50+ Irresistible Sunday Japanese Recipes for a Perfect Meal

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Japanese cuisine offers an incredible variety of flavors and textures, from delicate sushi to savory ramen and comforting donburi.

When it comes to Sunday meals, Japanese dishes are perfect for bringing people together, whether you’re looking for something light, hearty, or interactive.

The art of Japanese cooking combines fresh ingredients, minimalism, and rich umami flavors, making it ideal for creating satisfying, wholesome meals on your day off.

In this collection, you’ll find over 50 delicious Sunday Japanese recipes that will inspire you to enjoy a relaxing, flavorful meal with family and friends.

From classic comfort food like miso soup and teriyaki chicken to fun dishes like okonomiyaki and shabu-shabu, there’s something for every taste.

So, let’s dive in and explore a treasure trove of traditional and modern Japanese recipes to elevate your Sundays.

50+ Irresistible Sunday Japanese Recipes for a Perfect Meal

Japanese cuisine offers a delightful array of dishes that make Sundays feel special.

Whether you’re preparing a comforting bowl of ramen, a vibrant sushi platter, or an interactive hot pot like shabu-shabu, these 50+ recipes will ensure your Sunday meal is both satisfying and memorable.

The simplicity and elegance of Japanese dishes, combined with the wide range of flavors, allow you to customize meals to your personal preferences.

So, whether you’re enjoying a quiet meal at home or sharing with loved ones, these recipes will take your Sunday dining experience to the next level.

Tonkatsu (Breaded Pork Cutlet)

Tonkatsu is a beloved Japanese dish consisting of a crispy, golden-brown breaded and fried pork cutlet, often served with shredded cabbage and a tangy sauce. It’s a hearty and satisfying meal, perfect for a Sunday when you want something indulgent and comforting. This dish is not only simple to make, but it also delivers on flavor, making it a favorite in both households and restaurants.

Ingredients:

  • 2 pork loin or tenderloin chops
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp tonkatsu sauce (or Worcestershire sauce as a substitute)
  • 1/4 small cabbage, finely shredded

Instructions:

  1. Season the pork chops with salt and pepper on both sides.
  2. Prepare three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with the beaten egg, and one with panko breadcrumbs.
  3. Dredge each pork chop in the flour, dip it in the egg, and then coat it with panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure it sticks.
  4. Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Once hot, fry the pork chops for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. You can check the internal temperature, which should reach 145°F.
  5. Remove from the pan and let the tonkatsu rest on a paper towel to remove excess oil.
  6. Slice the pork chop into strips and serve it with shredded cabbage and tonkatsu sauce on the side.

Tonkatsu is not only delicious but incredibly versatile. It’s typically enjoyed with a bowl of rice and miso soup, but you can also serve it in sandwiches (katsu sando) or over a bed of rice for a satisfying donburi. The crispy texture paired with the savory sauce creates a wonderful contrast to the tender pork.

Tonkatsu is a quintessential Japanese comfort food that brings together a perfect balance of crispiness, juiciness, and savory flavors. Whether enjoyed with a simple cabbage salad or as part of a larger meal, it’s a dish that never disappoints. It’s perfect for a lazy Sunday when you want to treat yourself to something satisfying and delicious.

Chanko Nabe (Sumo Stew)

Chanko Nabe is a hearty Japanese hot pot often enjoyed by sumo wrestlers to fuel their intense training sessions. This dish is packed with protein, vegetables, and broth, making it an excellent choice for a filling and nutritious Sunday meal. With its variety of ingredients and umami-packed broth, it’s a one-pot meal that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups chicken broth (or dashi broth for a more authentic flavor)
  • 2 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless, cut into chunks
  • 200g tofu, cubed
  • 1 small napa cabbage, chopped
  • 1 medium carrot, sliced
  • 6 shiitake mushrooms, sliced
  • 4 oz udon noodles
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp sake
  • 1 tbsp mirin
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 2 green onions, chopped

Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a simmer. Add soy sauce, sake, and mirin to the broth for seasoning.
  2. Add the chicken thighs and tofu to the pot, simmering until the chicken is fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Add the napa cabbage, carrot, and mushrooms to the pot and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
  4. Add the udon noodles to the pot and cook according to package instructions (typically 3-5 minutes).
  5. Drizzle sesame oil into the pot, and top with chopped green onions before serving.

Chanko Nabe is incredibly customizable. You can add other ingredients like fish cakes, daikon radish, or other vegetables depending on your preference. It’s all about the broth, which can be made richer or lighter based on how much seasoning you add.

Chanko Nabe is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. The rich, flavorful broth combined with tender chicken, tofu, and vegetables makes for a comforting and fulfilling dish. It’s perfect for a family gathering or a relaxed Sunday when you want to feel nourished and satisfied. Plus, its versatility means you can adapt it to suit your dietary preferences.

Miso Soup with Tofu and Seaweed

Miso soup is a staple of Japanese cuisine and often served as part of a traditional breakfast or meal. This version with tofu and seaweed is light, nutritious, and packed with flavor, making it an ideal option for a healthy yet comforting Sunday dish. The savory miso base, combined with the delicate tofu and umami-rich seaweed, creates a simple but satisfying soup.

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups dashi broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
  • 2 tbsp miso paste (white or red miso)
  • 1/2 block firm tofu, cut into cubes
  • 1/4 cup dried wakame seaweed (or fresh, if available)
  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce (optional)
  • 1 tsp sesame oil (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a pot, bring the dashi broth to a simmer. Once simmering, dissolve the miso paste in the broth by stirring well. You can use a small strainer to ensure the miso dissolves completely and no lumps remain.
  2. Add the tofu cubes to the pot and gently heat them for about 2-3 minutes.
  3. Stir in the wakame seaweed and cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the seaweed to expand and soften.
  4. Add soy sauce and sesame oil to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
  5. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with freshly chopped green onions.

Miso soup is a great way to start any meal and can easily be paired with other Japanese dishes such as rice, grilled fish, or pickled vegetables. The combination of miso’s earthy, salty flavor and the soft tofu makes this soup a light but fulfilling option for a Sunday meal.

Miso soup is an essential part of Japanese cooking, and its simplicity is part of its charm. The tofu adds a delicate texture, while the wakame provides a rich umami flavor that complements the miso broth perfectly. This light and nourishing soup is perfect for a Sunday when you want something soothing, yet full of flavor. It’s quick to prepare, making it an excellent choice for a relaxed start to your weekend meal.

Ebi Tempura (Shrimp Tempura)

Ebi Tempura is a classic Japanese dish where shrimp are battered and deep-fried to perfection, resulting in a light and crispy texture. It’s often served with a dipping sauce, making it an ideal dish for a weekend meal or special occasion. This dish is a favorite in Japanese restaurants and is perfect for a Sunday when you crave something indulgent yet satisfying.

Ingredients:

  • 10 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1 egg, lightly beaten
  • 1/2 cup cold sparkling water (or ice-cold water)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Vegetable oil for frying
  • Tempura dipping sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions:

  1. Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel and season lightly with salt and pepper.
  2. In a bowl, mix the flour, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg with the sparkling water.
  3. Gradually add the flour mixture to the egg-water mixture, stirring until just combined. The batter should remain slightly lumpy; don’t overmix.
  4. Heat oil in a deep frying pan or pot to 350°F (175°C). The oil should be deep enough to submerge the shrimp.
  5. Dip each shrimp into the batter and carefully place it into the hot oil. Fry in batches for 2-3 minutes until golden and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan.
  6. Remove the shrimp from the oil and drain on paper towels.
  7. Serve with tempura dipping sauce on the side.

Ebi Tempura is often enjoyed as part of a larger meal, typically accompanied by rice and miso soup. The crispiness of the tempura paired with the umami dipping sauce makes each bite incredibly satisfying. You can also serve it with other tempura vegetables, such as sweet potato or zucchini, for added variety.

Ebi Tempura is a deliciously crispy treat that’s perfect for a Sunday feast. The batter’s light texture keeps the shrimp tender inside while providing a satisfying crunch on the outside. This dish is not only easy to make but also visually impressive, making it a great choice for family gatherings or special occasions.

Okonomiyaki (Japanese Savory Pancake)

Okonomiyaki is a savory Japanese pancake filled with various ingredients like cabbage, pork, and seafood. It’s a fun, customizable dish that can be tailored to your tastes, making it a great option for a laid-back Sunday meal. The combination of crispy edges, tender filling, and a drizzle of savory sauce makes this dish a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup dashi stock (or water for a vegetarian version)
  • 1 egg
  • 2 cups shredded cabbage
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions
  • 4 oz thinly sliced pork belly (or bacon)
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil for frying
  • Okonomiyaki sauce (or Worcestershire sauce as a substitute)
  • Katsuobushi (bonito flakes) for garnish
  • Aji-no-moto (MSG) for added umami (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, dashi stock, and egg to form a batter. The batter should be somewhat thick but pourable.
  2. Add the shredded cabbage and chopped green onions to the batter and mix well to combine.
  3. Heat a griddle or large frying pan over medium heat and add a little oil. Pour a portion of the batter into the pan, spreading it out into a round pancake shape. Place slices of pork belly on top.
  4. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. You can use a spatula to flip the pancake gently.
  5. Once cooked, transfer to a plate and drizzle with okonomiyaki sauce. Garnish with bonito flakes and optional aji-no-moto for added umami.

Okonomiyaki is often served with pickled ginger or a side of rice. The versatility of this dish allows for substitutions depending on your preferences—whether you opt for seafood, beef, or even just vegetables. The crispy outer layer combined with the soft interior is what makes this pancake so beloved.

Okonomiyaki is the epitome of comfort food, with its crispy edges and savory, hearty filling. It’s a wonderful dish to enjoy on a Sunday, as it’s not only satisfying but also highly adaptable. Whether you prefer pork, seafood, or a veggie-packed version, Okonomiyaki can be tailored to suit any taste, making it a great choice for a family meal.

Japanese Curry Rice (Kare Raisu)

Japanese Curry Rice is a beloved comfort food in Japan. Unlike spicy Indian curries, Japanese curry is thick, mildly sweet, and savory, with a rich, velvety texture. It’s commonly served over rice, making it a filling and comforting dish perfect for a lazy Sunday. The ingredients meld together to create a satisfying flavor that’s perfect for a cozy weekend meal.

Ingredients:

  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
  • 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 2 chicken breasts or thighs, cut into chunks
  • 4 cups water or chicken broth
  • 1 box Japanese curry roux (such as Golden Curry or Vermont Curry)
  • 4 cups steamed white rice (to serve)
  • Pickled ginger for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add the diced carrots and potatoes to the pot and cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  3. Add the chicken chunks and cook until browned on all sides.
  4. Pour in the water or chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and the chicken is cooked through.
  5. Break the curry roux into pieces and stir it into the pot, letting it dissolve and thicken the sauce. Simmer for another 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the curry is thick and smooth.
  6. Serve the curry over steamed rice and garnish with pickled ginger, if desired.

Japanese curry rice is incredibly hearty and can be customized with various proteins, such as beef, pork, or even tofu. The rich, comforting curry sauce pairs perfectly with the fluffy rice, creating a filling and satisfying meal. Some people also enjoy adding a boiled egg or deep-fried pork cutlet for an extra indulgent touch.

Japanese Curry Rice is the ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for a Sunday dinner. The rich, thick curry sauce, combined with tender vegetables and meat, makes for a flavorful and satisfying dish. It’s the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out, making it an ideal choice for a cozy, relaxed Sunday meal with family or friends.

Sukiyaki (Japanese Hot Pot)

Sukiyaki is a delicious Japanese hot pot dish that combines thinly sliced beef, vegetables, tofu, and noodles cooked in a flavorful, slightly sweet broth. Traditionally enjoyed during family gatherings, it’s a perfect Sunday dish that’s not only comforting but also interactive, as everyone can cook and enjoy the meal together at the table. The savory-sweet sauce enhances the beef, vegetables, and tofu, creating a warm and hearty meal.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb thinly sliced beef (such as ribeye or sirloin)
  • 1/2 block firm tofu, sliced
  • 1 small napa cabbage, chopped
  • 1 cup shiitake mushrooms, sliced
  • 1/2 onion, thinly sliced
  • 2-3 green onions, chopped
  • 100g shirataki noodles (or udon noodles)
  • 2 cups dashi broth
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp mirin
  • 2 tbsp sugar
  • 1 tbsp sake
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 2 eggs (optional, for dipping)

Instructions:

  1. In a hot pot or large skillet, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until softened.
  2. Add the beef slices and cook until browned, then remove and set aside.
  3. In the same pot, add the dashi broth, soy sauce, mirin, sugar, and sake. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
  4. Add the tofu, napa cabbage, shiitake mushrooms, and green onions into the pot. Let it cook for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
  5. Add the noodles to the pot and cook until heated through.
  6. Return the beef to the pot and let it simmer in the broth for 2-3 minutes, ensuring it’s cooked through but still tender.
  7. If desired, crack an egg into a bowl for dipping. Serve the sukiyaki hot and enjoy!

Sukiyaki is a warming dish that brings together all the flavors of Japanese cooking in one pot. It’s best enjoyed with family or friends, as everyone can dip their ingredients into the hot broth and savor the flavors as they cook. The combination of beef, tofu, vegetables, and noodles creates a well-rounded meal.

Sukiyaki is a fantastic choice for a Sunday meal because of its communal nature and comforting, rich flavors. The sweet-savory broth, tender beef, and fresh vegetables make for a delightful combination. Whether served as a main dish or part of a larger meal, it’s the perfect way to unwind and enjoy quality time with loved ones.

Tamagoyaki (Japanese Rolled Omelette)

Tamagoyaki is a popular Japanese rolled omelette known for its fluffy texture and sweet-savory flavor. Often served as part of a bento box or as a side dish, it’s a simple yet delicious meal that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The delicate layers of egg are seasoned with soy sauce, sugar, and mirin, making it a tasty, light meal perfect for a Sunday.

Ingredients:

  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp mirin
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)
  • A pinch of salt

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, whisk the eggs, soy sauce, mirin, sugar, and a pinch of salt until the mixture is smooth.
  2. Heat a tamagoyaki pan or a small rectangular skillet over medium-low heat. Lightly oil the pan with a paper towel.
  3. Pour a thin layer of the egg mixture into the pan and let it cook for about 1-2 minutes until the edges begin to set.
  4. Using chopsticks or a spatula, roll the egg from one end of the pan to the other. Once rolled, push the omelette to one side of the pan.
  5. Add another thin layer of the egg mixture to the pan, lifting the rolled omelette to let the liquid run underneath. Allow it to cook and then roll it again over the first roll.
  6. Repeat this process until all the egg mixture is used, making a rolled omelette with several layers.
  7. Remove the tamagoyaki from the pan and let it cool slightly before slicing it into 1-inch pieces.

Tamagoyaki can be served warm or at room temperature and is commonly enjoyed with steamed rice and miso soup. It’s a versatile dish that can also be included in sushi rolls or bento boxes. Its sweet, savory flavor is balanced with the soft, delicate texture, making it a crowd favorite.

Tamagoyaki is a delightful and comforting dish that’s simple to prepare but delivers big on flavor. Whether you enjoy it as part of a larger meal or on its own, this Japanese rolled omelette is a light yet satisfying option for a Sunday. Its versatility and delicate sweetness make it a dish that can be enjoyed by anyone, from children to adults.

Ramen (Japanese Noodles in Soup)

Ramen is a quintessential Japanese dish that has become popular worldwide. The dish consists of noodles served in a flavorful broth, topped with a variety of ingredients such as sliced pork, boiled eggs, and vegetables. There are many different types of ramen, but all share the comforting combination of rich broth, chewy noodles, and savory toppings. It’s the perfect dish for a cozy Sunday dinner.

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups chicken or pork broth (or store-bought ramen broth)
  • 2 packs fresh ramen noodles (or dried)
  • 1/2 lb pork belly or chicken breast, thinly sliced
  • 2 boiled eggs, halved
  • 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
  • 1/4 cup nori (seaweed), sliced
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp miso paste (optional, for a richer flavor)
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1/2 cup corn (optional)
  • 1/4 cup bamboo shoots (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, bring the chicken or pork broth to a simmer. Add the soy sauce, miso paste (if using), and sesame oil to season the broth, stirring well.
  2. Meanwhile, cook the ramen noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a separate pan, sear the pork belly or chicken slices until cooked through.
  4. To assemble, place a serving of noodles in each bowl. Pour the hot broth over the noodles, ensuring they are fully covered.
  5. Top with slices of cooked meat, a boiled egg half, chopped green onions, corn, bamboo shoots, and a few pieces of nori.
  6. Serve hot and enjoy!

Ramen is incredibly customizable, and you can switch up the toppings based on your preferences. Common additions include mushrooms, spinach, or even spicy chili oil. The beauty of ramen is that you can create a dish that fits your flavor profile, making it a great option for a personalized Sunday meal.

Ramen is a perfect Sunday dish that combines satisfying noodles with a rich and savory broth. It’s the ideal comfort food for a cold or lazy day, and its versatility allows you to create your own perfect bowl. Whether you stick with the traditional toppings or get creative with your additions, ramen never fails to impress.

Donburi (Japanese Rice Bowl)

Donburi is a comforting and versatile Japanese dish where rice is topped with a variety of ingredients, such as chicken, beef, or seafood, all cooked in a flavorful sauce. It’s an easy-to-make meal that combines protein, vegetables, and rice in one bowl, making it a great choice for a Sunday dinner when you want something hearty yet simple.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups cooked Japanese short-grain rice
  • 1/2 lb chicken thighs, sliced into strips
  • 1 onion, sliced
  • 1/2 cup shiitake mushrooms, sliced (or any mushroom of choice)
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp mirin
  • 1 tbsp sake (optional)
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
  • Pickled ginger (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken and cook until browned.
  2. Add the onion and mushrooms to the skillet and cook for another 3-4 minutes until softened.
  3. In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce, mirin, sake, and sugar. Pour this mixture over the chicken and vegetables, stirring to coat.
  4. Lower the heat and let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through and the sauce to thicken slightly.
  5. Pour the beaten eggs over the chicken and vegetable mixture, stirring gently to scramble them into the sauce. Cover the skillet and let the eggs set for 2-3 minutes.
  6. Serve the mixture over a bowl of freshly steamed rice. Garnish with chopped green onions and pickled ginger, if desired.

Donburi is a highly customizable dish, making it perfect for different tastes and preferences. You can swap the chicken for beef (known as Gyudon) or seafood, or even make a vegetarian version with tofu and vegetables. The simplicity and heartiness of Donburi make it a wonderful dish for any Sunday meal.

Donburi is a one-bowl meal that combines protein, vegetables, and rice in a deliciously simple and satisfying way. The sauce adds depth and flavor to the dish, while the tender eggs bind everything together. Whether you prefer chicken, beef, or a vegetarian version, Donburi is a comforting dish that makes for a great Sunday dinner, easy to prepare and enjoyed by all.

Miso Soup with Tofu and Seaweed

Miso soup is a staple in Japanese cuisine, known for its warm, umami-packed broth and its ability to complement a wide variety of meals. This version with tofu and seaweed is simple yet flavorful, making it the perfect side dish for a light Sunday meal. The combination of miso paste, tofu, and seaweed creates a rich, savory soup that’s both nutritious and comforting.

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups dashi stock (or water with dashi powder)
  • 2 tbsp miso paste (white or red)
  • 1/2 block firm tofu, cubed
  • 1/4 cup dried wakame seaweed
  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce (optional)
  • 1 tsp sesame oil (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a medium-sized pot, bring the dashi stock to a simmer over medium heat.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk the miso paste with a small amount of the hot dashi stock until smooth, then add it back to the pot. Stir to combine.
  3. Add the tofu cubes and dried wakame seaweed to the pot, simmering for 2-3 minutes until the tofu is heated through and the seaweed rehydrates.
  4. If desired, add a splash of soy sauce and a few drops of sesame oil to enhance the flavor.
  5. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Miso soup is a perfect companion to any Japanese meal, often served as an appetizer or side dish. The tofu adds protein, while the seaweed contributes a slight brininess that complements the rich miso broth. It’s light yet flavorful, making it a great addition to your Sunday meals.

Miso Soup with Tofu and Seaweed is a wonderfully simple dish that is rich in flavor and umami. It provides a nourishing, light start to a meal without being too heavy. The combination of tofu, seaweed, and miso creates a comforting bowl of soup that is ideal for a calm Sunday afternoon. It’s easy to make and pairs beautifully with other Japanese dishes.

Gyoza (Japanese Dumplings)

Gyoza are Japanese dumplings that are typically filled with ground meat, cabbage, and seasonings, then pan-fried to achieve a crispy bottom while remaining juicy inside. These dumplings are a favorite snack or appetizer in Japanese cuisine, perfect for a Sunday gathering when you want to enjoy a tasty, hands-on dish with friends or family.

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 lb ground pork (or chicken, if preferred)
  • 1/2 cup napa cabbage, finely chopped
  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp ginger, grated
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 tsp rice vinegar
  • 1 package gyoza wrappers (about 20-25)
  • Vegetable oil for frying
  • 1/2 cup water (for steaming)

Instructions:

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground pork, chopped cabbage, green onions, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, and rice vinegar. Mix thoroughly.
  2. Lay a gyoza wrapper flat on a clean surface and place about a teaspoon of the filling in the center.
  3. Wet the edges of the wrapper with a bit of water and fold it in half, pleating the edges to seal the dumpling.
  4. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
  5. Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the gyoza to the pan and fry for 2-3 minutes until the bottoms are golden brown and crispy.
  6. Add 1/2 cup of water to the pan and cover immediately to steam the gyoza for an additional 4-5 minutes, until cooked through.
  7. Serve with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a dash of sesame oil.

Gyoza are versatile and can be filled with various ingredients depending on your preference. Whether you’re making them with pork, chicken, or even a vegetarian version with mushrooms, they’re always delicious. Served with a dipping sauce, these dumplings are a great way to enjoy a fun, interactive meal on a Sunday.

Gyoza is an enjoyable and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a Sunday meal. With their crispy bottoms and tender fillings, these dumplings offer a delightful contrast in textures. The process of folding and pan-frying them makes them an interactive dish that can be shared with friends and family, making them a great choice for Sunday gatherings.

Okonomiyaki (Japanese Savory Pancake)

Okonomiyaki is a savory Japanese pancake packed with delicious ingredients like cabbage, pork, shrimp, and a rich batter. It’s often compared to a pizza because of how customizable it is, allowing you to choose your own toppings. This dish is fun to make and share, making it perfect for a Sunday meal when you want something hearty and interactive to enjoy with others.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup dashi stock (or water)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 cups shredded cabbage
  • 1/2 cup cooked shrimp or thinly sliced pork belly (optional)
  • 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp mirin
  • Vegetable oil for frying
  • Okonomiyaki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • Katsuobushi (bonito flakes), for garnish
  • A drizzle of mayonnaise (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, dashi stock, and eggs, whisking to form a smooth batter.
  2. Add the shredded cabbage, cooked shrimp (or pork), and green onions into the batter and stir to combine.
  3. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease it with vegetable oil.
  4. Pour the batter into the skillet, forming a pancake about 6-8 inches in diameter. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until the bottom is golden brown.
  5. Flip the pancake carefully and cook for another 4-5 minutes, ensuring it’s cooked through.
  6. Once cooked, transfer the okonomiyaki to a plate and drizzle with okonomiyaki sauce and mayonnaise. Garnish with bonito flakes.

Okonomiyaki is often referred to as a “Japanese pizza” because of its versatility. You can customize it with a wide range of ingredients, from pork and shrimp to vegetables or even cheese. The sauce and mayonnaise give it an extra layer of flavor, making it an ideal dish for a Sunday meal shared with loved ones.

Okonomiyaki is an incredibly versatile and fun dish, perfect for a Sunday dinner. The process of creating your own pancake with a variety of ingredients makes it an interactive meal that’s loved by all ages. Whether you stick to a classic version or experiment with toppings, Okonomiyaki is a comforting and satisfying dish that will leave everyone smiling.

Shabu-Shabu (Japanese Hot Pot)

Shabu-Shabu is a Japanese hot pot dish where thinly sliced beef and vegetables are quickly swished in boiling water and served with dipping sauces. This interactive dish is fun to prepare and is perfect for a Sunday gathering. It’s not only a nutritious and light meal but also an enjoyable communal experience, where everyone gets involved in cooking their ingredients.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb thinly sliced beef (sirloin or ribeye)
  • 1/2 napa cabbage, chopped
  • 1/2 onion, sliced thinly
  • 1/2 cup shiitake mushrooms, sliced
  • 2-3 green onions, chopped
  • 2 cups dashi broth (or water with a dash of dashi powder)
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1/2 block tofu, sliced
  • Udon noodles (optional)
  • Ponzu sauce and sesame dipping sauce for serving

Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, bring the dashi broth to a simmer. Add the soy sauce, sesame oil, and rice vinegar to season the broth.
  2. Arrange the beef, cabbage, mushrooms, tofu, and green onions on a platter for easy access during the meal.
  3. Once the broth is simmering, place the beef and vegetables into the pot. Using chopsticks, swish the beef in the broth for just a few seconds until it turns pink.
  4. Remove the cooked beef and dip it in your choice of ponzu or sesame sauce before eating.
  5. Add the vegetables and tofu to the broth and cook until tender. You can also add udon noodles at the end to soak up the flavorful broth.
  6. Serve the shabu-shabu hot, allowing everyone to cook their own ingredients and enjoy the communal experience.

Shabu-shabu is a flexible dish, where the ingredients can be tailored to suit personal tastes. Whether you prefer beef or a vegetarian version, the simplicity of cooking in a hot pot creates a comforting and satisfying meal.

Shabu-shabu is a communal, interactive hot pot dish that’s perfect for a Sunday gathering. The quick cooking process preserves the natural flavors of the beef and vegetables, while the dipping sauces elevate the taste. It’s a healthy and fun way to enjoy a meal together, making it an ideal choice for a relaxed Sunday evening with family and friends.

Teriyaki Chicken

Teriyaki Chicken is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish, where chicken is glazed in a sweet-savory sauce made from soy sauce, mirin, and sugar. The glaze gives the chicken a glossy, caramelized finish that is both delicious and visually appealing. It’s a popular choice for a simple yet satisfying Sunday dinner, served with rice and vegetables.

Ingredients:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp mirin
  • 1 tbsp sake (optional)
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 1/2 tsp grated ginger
  • 1/2 tsp garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil for frying
  • Sesame seeds, for garnish
  • Green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, mirin, sake (if using), sugar, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic to make the teriyaki sauce.
  2. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
  3. Once the chicken is cooked, pour the teriyaki sauce into the skillet, allowing it to simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and glazes the chicken.
  4. Remove from heat and slice the chicken into thin pieces.
  5. Serve the chicken over steamed rice and drizzle with the remaining sauce. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

Teriyaki Chicken is a great dish for a Sunday meal because it’s quick and easy to prepare while offering a rich, comforting flavor. The glaze is sweet, savory, and tangy, making it a favorite among both adults and children. It pairs perfectly with steamed rice and a side of vegetables.

Teriyaki Chicken is a simple yet delicious dish that’s ideal for a Sunday dinner. The tender chicken, coated in a sweet and savory glaze, is always a crowd-pleaser. It’s quick to prepare, and its rich flavors make it a satisfying meal that works well for both busy weekdays and laid-back Sundays.

Note: More recipes​ are coming soon!