Teppanyaki is a style of Japanese cooking where ingredients are grilled on a cast iron hot plate called a teppan. It is a popular form of Japanese dining around the world, often associated with high-end restaurants and skilled chefs.
The preparation of teppanyaki is a culinary experience in itself, with chefs often performing acrobatics with their utensils and juggling ingredients while they are cooking. Guests often sit around the stovetop to watch the dishes being prepared live and interact with the chef.
Typical teppanyaki ingredients include fresh vegetables, rice, seafood, chicken, beef, pork and noodles. Chefs use precise cutting and cooking techniques to prepare the ingredients in small pieces, seasoning them with garlic, ginger and special sauces. The dishes are then served directly on the hot plate to maintain heat and flavor.
Teppanyaki is also known for its unique sauces and condiments, such as soy sauce, teriyaki sauce, Japanese mayonnaise and sesame mixes. The sauces are often prepared on the spot by the chef and add a distinctive flavor to the dishes.
Teppanyaki is a fun and interactive dining experience, ideal for group outings and special occasions. High-end teppanyaki restaurants often offer a luxurious atmosphere, with skilled chefs and artistic presentation of dishes. In Japan, okonomiyaki restaurants allow you to make your own food using a built-in teppan at the table. The teppan Yaki is the equivalent of our western plancha.
