Japanese Dude Food Set to be 2018’s Food Trend

Trend experts from the Waitrose Food and Drink Report predict that Japanese ‘dude food’ is set to be the big food craze of 2018. While Japanese foods, such as miso and ramen, have been popular dishes worldwide for some time now, these lighter and healthier meals are being left behind in favour of decadence. The indulgent trend sees ultra-calorific versions of traditional Japanese dishes served up, making the once healthy diet of Japan more like junk food.

Initially starting as a social media craze with Western dishes, the demand for dude food has spread to many restaurants around the world. Common dishes in America, for example, include using alternative food items for the bun of a burger, such as bacon-wrapped macaroni and cheese, grilled cheese or doughnuts! Anything and everything gets deep fried, from spaghetti to Oreos, and then smothered in melted cheese for good measure.

So how does Japanese food become suitable for ‘dudes’? Some popular offerings include plates stacked high with deep-fried calamari, Yakitori crispy chicken skewers, or omelettes wrapped in bacon. Others serve up wagyu beef burgers, deep-fried tofu and sakura blossom milkshakes. These meals are inspired by the Izakaya bars in Japan, which provide a casual dining experience, with hearty meals for a low price. This change comes along with busy daily schedules taking over, with many people working longer hours and having less time to make food themselves.

It is predicted that more Izakaya style bars will be opened in the UK this year, with an increasing number of people attempting to grab a quick meal on their way home from work, as they would with a meal deal for lunch. With the after-work crowd in mind, these rich and filling dishes are perfect for soaking up the alcohol, so many are accompanied by a pint of beer.

If you are looking to cook your own Japanese dude food, then remember that whacky flavours, overindulgence and supersized portions are key here! Check out the range of Japanese foods available at Oriental Mart to stock up on all of the ingredients you need to get started!