How to eat ochazuke | Simple but surprising tips from renowned maker, Nagatanien
Ubiquitous throughout Japan, ochazuke is a simple, comforting dish made by pouring a broth such as ocha (green tea) or dashi (Japanese soup stock) over rice. Instant versions are immensely popular throughout Japan, but raise a polarizing question – do you make it with tea, or hot water? For this article, we asked Nagatanien, a manufacturer synonymous with ochazuke for their “Ochazuke Nori”, to share some basic advice about the smart way to enjoy this quintessential Japanese food.
【Advised by】Nagatanien（永谷園）
Table of Contents
What is Nagatanien’s ochazuke?
The first ochazuke product sold by Nagatanien is “Ochazuke Nori”. (Nori is a type of seaweed, also known as laver.) This long-selling favorite marked its 70th anniversary in 2022.
Each packet consists of granulated seasonings such as salt, sugar, matcha (green tea powder), and kombu (kelp) powder, along with the toppings of nori and arare (tiny rice crackers). In fact, we are told that the proportion of ingredients remains unchanged over all these years! The secret to the long-lasting popularity of this beloved product lies in the nori itself.
The nori used in this ochazuke has three major characteristics:
- Toasted flavor and deep green color
- Does not fall apart, even when steeped in hot water
- Firm and weighty
In fact, we are told that specialized employees inspect and select which nori to use by eye.
Do you make Nagatanien “Ochazuke Nori” with hot water? Or tea?
“Ochazuke Nori” already contains matcha tea powder, and is designed to be prepared by simply adding hot water. In this regard, the correct method is to use hot water.
However, some people prefer the even richer tea flavor from adding various types of Japanese tea, such as ocha (green tea), genmaicha (green tea with puffed whole rice), and hojicha (roasted green tea).Yet another style is to add cold water, creating a cold dish of “hiyashi ochazuke”. This light and refreshing twist is perfect for warding off summertime fatigue.
We learned that versatile ochazuke can be customized to suit your mood, or the seasons.
How does Nagatanien recommend to enjoy their ochazuke for best flavor?
We also asked Nagatanien to recommend how to prepare ochazuke for its very best flavor. Their advice was:
- Select a rice bowl slightly larger than what you would normally use.
- Add one serving (100 grams) of rice to the bowl, and pour the contents of the ochazuke packet on top.
- Pour 150 milliliters of hot water over the top – ideally the water should be as hot as possible.
In case you might forget, you can always find these ratios on the back of the packet.
When is the best time to enjoy Nagatanien “Ochazuke Nori”?
Naturally, the best timing is any time you have a craving for ochazuke! But, Nagatanien particularly recommends this dish in the morning.
The reason is that ochazuke helps to replenish water and sodium lost through sweat while you sleep. And, no matter how busy your morning might be, it’s easy to find time to pour some hot water over a bowl of rice.
An inviting bowl of ochazuke can also help your body and mind to wake up, so it’s recommended as a morning dish for adults and children alike.
Customizing your instant ochazuke is easy and rewarding!
Let’s take a look at three twists on commonplace ochazuke!
①Salmon ochazuke with fragrant butter
Try adding a pat of butter to your ordinary “Sake Ochazuke” (Salmon Ochazuke), then pour hot water over top as usual. Salmon and butter are a match made in heaven!
②Whet your appetite with curry spiced ochazuke
This variation is perfect for summer, when spices are all the more appealing. Start with “Ochazuke Nori”, adding curry powder, fried onions, and corn before pouring hot water over. You can also add cheese for a stretchy, even richer version.
③Healthy chicken ochazuke
Let’s try a health-conscious ochazuke customization. Starting with “Ochazuke Nori”, simply add shredded chicken filet and corn before pouring hot water over. For extra flavor and aroma, try finishing with a swirl of olive oil.
Ochazuke is wonderful on its own, and can be transformed to suit all manner of appetites with simple twists such as these. Try adding your favorite ingredients… and please have a happy Ochazuke Day!
* The published information is current as of May 2023. Prices and other details are subject to change.
In 2022, Nagatanien marked its 70th anniversary of business since commencing sales of their classic “Ochazuke Nori”. Over the years, in following their corporate vision of “Aji-Hitosuji” (Naturally Excellent Taste), Nagatanien has always applied creativity and ingenuity while striving to invent new values and develop new markets to suit the needs of the times. Nagatanien has developed a diverse range of products beloved by all ages, including ochazuke (rice in broth), furikake (rice toppings), instant miso soup, seasonings for side dishes, and noodle products.
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