yakimeshi (Chicken Fried Rice) or Seafood Yakimeshi. Both options provide a rich, satisfying flavour that pairs well with a side of miso soup or tempura.

Yakitori Alternatives: Tori Karaage

While Yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) isn't on our menu, we offer Tori Karaage, which delivers a similarly satisfying experience. This Japanese-style fried chicken is marinated in ginger and soy sauce before being perfectly deep-fried.

• Tori Karaage: The crispy, golden exterior contrasts beautifully with the tender, juicy chicken inside, making this dish a crowd-pleaser.

Signature Maki Rolls: Unique and Delicious

Wakame's Signature Maki Rolls offer a twist on traditional sushi, combining unique ingredients and flavours for an unforgettable dining experience.

• Spider Roll: Soft shell crab tempura, avocado, and orange tobiko rolled with tanuki and topped with spicy mayo.
• Salmon Truffle Roll: Avocado-wrapped maki filled with salmon and tanuki, topped with truffle mayo and drizzled with unagi sauce.
• Beef Truffle Roll: Australian Angus beef, asparagus, and yakiniku sauce topped with miso butter and sliced truffles, offering a luxurious twist on the classic maki roll.

These signature rolls are perfect for those looking to explore new and exciting flavours, each offering a unique taste experience that highlights the creativity and skill of our chefs.

A Culinary Journey Awaits

At Wakame, we are dedicated to offering an authentic Japanese dining experience. Our menu features a diverse range of dishes showcasing the finest Japanese cuisine. From the refined flavours of sushi and sashimi to the comforting warmth of yakimeshi and the crispy delight of tempura, our offerings are crafted to deliver an unforgettable culinary journey. Visit us to explore these traditional dishes and discover the essence of Japanese dining.