I wasn't able to to write a blog since I got pre-occupied with work and other responsibilities. But I knew I had to write my last blog before the year ends. So here it is... my last blog in my series of blogs focusing of Japanese treats (although there's one product that might seem different... anyway, i'll include it because it's part of the stuff my good friend, H.A., sent me). Again, thanks a million for the package, H.A. Let me start with these two cups below. These are actually seafood soup. Just pour hot water and then you get to have some good food. I also love the fact that they contain less calories, consuming these didn't make me feel guilty from my dietary routine.
I was really intrigued by the shells that came in the cups. I was thinking they wouldn't taste fresh. But I was in for a surprise. They tasted great despite being considered instant food.
The taste of the soup was nice. It was light and refreshing. I think these would be a great cure for hangover too... hehehe!
The next food I'd like to talk about is Curry Meshi. If I'm not mistaken, 'meshi' is related with rice. I love curry so this was an instant hit to me. The green colored cup was a milder curry flavor while the gold/brown one was spicier and stronger in flavor.
A cup contained dehydrated ingredients like rice, vegetables, and curry roux. You just have to add boiled water and everything's done. It was really delicious... too bad, this product isn't available in the Philippines.
This is Furikake - a kind of Japanese seasoning topped on rice. When I opened the pack, the first impression I had was that it was made from dried fish. And I was actually right, I did some research and my palate was confirmed.
What I liked about it was that it wasn't too salty as what we Filipinos are used to with our dried fish. It had the right amount of saltiness and it does enhance the flavor of the rice if you mix it in.
The next product might be an exception from the Japanese treats that I've been writing about. Although I really felt that I had to share my thoughts about it because I really liked this product. This is actually facial tissue. My friend sent this because she knew I loved going on road trips on my motorcycle.
As indicated (Ice-type), using it on your face was very soothing and refreshing. It was so comforting and cool. It was a good companion during my trips esp. when I had stopovers. I'm not sure if this is available in local stores but I do hope it is.
These are miso soup. Other than rice, miso soup is a staple food (I think) among the Japanese. The red one had different kinds of vegetables like lotus and carrots while the blue one had tofu.
Unfortunately, I forgot to take a photo of the soup form already but let just describe how miso soup tastes. It has a bit of a strong flavor and I think it needs getting used to - at least for me, you need an acquired taste to really enjoy it. I did like it esp. when I placed my home-made chilli garlic oil.
The last on the list would be Risotto. If my knowledge serves me right, Risotto is actually an Italian dish. But I guess the Japanese has incorporated it to their food culture and has made it to better suit their preference. The left one had salmon bits while the right one had crab bits.
As what you can see in the photo, it seems that I've put more water than need but actually it was to my advantage because I ate this to cure a hangover... hehehe! And it was really good! You can also see the the calorie content each pack has... really advantageous for those on a diet. and it's instant too - perfect for people on the go.
As I close this blog entry, let me just say that I really had fun trying all the different kinds of Japanese products and I really can't get enough of it. I think I would never have a problem living in Japan. I love everything Japanese. If only I had the opportunity. Oh well, I'm just happy I had a taste of Japan. Thanks once again to my dear friend, H.A. Let me greet everyone a very and prosperous new year!