The Real Japanese Izakaya Cookbook

The Real Japanese Izakaya Cookbook by Makiko Itoh and Wataru Yokota explores the world of Izakaya cooking, which is all about enjoying hearty and flavourful Japanese food with drinks and friends at your local hole-in-the-wall hangout. Similar to tapas or pub food, izakaya fare ranges from tasty bar snacks to substantial salads, stews, grilled meats, and seafood dishes — all made fresh with minimal fuss and maximum flavour — and served alongside a chilled glass of beer or sake.

These include standards like Yakitori Chicken Skewers, Crispy Gyoza, and Grilled Wagyu Beef with Shiso. Vegans and vegetarians are also well catered to with dishes like Daikon Salad with Yuzu Dressing, Chargrilled Fava Beans, and Baked Tofu with Ginger Sauce. Chef and author Wataru Yokota adds his own unique twists to signature Japanese recipes, like Miso-Simmered Pork and Grilled Mackerel with Plum Sauce.

Yokota's recipes are simple and quick, aimed at working folks who don't have a lot of time to cook but love trying new and interesting flavours. This book provides clear step-by-step photos and instructions for each dish. The introduction gives guidelines for selecting, pouring, and mixing drinks to complement the recipes — and even how to quickly grill and smoke meat to give it that authentic izakaya taste!