Otsumami: Japanese small bites & appetizers

More than 70 recipes for moreish Japanese small plates and bites, designed to be enjoyed alongside a drink, plus tips on presentation and menu planning.



Otsumami is the Japanese term given to snacks and simple dishes, designed to be eaten alongside a drink. (‘Tsumamu’ means to grab something with your fingers or chopsticks so any foods that can be eaten easily in this way came to be known as ‘otsumami’.) They are common at izakaya bars, pubs and at house parties in Japan — even if you are at home having a snack with your evening drink, you are still enjoying otsumami! There are countless delicious flavour pairings to be enjoyed and included here are small bites and dishes to tempt everyone, from existing devotees of Japanese food to new-comers keen to discover more. Popular ingredients such as dashi, ponzu, miso, soy, teriyaki and more, all make an appearance in a myriad of mouth-watering morsels including dips, pickles and salads, gyoza and tempura, sushi and sashimi, plus beautifully presented meat, fish, vegetarian and vegan plates. Also included is a basic guide to Japanese beverages, and deliciously inventive cocktail recipes.