Jan. 29 - One reason Ann and I enjoy Tokyo is the outstanding variety of food. While Tokyo boasts many restaurants with Michelin stars, we prefer more ordinary dining experiences where we can enjoy good food and fine hospitality in a relaxed setting. Sometimes Japanese friends ask me about our favorite American foods. I thought I might share with you some favorites from my home state of California.
Japanese food
Japan's influence on American cuisine is exploding, with chefs in all kinds of restaurants using Japanese ingredients and techniques. The words sushi, edamame and nori have even entered the English language. Also, chefs at Japanese restaurants in the U.S. have adapted Japanese cooking styles to American tastes and often use American ingredients. One of my favorite American variations on Japanese food is the "California roll," which uses avocados in a rolled sushi made from California rice. Here is one such recipe.
Fusion Cuisine
Many California chefs combine cooking styles from various cultures with fresh local ingredients to present familiar foods in new ways. I enjoy eating Italian pasta and also Chinese food, so this recipe for pasta with California almonds, ginger and broccoli makes a healthy and refreshing meal.
California Wine
Although I do not drink a lot of alcohol, I think a nice glass of wine can enhance a dinner. Many regions in the United States produce wine, but I have always been partial to wine from my native state. This link has a lot of information about California wine.
Fresh vegetables
I love fresh salad, especially in the summertime when one can find wonderful fresh fruits and vegetables in the marketplace. Rather than providing you with a recipe for my favorite salad, I hope that my readers will post some of your favorite salad recipes that I can try at home.
Until next time,
Jim
My name is Nathan and I recently graduated from the University of Oklahoma. I was wondering if you had any tips for someone thinking about applying to be a Foreign Service Officer, and more specifically what to expect if applying for Consular career track? I really enjoy your blog, and have always dreamed of going to Japan, so thank you for letting me live vicariously through your adventures.
Thanks for your comment - it's always great to hear from someone interested in the Foreign Service. Although it's not specifically required, I highly recommend gaining some experience overseas, like studying abroad, before taking the exam. Proficiency in a foreign language is not a prerequisite either, but that's a very important skill for any aspiring Foreign Service Officer. To learn more about what to expect as a Consular Officer, take a look at the State Department website, under the careers section. At the same site you can sign up for a Foreign Service mentor, an officer who can give you more specific advice.
- Jim
Thank you for your nice comments on food. I, too, am a Californian. I grew up on a family owned and operated farm in Kern County between Wasco and Shafter. I`ve been in the Fukuoka area for about 25 years. I share your ideas on wine. A good glass at dinner accents the food and refreshes the body and soul. Best regards.
Sincerely, Phil
Thanks for the kind note. I used to spend summers in Kern county visiting my aunt and I always loved the fresh fruits and vegetables from roadside stands.
- Jim
I'm surprised that among your favorite foods wasn't a listing for jam made from apricots grown in Lodi, California.
