Tokyo is often referred to as one of the biggest foodie paradises in the world, and Japanese cuisine is renowned throughout the globe, so it might be very shocking to learn that some of the most famous Japanese dishes are not actually originally from Japan. Like language and culture, food is always evolving from the blending of communities, and these dishes are examples of innovations born from international exchange. Salmon Sushi Sushi is believed to have originated in China between the 5th and 3rd centuries BCE, as a technique to preserve fish by heavily coating it in salt.
Salmon sushi, specifically, is actually a pretty new invention, and came to Japan thanks to Norway. Until fairly recently, raw salmon was considered unsanitary in Japan because of fears of parasites; the fish would typically be enjoyed thoroughly cooked. In the 1980s, however, Norway was faced with a massive surplus of salmon, and managed to convince people in Japan to eat it as a sushi topping.
The Norwegian fishing industry spent years working to rebrand salmon and marketed it to Japanese people with the fresh feeling of the Norwegian fjords. Over time, the country’s perception of salmon changed, and salmon sushi and sashimi became relished for its buttery, light and soft taste. Ramen Competing with maybe only sushi, ramen is one of the most iconic Japanese foods.
From the Michelin-winning bowls to the humble Cup Noodles, ramen has become a huge symbol of Japanese food culture. But before it became t.