Oden Time

With the cold weather settling back in Tokyo, it’s the perfect time to enjoy some warm and comforting oden! This classic Japanese dish, with its simmered daikon, eggs, fish cakes, and more, soaking up all the rich flavors of the broth, is a winter staple that never fails to satisfy. A cozy bowl to keep the chill at bay!

Oden is a beloved Japanese winter dish, a hearty stew of ingredients simmered in a light, savory dashi broth. The components vary but often include daikon radish, boiled eggs, konjac, chikuwa (fish cake), ganmo (fried tofu), and sometimes even octopus or beef tendons. Each item soaks up the broth, creating a flavorful and warming bite that’s perfect for cold weather. Served in a large pot and shared among friends or family, oden embodies comfort and tradition, often enjoyed at street stalls, convenience stores, or at home. It’s a simple yet deeply satisfying dish that captures the essence of winter in Japan.

Oden wouldn’t be the same without the tender daikon radish and perfectly simmered eggs—my absolute favorites! The daikon absorbs all the rich flavors of the dashi, becoming soft, juicy, and incredibly satisfying. The eggs, with their creamy yolks infused with the broth’s umami, are a simple yet unbeatable treat. Together, they’re the heart of what makes oden so comforting and delicious.