Do You Know Japanese Raw Eggs Culture?
Raw eggs are frequently used in Japanese cuisine. For many Japanese, it plays an important role in their diet.
However, many non-Japanese may feel uncomfortable eating raw eggs. In this article, we will introduce in detail the raw egg culture in Japan.
Contents
Reason that Japanese eats Raw Eggs
First, let us consider why raw eggs are eaten in Japan.
Raw eggs are highly nutritious and rich in fat and protein. The yolk contains phospholipids, which are said to be effective in beautifying the skin and improving brain function.
Egg whites are popular among athletes and bodybuilders because they contain the amino acids necessary for muscle building.
How does Japanese enjoy eating Raw Eggs
The Japanese also enjoy the flavor of the raw egg itself.
When raw eggs are heated, the flavor is lost, but by eating them raw, one can enjoy the true taste of fresh eggs.
However, because raw eggs may contain pathogens such as salmonella and cholera, warnings against eating them are sometimes issued in Japan.
However, health problems caused by pathogens in raw eggs are very rare. This is due to the thorough sanitary control of them in Japan, and eating them does not pose a health hazard.
It is also important to pay attention to the freshness and hygiene of eggs when eating them.
Dishes used Raw Eggs in Japan Culture
Raw eggs are an essential ingredient in such classic Japanese dishes as oyakodon (chicken and egg bowl), gyudon (beef bowl), yakisoba, okonomiyaki, takoyaki, and udon noodles.
They are also commonly used in Western dishes such as hamburgers and steaks made with raw meat mixed with raw egg.
Tamagokakegohan
One of the most typical dishes using raw eggs is “tamago kakegohan” (rice topped with an egg).
In tamagakegohan, a fresh egg is placed on top of freshly cooked rice and served with a dash of soy sauce.
In addition to soy sauce, you can also add mayonnaise, green onions, or other ingredients of your choice to the top of the egg on top of the rice.
We hope you will enjoy various versions of egg on rice when you eat egg on rice in Japan.
Things to keep in mind when eating Raw Eggs
When eating raw eggs, care must be taken to ensure hygiene.
In Japan, it is common practice to thoroughly clean the outside of the egg, but it is important to make sure that the contents are sanitary when the egg is cracked open.
In addition, restaurants that serve dishes with raw eggs are required by law to limit their eggs to fresh ones, so you can eat them with peace of mind.
Although raw eggs are believed to have health benefits, pregnant women, people with weakened immune systems, the elderly, infants, and people with allergies should consider the risks associated with eating them and avoid them.
Comments of The writer
Japan’s raw egg culture is a food culture where the health benefits and flavors can be enjoyed.
Japanese raw egg dishes are gaining popularity overseas as well, and exposure to a new food culture will further deepen your interest in Japan.
