Japanese Cuisine-Inspired Event Menu
When you're planning a special event of any kind, deciding on what type of food to serve your guests is probably at the top of your list. Consider creating a Japanese cuisine-inspired menu, which combines both healthy and flavorful foods, and will appeal to party-goers of all ages.
Japanese cuisine is versatile in that it features a variety of both meat- and vegetarian-based dishes, as well as dairy-free options, to please everyone on your guest list. The cuisine focuses on fresh, seasonal ingredients, such as produce and herbs, which will make your party menu full of flavor.
A Japanese-inspired menu is appropriate for any type of special event or occasion, including kids' and adults' birthday parties, holiday celebrations, family reunions, anniversary and graduation soirees, bridal and baby showers, and wedding receptions. It will also work for both elegant and casual, as well as indoor and outdoor events.
Depending on your event-planning budget, the size of your guest list, and the amount of time you have to spend in the kitchen, you can either make the Japanese-inspired cuisine yourself or hire a caterer or your favorite restaurant to make the meals for you. If you're hiring an outside source like a traditional Japanese restaurant, be sure to place your order days or even weeks in advance.
Here are some event menu ideas to get you started:
1. Gyoza
Traditional Japanese gyoza are delicate pan-fried dumplings filled with a variety of minced Asian vegetables and meat such as pork or shrimp. You can spice the dumplings up with ingredients such as ginger, kimchi, or peppers, or keep them on the milder side, depending on your preference.
Since they are small, have the restaurant or catering company make enough for each guest to have at least two. If you're making them yourself, start with soft dumpling wrappers and get adventurous with the ingredients. Gyoza works well as appetizers, or as small plate items when combined with other Japanese delicacies, such as miso soup or tempura.
2. Sushi
Sushi is ideal party food, as guests can easily mix and mingle as they eat a variety of rolls. To please all of the party-goers, provide a mix of basic sushi rolls, such as avocado and California, as well as more adventurous types.
Arrange the sushi rolls on a buffet-style table, along with wasabi, ginger, and soy sauce, and allow guests to create their own perfect plates. You can also include hand rolls or sushi burritos in the mix if you'd like.