Tuesday’s Cupful: Background on Japanese Yakisoba

Japanese Fried Noodles

This dish is the dryer alternative to Japanese Ramen Noodles.  Expect NO BROTH!  It’s also a cousin to Chinese Chow Mien.   Soba is Japanese for “buckwheat.”  The buckwheat noodles are usually fried with meat and veggies.  The Japanese people like adding thinly sliced pork.  Meanwhile, Okinawans prefer ham or luncheon meat.  Cabbage, carrots, and bell pepper make up the trio of veggies used in authentic Japanese Yakisoba.  The noodles are seasoned with a sweeter and thicker brown sauce that’s reminiscent of oyster sauce. Yakisoba is a national dish with it being a staple dish during lunch hour among Japanese workers.