Dodging Natsubate

The Japanese have a term of the feeling of low energy and loss of appetite which comes during the stiflingly hot and humid summers (think, sauna) in the island country: natsubate. Since the term was coined around the eighth century, the Japanese have used food to prevent or beat natsubate in the form of cold and refreshing meals.

With this summer being especially hot here on the East Coast, although less humid, we’ve been craving cold dishes to stave off the heat. Below are three dishes we’ve been happy with recently. Recipes coming soon.

Cold Soba Noodles Topped with Uni, Nori and Scallions with a Soy-Mirin-Dashi Sauce

Cold Ramen Salad with Juicy Tomatoes, Arugula and Sweet Corn with a Shio Koji Dressing

Cold Udon Noodles with Shredded Chicken Tossed in a Chinese-style Sauce, with Thinly-Sliced Cucumbers

Tags | cold summer dishes, japan, natsubate, ramen salad, soba, udon