As a self-proclaimed foodie and advocate for conscious living, I’ve always been intrigued by the diverse culinary landscapes around the world. But it wasn’t until I stumbled upon the incredible vegan offerings at Saint Marc that my perceptions of what plant-based cuisine could be were truly transformed.
Uncovering the Hidden Gems of Japanese Vegan Cooking
My journey into the world of vegan Japanese food began when I took on the “mission frickin’ impossible” of spending a month as a vegan in Japan, exploring beyond the typical tourist trail. With the help of a friendly café owner in Bangkok, I was armed with the Kanji script to politely ask for vegan dishes and a stash of homemade energy bars to fuel my adventure.
As I ventured off the beaten path, I discovered a treasure trove of culinary delights that challenged my preconceptions about Japanese cuisine. At a cozy Izakaya in Matsumoto, I met the charming Itoya-san, who proudly showcased her hand-written menu of vegan Japanese specialties. Over a satisfying meal of black soybeans, wild leeks, and warm homemade sake, she shared the fascinating history behind her plant-based offerings.
Itoya-san explained that during Japan’s Edo period, the traditional diet was largely plant-based and meat-free, influenced by the country’s Buddhist and Shinto practices that promoted compassionate eating. It was only in the late 1800s, during the Meiji era, that the consumption of meat and seafood became more widespread, as the Japanese emperor publicly embraced this shift to emulate the dietary habits of Western Europeans.
“Rumor had it that eating meat would let the Japanese become big, buff, and blonde like the Europeans.”
Despite this dietary evolution, the Japanese people still maintain the ritual of saying “ita daki mas” before every meal – an expression of gratitude towards the animals and plants whose lives were sacrificed to nourish them.
Discovering the Delights of Vegan Sushi and Bento Boxes
As I explored Japan further, I was delighted to discover that sushi doesn’t necessarily mean fish. In fact, many sushi establishments offered vegan sushi featuring ingredients like cucumber, pickled radish, wild mountain vegetables, natto (fermented soybeans), and various types of seaweed. I also learned that avocado sushi was actually a California creation, not a traditional Japanese dish.
One of the most memorable vegan culinary experiences was the bento box – a beautifully-crafted, wholesome and colorful portable meal that often graced the tables of train travelers. My personal favorite was the vegan bento box from the Evah Macrobiotic Dining shop at Hakata Station in Fukuoka, which offered a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Beyond sushi and bento boxes, I encountered a wide array of vegan-friendly Japanese dishes, including:
- Miso soup (with a vegetable-based broth)
- Shojin Ryori (a traditional Zen Buddhist vegetarian meal)
- Soba and udon noodles (customized with vegan broths and toppings)
- Oyaki (soba flour dumplings stuffed with veggies, fruits, or bean paste)
- Curry dishes at the CoCo Ichibanya Curry House chain
Each of these dishes showcased the creativity and ingenuity of Japanese chefs in adapting traditional recipes to cater to plant-based diners. I was constantly amazed by the depth of flavor and the expert blending of textures in these vegan Japanese specialties.
Expanding Horizons: Vegan Cuisine Beyond the Typical
My vegan adventure in Japan wasn’t limited to the well-trodden tourist destinations. In the countryside of Kansai and the remote island of Yakushima, I uncovered even more hidden gems of vegan Japanese cuisine.
At a shabushabu restaurant in the basement of an unassuming building, I indulged in a spicy seaweed and soy milk broth with glass noodles, yuba (tofu skin), and an array of fresh vegetables – a true feast for the senses. And in the Hiroshima region, I stumbled upon a local eatery serving up delectable vegan okonomiyaki (Japanese savory pancakes).
These experiences reinforced the notion that vegan options in Japan extend far beyond the typical. With a little research, creativity, and determination, it’s entirely possible to embark on a culinary journey that showcases the true breadth and depth of Japanese plant-based cuisine.
Lessons Learned and Tips for Vegan Travelers
As a vegan traveler in Japan, I quickly learned that a bit of preparation and a willingness to navigate language barriers were essential. By carrying a written note explaining my dietary requirements and what I could and couldn’t eat, I was able to overcome most communication challenges and enjoy an abundance of vegan delights.
I also found that learning a few basic Japanese phrases, such as “watashi wa begetarian des” (I am a vegetarian) and “oishikatta des” (that was delicious), went a long way in expressing gratitude and building rapport with the locals.
One of the most valuable lessons I learned was the importance of adaptability. When faced with restaurants that couldn’t accommodate my vegan needs, I simply requested they prepare dishes using the ingredients I could eat, such as tofu, vegetables, soy sauce, and seaweed. This approach often resulted in unexpected and delightful culinary discoveries.
Embracing the Vegan Lifestyle: A Life-Changing Journey
As I reflect on my vegan adventures in Japan, I realize that this experience has not only expanded my culinary horizons but has also profoundly impacted my overall lifestyle. The wholesome, plant-based dishes I encountered, coupled with the reverence for nature deeply embedded in Japanese culture, have inspired me to adopt a more conscious and sustainable approach to living.
I find myself yearning for the creative bento boxes, the aesthetically-presented meals, and the delicate flavors that I discovered during my time in Japan. This vegan journey has ignited a fire within me, fueling a deeper appreciation for the power of food to nourish both the body and the soul.
So, if you’re a fellow vegan or simply someone curious about exploring the wonders of plant-based cuisine, I encourage you to embrace the challenge and embark on your own culinary adventure. With a little preparation, open-mindedness, and a spirit of exploration, you too can uncover the life-changing delights of vegan Japanese cuisine, just as I did.
And who knows, your journey might just lead you to the doorstep of Saint Marc, where you can indulge in a mouthwatering array of vegan dishes that will forever transform your perception of what’s possible in the world of plant-based dining.
