27+ Delicious Japanese Breakfast Recipes to Start Your Day Right

Have you ever wondered what a traditional Japanese breakfast looks like? If you think breakfast is just a quick cup of coffee and a piece of toast, you might be missing out on something truly special. Imagine savoring a bowl of steaming rice, fresh fish, and colorful pickles in the morning.

.

1. Classic Tamagoyaki

Classic Tamagoyaki Recipes

3-Ingredient Simple Tamagoyaki Thumbnail

3-Ingredient Simple Tamagoyaki from Just One Cookbook.

Cooking Time: 15 min. Rating: 5. Ingredients: Gluten free, omelette, eggs, sugar.

Home-Style Tamagoyaki (Japanese Rolled Omelette) Thumbnail

Home-Style Tamagoyaki (Japanese Rolled Omelette) from Serious Eats.

Cooking Time: 15 min. Rating: 5. Ingredients: Soy sauce, grated daikon radish, dashi, eggs, paper towel.

Tamagoyaki Japanese omelette Thumbnail

Tamagoyaki Japanese omelette from Japan Centre.

Cooking Time: 15 min. Rating: 4. Ingredients: Soy sauce, eggs, sugar.

Source: Google.com

This fluffy, sweet Japanese omelet is as delightful to eat as it is to look at. Tamagoyaki, made by layering and rolling eggs, is a favorite in many Japanese households. Start by whisking eggs together with a touch of soy sauce for flavor. Heat a non-stick pan, add a little oil, and pour in a thin layer of egg mixture.

As it cooks, gently roll the egg towards you, adding more mixture to cook and roll again until you have a beautiful, layered omelet. Slice it into bite-sized pieces and enjoy the melt-in-your-mouth texture. It’s perfect served alongside rice and pickled vegetables.

Tamagoyaki can be enjoyed warm or cold, making it versatile for any breakfast time. You’ll love how easy it is to perfect this technique with a little practice. Trust that your guests will be asking for seconds!

2. Nattō with Rice

Nattō With Rice Recipes

Natto and Rice: 6 Ways Thumbnail

Natto and Rice: 6 Ways from Yuki’s Kitchen.

Natto With Rice Thumbnail

Natto With Rice from The Spruce Eats.

Cooking Time: 5 min. Rating: 4.2.

Natto Gohan (Natto over Rice) 納豆ご飯 Thumbnail

Natto Gohan (Natto over Rice) 納豆ご飯 from Ellie Likes Cooking -.

Source: Google.com

If you’re looking to try something truly unique, nattō just might surprise you. This fermented soybean dish is famous in Japan for its stringy, gooey texture and powerful health benefits. Simply serve natto over hot, steamed rice and drizzle with soy sauce or a touch of mustard for an extra kick. It’s rich in protein and probiotics, promoting good gut health and overall well-being.

You might find the texture a bit different at first, but don’t judge until you’ve tasted it! Many people swear by nattō’s invigorating properties and even consider it a superfood. Give it a chance; your taste buds may thank you for it!

3. Miso Soup

Miso Soup Recipes

Zuppa di miso Thumbnail

Zuppa di miso from Ricette GialloZafferano.

Cooking Time: 50 min. Rating: 4.

Homemade Miso Soup with Tofu Thumbnail

Homemade Miso Soup with Tofu from Just One Cookbook.

Cooking Time: 20 min. Rating: 4.8.

15-Minute Miso Soup with Greens and Tofu Thumbnail

15-Minute Miso Soup with Greens and Tofu from Minimalist Baker.

Cooking Time: 15 min. Rating: 4.8.

Source: Google.com

Warm, comforting, and packed with flavor, miso soup is a staple for breakfast in Japan. Made by dissolving miso paste in dashi (Japanese soup stock), you can customize it with your favorite ingredients like tofu, seaweed, and green onions. It’s as simple as simmering some dashi, adding the miso paste to taste, and stirring in your chosen extras.

Miso soup is not only delicious but offers a nourishing start to your day. The fermented miso is great for digestion, making it an excellent breakfast addition. Serve it alongside rice and a small side of grilled fish for a complete morning meal!

4. Japanese Rice Balls (Onigiri)

Japanese Rice Balls (Onigiri) Recipes

Onigiri (Japanese Rice Balls) Thumbnail

Onigiri (Japanese Rice Balls) from Just One Cookbook.

Rating: 4.8.

Japanese Rice Balls Thumbnail

Japanese Rice Balls from The Spruce Eats.

Cooking Time: 35 min. Rating: 4.4.

Japanese Rice Balls Thumbnail

Japanese Rice Balls from Weelicious.

Cooking Time: 1 h 10 min. Rating: 5.

Source: Google.com

Who says breakfast needs to be complicated? Onigiri are rice balls that are easy to make and even easier to customize. Simply take cooled, seasoned rice and shape it into a triangle or oval. Fill the center with savory pickled plums, grilled salmon, or even a sprinkle of furikake for added flavor. Wrap it in a sheet of nori for an effortless, portable meal!

Onigiri are not just for breakfast; they are great for lunch or snacks as well. Pack them up for outdoor adventures or enjoy them at home. The combination of flavors is truly delightful!

5. Grilled Fish

Grilled Fish Recipes

Grilled Fish Steaks Thumbnail

Grilled Fish Steaks from Allrecipes.

Cooking Time: 1 hr 20 min. Rating: 4.7. Ingredients: Halibut, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, black pepper.

Simple Seasoned Grilled Fish Thumbnail

Simple Seasoned Grilled Fish from Lana’s Cooking.

Cooking Time: 5 min. Rating: 5. Ingredients: Old bay seasoning, lemon, fish fillets, olive oil.

Spicy Grilled Fish Thumbnail

Spicy Grilled Fish from Food.com.

Cooking Time: 15 min. Rating: 5. Ingredients: Catfish fillets, soy sauce, lemon juice, cayenne pepper, green onions.

Source: Google.com

Nothing says a hearty Japanese breakfast quite like a portion of grilled fish. Whether you choose salmon, mackerel, or another favorite, this dish is not only packed with omega-3 fatty acids but also delivers a savory kick. Simply season your fish with salt and grill until it’s cooked to perfection, with crispy skin and tender flesh.

Pair it with steamed rice and miso soup for a meal that feels complete. This dish is simple to prepare but feels special enough to impress anyone at your table. Plus, the aroma of grilling fish will have everyone rushing to the kitchen!

6. Chawanmushi (Savory Egg Custard)

Chawanmushi (Savory Egg Custard) Recipes

Chawanmushi (Savory Steamed Egg Custard) Thumbnail

Chawanmushi (Savory Steamed Egg Custard) from Metropolitan Market.

Ingredients: Soy sauce, chicken broth, eggs, green onion.

Chawanmushi (Japanese Savory Steamed Egg Custard) Thumbnail

Chawanmushi (Japanese Savory Steamed Egg Custard) from Just One Cookbook.

Cooking Time: 50 min. Rating: 4.7. Ingredients: Chicken tenders, fish cake, ginkgo nuts, soy sauce, shimeji mushrooms.

Chawanmushi (Japanese savory egg custard) Thumbnail

Chawanmushi (Japanese savory egg custard) from Caroline’s Cooking.

Cooking Time: 15 min. Rating: 5. Ingredients: Soy sauce, shiitake mushroom, cooked shrimp, carrot, egg.

Source: Google.com

This delicate steamed egg custard dish is a true comfort food in Japan. Chawanmushi is made by whisking eggs with dashi broth and adding ingredients like shrimp, mushrooms, and ginkgo nuts for texture and flavor. Steaming it gently ensures a silky, smooth custard that is both rich and light.

It may look fancy, but chawanmushi is surprisingly simple to make and can be served warm or chilled. This dish brings a touch of elegance to breakfast and is perfect for special occasions or when you want to pamper yourself.

7. Rice Porridge (Okayu)

Rice Porridge (Okayu) Recipes

Japanese Rice Porridge (Okayu) Thumbnail

Japanese Rice Porridge (Okayu) from Just One Cookbook.

Cooking Time: 1 h 5 min. Rating: 4.7.

Okayu (Japanese Rice Porridge) Thumbnail

Okayu (Japanese Rice Porridge) from The Spruce Eats.

Cooking Time: 1 h 10 min. Rating: 4.3.

Instant Pot Japanese Rice Porridge (Okayu) Thumbnail

Instant Pot Japanese Rice Porridge (Okayu) from Pressure Cook Recipes.

Cooking Time: 55 min. Rating: 5.

Source: Google.com

If you’re in need of warmth and comfort, Japanese rice porridge, or okayu, is your answer. Made by simmering rice slowly in water, the result is a creamy, cozy bowl of goodness. You can add toppings like umeboshi (pickled plum), green onions, or even a raw egg to elevate the flavor and nutrition.

Okayu is perfect for those chilly mornings or when you’re feeling under the weather. Not only does it soothe your soul, but it’s also incredibly easy to prepare. After all, a warm bowl of rice porridge can truly be a feel-good breakfast!

8. Pickled Vegetables (Tsukemono)

Pickled Vegetables (Tsukemono) Recipes

Japanese Pickles Thumbnail

Japanese Pickles from Funky Asian Kitchen -.

Summer Vegetable Tsukemono Recipe (Japanese Quick Pickling Method) Thumbnail

Summer Vegetable Tsukemono Recipe (Japanese Quick Pickling Method) from Japanese Taste.

Japanese pickles - tsukemono Thumbnail

Japanese pickles – tsukemono from Pickled Plum.

Source: Google.com

Add a dash of color and crunch to your breakfast table with tsukemono, or Japanese pickles. These delightful, tangy vegetables are made using a variety of methods, such as salting or fermenting. Common choices include radishes, cucumbers, and eggplant, which brighten up your plate and add a zing to your meal.

Packing your breakfast with these vibrant pickled vegetables not only boosts the flavor but also adds valuable nutrients to your meal. Plus, they keep well, so you can always have them ready for breakfast or as a side for lunch or dinner!

9. Japanese Pancakes (Soufflé Pancakes)

Japanese Pancakes (Soufflé Pancakes) Recipes

JAPANESE SOUFFLE PANCAKES Thumbnail

JAPANESE SOUFFLE PANCAKES from GialloZafferano Blog.

Cooking Time: 13 min. Rating: 5.

Japanese Soufflé Pancakes Thumbnail

Japanese Soufflé Pancakes from Qeleg.

Cooking Time: 50 min. Rating: 5.

Japanese Soufflé Pancakes Thumbnail

Japanese Soufflé Pancakes from NYT Cooking – The New York Times.

Cooking Time: 30 min. Rating: 4.

Source: Google.com

Fluffy, jiggly, and downright scrumptious, Japanese soufflé pancakes are a delightful twist on breakfast. Made with egg whites whipped to soft peaks for that cloud-like consistency, these pancakes are cooked slowly to achieve a beautiful height. Serve them with maple syrup, whipped cream, or fresh fruit to make your morning extra special.

They may take a bit more effort than regular pancakes, but the delicious results are worth it. Indulge in these fantastic pancakes on a Sunday morning for an impressive brunch that friends will be asking for again and again!

10. Daifuku (Stuffed Rice Cake)

Daifuku (Stuffed Rice Cake) Recipes

Daifuku Mochi - Japanese Sweet Rice Cakes Thumbnail

Daifuku Mochi – Japanese Sweet Rice Cakes from Wandercooks.

Rating: 4.8.

Daifuku Mochi Thumbnail

Daifuku Mochi from Just One Cookbook.

Rating: 4.8.

Mochi Filled with Sweet Red Bean (Daifuku) Thumbnail

Mochi Filled with Sweet Red Bean (Daifuku) from Asian Recipes At Home.

Source: Google.com

End your breakfast leisurely with a sweet touch of daifuku. These chewy rice cakes stuffed with sweet red bean paste or other fillings, like fresh strawberries, are delightful to enjoy any time of day. The soft texture pairs beautifully with a cup of green tea for a perfect breakfast treat.

While they may seem like a dessert, daifuku can also be a lovely addition to your morning menu. Your taste buds will rejoice, and you’ll feel satisfied to tackle the day ahead!

These vibrant Japanese breakfast recipes offer a delightful way to start your day with flavor and nourishment.

Was this article helpful?
YesNo