Okinawa, known for its stunning beaches and unique history, also boasts a vibrant food culture that reflects the island’s blend of local and international influences.
Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for more adventures, these eight dishes offer a true taste of Okinawan cuisine.
1. Okinawa Soba Noodle
This isn’t your typical Japanese soba! Okinawa Soba features wheat noodles in a flavorful broth made with pork and bonito.
Topped with soft braised pork belly and fresh scallions, it’s a comforting and iconic dish beloved by locals and tourists alike.
2. Goya Champuru
Goya Champuru is a stir-fry that combines bitter melon (goya), tofu, pork, and eggs.
The dish’s slightly bitter flavor is perfectly balanced by the rich and savory notes of the other ingredients, making it a staple of Okinawan home cooking.
3. Rafute
Rafute is Okinawa’s take on braised pork belly, slow-cooked in soy sauce, sugar, and local rice liquor (awamori). The result is a tender, flavorful dish that melts in your mouth and pairs perfectly with steamed rice.
4. Jushi (Okinawan Mixed Rice)
Jushi is a hearty rice dish cooked with pork, vegetables, and dashi stock.
Often served at celebrations, it’s a comforting meal that highlights Okinawa’s love for flavorful, simple cooking.
5. Chinsuko
Chinsuko is a traditional Okinawan shortbread cookie made with flour, sugar, and lard.
With its crumbly texture and lightly sweet flavor, it’s a popular souvenir and a delightful treat with tea or coffee.
6. Tebichi (Stewed Pork Trotters)
Tebichi is a dish of pork trotters slow-cooked until tender in a savory broth. Rich in collagen, it’s both a flavorful and nutritious option that’s said to benefit skin health.
7. Irabu Soup (Sea Snake Soup)
For the adventurous eater, Irabu Soup is a must-try.
Made with smoked sea snake, pork, and kelp, it’s a traditional dish that showcases Okinawa’s connection to the sea and its culinary heritage.
8. Sata Andagi (Okinawan Donuts)
Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, these Okinawan-style donuts are made with flour, sugar, and eggs. They’re a favorite at festivals and markets, offering a sweet taste of the island.
9. Beni Imo: Purple Sweet Potatoes
Beni Imo, Okinawa’s famous purple sweet potatoes, are not just a staple ingredient but a cultural icon. Known for their vibrant color and naturally sweet taste, they’re used in a variety of dishes, from desserts like tarts and ice cream to savory sides.
Their rich, creamy texture and health benefits make them a must-try for any food lover visiting the island.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Okinawa Soba?
Okinawa Soba is a traditional noodle dish unique to Okinawa. It features wheat noodles in a pork and bonito-based broth, topped with tender braised pork belly, fish cake, and scallions. It’s a comforting and flavorful meal loved by locals and visitors alike.
What is Goya Champuru?
Goya Champuru is a classic Okinawan stir-fry dish made with bitter melon, tofu, pork, and eggs. Known for its distinct bitter flavor, it’s a staple of Okinawan home cooking and offers a unique taste of the island’s culinary culture.
What is Beni Imo?
Beni Imo, or Okinawa’s purple sweet potatoes, are celebrated for their vibrant color and natural sweetness. They are used in a variety of dishes, from creamy desserts like tarts and ice cream to savory sides, making them a versatile and iconic ingredient in Okinawan cuisine.
Experience the Unique Flavors of Okinawa
Okinawan cuisine is more than just food—it’s a window into the island’s culture and history.
From the comforting flavors of Okinawa Soba to the adventurous taste of Irabu Soup, these dishes provide a culinary journey you won’t forget. Make sure to try these local favorites on your next trip to Okinawa!
Okinawa Song “Shima Uta”
“Shima Uta” reflect the tragedies of war and the hope for peace.
