In Japan: Not Sushi, But Curry

When we talk about Japanese cuisine, the first thing that would pop-up in our head is sushi. However, this idea was challenged when I was in Japan for my short visit. As a traveller, I take full advantage of the local cuisine. I am not talking about the best restaurants that are usually in the guide books 'must eat' list, but the ones that never make it to any top lists. These restaurants/cafes are usually the ones which are situated on street corners and a lot of the times do not even have names.
So… back to Japanese cuisine. When I travel, I believe I spend 60 percent of my time getting lost and aimlessly walking around; 30, eating; and rest, doing rest of the things I'm supposed to do. What I discovered in Yokohama was Japanese fast food. It is a real time saver and "fast food" literally. Outside of these fast food shops, there is a machine that lets you select the particular dish you want. After you have selected your dish, you put your money in the machine, and it provides you with a ticket. You walk into the restaurant, give them your ticket and get your pre-ordered food. Simple.
The first time I ordered Japanese curry rice, I was rather sceptic. Coming from a curry culture, I always compare curries from other cultures to the ones my mother cooks. I believe all Bangladeshis do this. My Japanese friend insisted that I try the Japanese-style curry rice. Either I was severely starved, or the curry rice was unbelievably flavoursome! And I would settle for the latter, because I had the traditional curry rice at least 12 times during my five days in Japan.
So, this curry rice I am blabbing about, I did my research to find out more about its origins. Apparently, curry was introduced to Japan during the Meiji era (1868-1912) by the British, during which time India was also under British rule. This made me jump to the conclusion that the Japanese curry rice -- which could be labelled as a national dish -- originated in South Asia. How amazing is that?
After discovery of the origin of this fine dish, I got to the next step of curiosity. Though I am no chef, I am always curious to know how something that I loved so much is cooked. As much as I wanted to talk to the people who were preparing this remarkable dish, the language barrier really made it difficult. Thankfully, I had my Japanese friend as my personal translator. As I asked around, I found out that the curry rice contains various vegetables. It is usually a thick stew of potatoes, carrots, onions and the meat of your choice. I surely tasted pepper in the curry, as it was spicy.
I felt like I discovered a gem in those hidden alleyways in Japan. Take the word of this hungry traveller: get lost and try something new. You might find not only something new, but also discover something about yourself.

Shariqa Habib is a student of Political Science and Communication at Saint Louis University Madrid. When she is not studying or sleeping, she likes to travel and eat anything and everything! She can be reached at [email protected]