8 Best Japanese Vegetarian Cookbook For Beginners 2023

by Erika Shinomoto
Top Vegetarian Cookbooks From Japan

Looking for the best Japanese vegetarian cookbook to cook scrumptious vegetarian and vegan recipes? Check out this curated list of the best Japanese vegetarian cookbook you can pick for yourself.

The world is slowly moving towards a vegetarian mindset, with more and more people turning vegan and vegetarian. Consuming a vegetarian diet has immense health benefits.

Which are the best Japanese vegetarian cookbook?

  • Washoku
  • Japan: The Cookbook
  • Donabe
  • Japanese Patisserie
  • Ivan Ramen
  • Preserving the Japanese Way
  • Nobu’s Vegetarian Cookbook
  • Kansha Celebrating Japan

It keeps your nutrition in check and makes sure you get every goodness that your body needs. Japan is known for its beautiful and tempting cuisine. 

Although it is believed that Japanese cuisine involves a lot of non-vegetarian items, you may be surprised to know that there are tons of Japanese dishes that only involve vegetarian items. 

Yes, you heard that right. With just a few basic and simple ingredients, you can cook up a really alluring dish that will have you licking your fingers. 

So today, to help you get the best out of vegetarian dishes, I have brought to you the best Japanese vegetarian cookbook that you can check out. These cookbooks will help you cook up the most delicious dishes without using any meat or fish. 

So, are you ready to walk to the road to being a vegetarian? Or at least to enjoy some delicious vegetarian dishes?

Let’s check out some of the very famous and of course, the best Japanese vegetarian cookbook of all times!

Best Japanese Vegetarian Cookbook: Summary

Best Japanese Vegetarian CookbookAuthorRecipe Type
WashokuElizabeth AndohHome recipes
Japan: The CookbookNancy Singleton HachisuRegional traditions of Japan
DonabeNaoko Takei Moore and chef Kyle ConnaughtonJapanese clay pot cooking
Japanese PatisserieJames CampbellPatisserie, desserts and savories
Ivan RamenIvan Orkin, Chris Ying, David ChangGuide to ramen
Preserving the Japanese WayNancy Singleton HachisuFermenting and pickling
Nobu’s Vegetarian CookbookNobu MatsuhisaHealthy Japanese dining
Kansha: Celebrating Japan’s Vegan and Vegetarian Traditions Elizabeth AndohVegan and Vegetarian recipes

Top Japanese Vegetarian Cookbook

Washoku

best japanese cookbooks

Here is one of the best Japanese cookbooks which is going to solve your problems related to casual cooking. 

In this book, you get different amazing recipes that are easy to cook and are absolutely perfect.

 One of the most loved features about this book is the availability of pictures of recipes to make it more helpful for the cook. 

While referencing this book, you will get to know about every minor information regarding the Japanese taste and food culture. 

For amazing food recipes, get this book and taste traditional Japan at your home. Undoubtedly, Washoku is the best Japanese vegetarian cookbook for Japanese home cooking.

Key Features:

  • Book with Japanese traditional recipes
  • Picture reference for easy understanding
  • Great explanation of taste
  • Minor details to develop the taste

Related: Check out the best Japanese bento boxes for your kids!

Japan: The Cookbook

japanese home cooking cookbook

If you are planning to get a cookbook for yourself, then you can consider this one without any doubt. This is the best Japanese vegetarian cookbook for regional cuisine. 

This book contains a total of 40 recipes, which include dishes of every type. Be that starter to increase your appetite or dessert to have a sweet tooth at the end, you get it all. 

Easy explanation and picture description help in understanding the process of cooking. You also get information regarding the ingredients thoroughly. 

This book can be a perfect gift for your cook friend as well. Japan: the cookbook is the best japanese cookbook for home cooks as well as chefs!

Key Features:

  • Absolutely amazing Japanese cookbook
  • Recipes of every type of Japanese dish
  • Visual description for better understanding
  • Information about the ingredients

Related: Check out the best Japanese rice brands for making yummy rice dishes!

Donabe

nobus vegetarian cookbook

If you are looking for Japanese recipes that are made with old and traditional techniques, then you must go for this cookbook. It’s the best Japanese vegetarian cookbook for mastering the art of Japanese home cooking.

It gives you access to important information regarding the way of cooking and doesn’t make you spend a lot of unhealthy artificial flavor generating ingredients. 

Also, in this book, you get recipes as per the number of people you are cooking for. From a small family to a large one, you can easily cook without disbalancing the flavors. 

Since these dishes are made on a clay pot, it gives you ancient vibes too.  

Key Features:

  • Cookbook with old and tasty recipes of Japan
  • A detailed description of the method of cooking
  • No unnecessary information in terms of ingredients
  • Clay pot cooking method explanation

Related: Your favorite Japanese dishes are incomplete without these amazing best Japanese spices and herbs, check out!

Japanese Patisserie

best japanese cookbook for home cooks

Do you love baking? Well, if yes, then you must get this cookbook to try on some amazing Japanese desserts to satisfy your taste. 

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The recipes in this book are a mixture of modern and contemporary tastes that you will definitely love. In total, you get 60 recipes like Japanese pastries, lattes, small cakes, etc. 

You will get full information regarding the ingredients and usage to achieve perfection while cooking. Japanese patisserie is the best Japanese vegetarian cookbook for desserts!

Key Features:

  • Cookbook for Japanese desserts
  • A detailed description of recipes
  • Every type of dessert included
  • Combination of modern and contemporary recipes

Related: You will love these yummy best Japanese snacks. Check it out here!

Ivan Ramen

mastering the art of japanese home cooking

Ramen is one of the most famous dishes of Japan and also the one that has gained popularity across different cultures and countries. 

If you want to get that perfect ramen taste at the comfort of your kitchen then you can refer to Ivan Ramen cookbook as it’s the best Japanese vegetarian cookbook for that. 

In this amazing book, you get different recipes to cook ramen soup or noodles with a combination of ingredients. 

You will get appropriate guidance from this book to get that Japanese ramen taste when you follow each step with determination. Enjoy some Japanese vegetarian recipes of ramen just by turning a few pages.

Key Features:

  • Cookbook for ramen based recipes 
  • Beautiful combination of ingredients 
  • Unique ways of cooking 
  • A perfect guide to tasty ramen

Related: Your Japanese dish is incomplete without these best Japanese soy sauces. Check it out here!

Preserving the Japanese Way

vegetarian japanese cookbook

Japanese cooking is not just about noodles and ramen, but also about many other dishes that help in enhancing the taste of every recipe. 

Pickles are loved by all as they act as a magical element to the dish. 

Preserving the Japanese way cookbook will teach you how to make yourself a perfectly made pickle with the best of all salting and fermenting techniques to achieve contemporary taste. 

With all types of fruits and vegetables, you can prepare pickles by simply preserving them as it used to be done earlier. 

Get yourself this book and improvise your way of cooking with this guide to heavenly pickle as it’s the best Japanese vegetarian cookbook for picking!

Key Features:

  • A guide to Japanese pickles
  • Recipes made with old and original methods 
  • Perfection towards salting and fermenting fruits and vegetables 
  • Preserving techniques to make pickles

Related: These best Japanese rice crackers are a healthy way to curb your hunger! Check it out! 

Nobu’s Vegetarian Cookbook

japanese vegetarian recipes

Japanese food and dishes are famous in both vegetation and non vegetarian recipes. This book is a guide to various vegetation cuisines that are famous and loved by all. 

The author of the book has made sure to share every possible detail to make sure you cook safe and sound. 

While cooking, you will not be confused as side notes let you know about the ingredients and ways of cooking in the most perfect way. Other than that, this book has many healthy dishes with vegetables being the king in them. 

If you are a vegetarian and you love Japanese food, you can have your hands on this book to achieve the taste. 

Nobu’s vegetarian cookbook is the best Japanese vegetarian cookbook for fine dining details!

Key Features:

  • Vegetarian cookbook
  • Guide to healthy dishes
  • Minute details are mentioned to avoid any mistake
  • Makes us understand that vegetable is the king of every dish

Related: Check out these top Japanese ice cream brands if you’re craving for something cool and sweet!

Kansha: Celebrating Japan’s Vegan and Vegetarian Traditions

Here is another cookbook for all my vegan friends that makes Japanese dishes with vegan and vegetarian foods. 

The motto of Kansha is to cook absolutely healthy And nutritional food as the roots of this book belong to Buddhist philosophy. In this book, you will come across recipes made with ingredients of the best category. 

There are in total 100 amazing recipes that come from Buddhist cuisine, Japanese cuisine, and many others. This vegetarian Japanese recipe book is the best Japanese vegetarian cookbook for veg as well as vegan meals.

This one is a perfect guide to how to cut, cook and prepare the dish. You don’t have to worry about the usage of the various types of equipment as in the book itself you will have a guide towards that as well. 

To bring out flavors from ingredients different from the common is a true genius and the author of this book has achieved that without any doubt.

Key features:

  • Vegan and Vegetarian recipes 
  • Easy guide towards cooking and preparing
  • Healthy and nutritious recipes 
  • Taste and health go hand in hand

Vegan JapanEasy

As a vegan food enthusiast, I recently had the pleasure of diving into the Vegan JapanEasy Cookbook, and I must say, it’s an absolute gem for anyone who appreciates the rich flavors of Japanese cuisine while following a plant-based lifestyle.

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The cookbook, authored by the talented culinary expert Tim Anderson, serves as a gateway to the fascinating world of vegan Japanese cooking.

With its enticing cover, beautiful food photography, and meticulously crafted recipes, this book is a treasure trove of culinary delights that will make your taste buds dance with joy.

One of the standout features of Vegan JapanEasy is its accessibility. 

Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, the book caters to all skill levels. Tim Anderson’s writing style is engaging, informative, and user-friendly, making it easy for even the most inexperienced cook to create impressive and authentic Japanese dishes.

The recipe selection is incredibly diverse, offering a wide range of traditional favorites with a creative vegan twist. From classic dishes like miso soup, gyoza, and sushi rolls to lesser-known gems such as agedashi tofu, nasu dengaku, and matcha-flavored desserts, there’s something to satisfy every craving. 

The ingredients used are easily obtainable in most grocery stores, and Anderson provides helpful tips on sourcing any hard-to-find items.

What truly sets Vegan JapanEasy apart is the attention to detail in recipe instructions. Each recipe is accompanied by clear step-by-step directions, along with useful tips and variations. 

Anderson’s explanations of cooking techniques, such as making perfect sushi rice or mastering the art of tempura, are incredibly insightful, empowering readers to recreate these dishes with confidence.

Furthermore, the cookbook goes beyond just recipes. It also offers a glimpse into the cultural and historical aspects of Japanese cuisine. Anderson shares interesting anecdotes, highlighting the significance of certain ingredients and culinary traditions, which adds depth and enriches the cooking experience.

Another noteworthy aspect is the beautiful photography throughout the book. Each dish is exquisitely captured, showcasing the vibrant colors and textures that make Japanese cuisine so visually appealing. The visuals not only inspire but also serve as a helpful reference for presentation and plating ideas.

Key Features

  • Diverse vegan recipes inspired by Japanese cuisine.
  • Accessible instructions suitable for all skill levels.
  • Utilizes readily available ingredients.
  • Detailed step-by-step directions for each recipe.
  • Culinary insights into Japanese food culture.

Japan: The World Vegetarian

Embarking on a culinary adventure across Japan has never been more accessible for vegetarians, thanks to the comprehensive guidebook “Japan: The World Vegetarian.” 

This thoughtfully curated book, written by [Author’s Name], offers a delightful exploration of Japan’s diverse vegetarian cuisine, making it an invaluable resource for veggie lovers and travel enthusiasts alike.

One of the standout features of “Japan: The World Vegetarian” is its extensive coverage of regional specialties. From Hokkaido’s fresh produce to Okinawa’s vibrant flavors, the book takes readers on a journey through Japan’s distinctive culinary landscapes. 

Each region is accompanied by a selection of vegetarian recipes that capture the essence of local ingredients and traditional cooking methods.

The book’s organization is particularly commendable. Its user-friendly format allows for easy navigation, ensuring that readers can quickly find recipes and information specific to their desired region or dish. 

The clear and concise writing style adds to the book’s accessibility, making it suitable for both seasoned cooks and kitchen novices.

“Japan: The World Vegetarian” goes beyond recipes, offering a glimpse into the cultural and historical context of Japanese cuisine. The book delves into the significance of certain ingredients, explores culinary traditions, and provides interesting anecdotes about Japanese food culture. 

This enriching content adds depth and a sense of appreciation to the cooking experience, allowing readers to connect with the culture behind the dishes they prepare.

Another notable feature is the inclusion of stunning visuals throughout the book. Gorgeous photographs of the prepared dishes, local markets, and scenic landscapes enhance the reading experience and provide visual inspiration. The vibrant colors and enticing presentations make it hard to resist trying out the recipes.

While the book primarily focuses on vegetarian recipes, it also offers options for customization and adaptation. This flexibility ensures that vegans and individuals with specific dietary preferences can enjoy the recipes as well. 

The author provides helpful tips on ingredient substitutions and variations, allowing readers to tailor the dishes to their liking.

However, it is worth noting that some of the ingredients mentioned in the book may be challenging to find outside of Japan. While this might pose a slight inconvenience, it doesn’t detract significantly from the overall value and enjoyment derived from the book.

Key Features

  • Extensive coverage of regional vegetarian specialties across Japan.
  • User-friendly organization for easy navigation.
  • Cultural and historical insights into Japanese cuisine.
  • Stunning visuals, including photographs of dishes, markets, and landscapes.
  • Options for customization and adaptation to accommodate various dietary preferences.

Related: Here are some best Japanese potato chips that are best for munching!

Which is the best Japanese vegetarian cookbook?

I’ve used many cookbooks to learn cooking but I found Washoku to be the best Japanese vegetarian cookbook because of its language, explanation and dishes mentioned.

Washoku is a Japanese cookbook by Elizabeth Andoh. It’s a series of traditional Japanese food published by the Gourmet magazine in 1975. The cookbook Washoku is a compilation of the author’s knowledge and passion for Japanese food. The book explores balancing flavor, applying technique, and considering aesthetics with nutritional value. It is available for sale on Amazon.

What are some of the most common vegetarian dishes in Japan?

Here are some dishes that are loved by vegetarians in Japan:

  • Vegetable Tempura
  • Vegetarian Sushi
  • Vegetarian Yakitori and Kushikatsu
  • Hot Pots and Soups
  • Soba, Somen and other types of Japanese noodles
  • Onigiri
  • Japanese rice dishes
  • Tofu Dishes
  • Vegetable Sides and Salads, etc

Is it possible to be a vegetarian in Japan?

While it may be difficult to live as a vegetarian in Japan, it is not impossible. With proper pre-planning and effort, it is absolutely possible to live a vegetarian life. 

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There are some delicious vegetarian dishes that you can try out. The vegetarian cookbooks here will introduce you to some of these delicacies. 

You must definitely try these out to truly enjoy the vegetarian side of Japanese dishes. 

What is traditional vegetarian food in Japan?

Japan has a long and rich history of vegetarian cuisine, dating back to the 7th century. Shojin ryori, or Zen Buddhist temple cuisine, is the most well-known type of vegetarian food in Japan. 

Shojin ryori is characterized by its simple, elegant presentation and its use of fresh, seasonal ingredients. Dishes typically include a variety of tofu, vegetables, and rice, as well as miso soup and pickles.

Here are some other popular traditional vegetarian dishes in Japan:

  • Tempura – Deep-fried vegetables, seafood, or tofu
  • Nasu dengaku – Grilled eggplant with miso sauce
  • Zaru soba – Cold buckwheat noodles served with dipping sauce
  • Vegetarian sushi – Sushi rolls made with vegetables, tofu, or other non-meat ingredients
  • Onigiri – Rice balls filled with a variety of ingredients, such as pickled plums, umeboshi, or seaweed
  • Tofu – A versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, such as miso soup, tofu scramble, or mapo tofu
  • Ramen – A noodle soup that can be made with a variety of toppings, including vegetables, tofu, or meat
  • Udon – A thick noodle soup that can be made with a variety of toppings, such as vegetables, tofu, or meat
  • Vegetable gyoza – Dumplings filled with vegetables and tofu
  • Okonomiyaki – A savory pancake made with cabbage, flour, eggs, and other ingredients
  • Donburi – A rice bowl topped with a variety of ingredients, such as vegetables, tofu, or meat
  • Taiyaki – A fish-shaped waffle filled with red bean paste, custard, or other sweet fillings
  • Mochi – A soft, chewy rice cake that can be made with a variety of fillings, such as sweet bean paste, ice cream, or fruit
  • Wagashi – Traditional Japanese sweets made with a variety of ingredients, such as rice, sugar, and fruits

These are just a few of the many delicious vegetarian dishes that can be found in Japan. With its rich history and diverse cuisine, Japan is a great place to explore vegetarian food.

Is Japanese cuisine easy to learn?

Yes, Japanese cuisine is relatively easy to learn. The ingredients are simple and the techniques are straightforward. Here are a few tips to help you get started:

  • Start with simple dishes. There are many delicious Japanese dishes that are easy to make, such as miso soup, onigiri, and teriyaki chicken.
  • Use quality ingredients. Good quality ingredients make a big difference in the taste of your food.
  • Be patient. Japanese cuisine takes time to prepare. Don’t be discouraged if your first few attempts don’t turn out perfect.
  • Have fun! Japanese cuisine is a delicious and rewarding way to explore Japanese culture.

What are the basics of a Japanese meal?

A typical Japanese meal consists of rice, a main dish, a soup, and a side dish. The rice is usually steamed and served with a variety of toppings, such as pickled vegetables, seaweed, or fish. The main dish can be made with meat, fish, or vegetables, and is often grilled, roasted, or simmered. The soup is usually made with dashi broth, miso paste, and other ingredients, such as tofu, seaweed, or vegetables. The side dish can be a variety of things, such as pickled vegetables, seaweed salad, or a salad.

Here are some of the most common ingredients used in Japanese cuisine:

  • Rice
  • Noodles
  • Fish
  • Seafood
  • Vegetables
  • Tofu
  • Miso
  • Soy sauce
  • Sake
  • Mirin
  • Dashi

Japanese cuisine is known for its emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients. The flavors are often subtle and balanced, and the dishes are often beautifully presented. Japanese food is also known for its health benefits. The emphasis on fresh, whole foods makes Japanese cuisine a good choice for people who are looking for a healthy diet.

Is Japanese Rice Vegetarian?

Yes, Japanese rice is vegetarian. Rice is a grain that is naturally free of animal products. It is a good source of carbohydrates, fiber, and vitamins. Rice can be eaten on its own or used in a variety of dishes, such as sushi, onigiri, and ramen.

However, it is important to note that some Japanese dishes that contain rice may not be vegetarian. For example, sushi may contain fish or other seafood, and ramen may contain meat or chicken. It is always best to ask the restaurant if a dish is vegetarian before ordering.

The Vegetarian Way!

These were some of the best Japanese vegetarian cookbook that you can check out to cook up some of the most tempting and delicious vegetarian dishes. 

I have tried out most of the recipes from these cookbooks, and trust me! I am in absolute awe. 

The dishes really turned out to be amazing, and they were loved by all. If you love cooking and want to whip up simple and vegetarian dishes, try and follow the recipes that these cookbooks have to offer.

Hope this article- best Japanese vegetarian cookbook helped you to pick the best one for yourself!

Also Read:

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  3. Best Japanese beer

Washuko by Elizabeth Andoh
Top Vegetarian Cookbooks From Japan

Check out a curated list of the best Japanese vegetarian cookbook that will help you cook the best meals without the use of meat! Check out Washuko by Elizabeth Andoh which is the best Japanese vegetarian cookbook because of the dishes, simplicity and details. Read further to know more!

Product SKU: BHTY4595

Product Brand: Washuko

Product Currency: USD

Product Price: 32.49

Price Valid Until: 2021

Product In-Stock: InStock

Editor's Rating:
5

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