Food Tour: Taste Osaka like a local

Takoyaki is a popular Japanese street food consisting of small, savory batter-filled balls made with diced octopus, tempura scraps, pickled ginger, and green onions. These ingredients are mixed into a batter made from flour, eggs, and dashi (a Japanese broth), then cooked in a special takoyaki grill pan, which gives them their signature round shape. The takoyaki balls are crispy on the outside and soft and gooey on the inside, where the octopus adds a tender, savory bite. They are typically served hot, drizzled with takoyaki sauce (a sweet, tangy sauce similar to Worcestershire), topped with Japanese mayonnaise, bonito flakes, and dried seaweed. This delicious snack is a favorite in Osaka, where it is enjoyed at street food stalls and casual eateries.

Purin is a classic Japanese dessert similar to caramel flan or crème caramel. It’s made from a simple combination of eggs, milk, sugar, and vanilla, creating a smooth, silky custard. The pudding is traditionally cooked gently in a water bath, giving it a delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture. The dessert is topped with a layer of amber-colored caramel syrup that adds a rich sweetness and a slight bitterness, balancing the creamy custard beneath. Purin is often served in small cups or jars, and it’s a popular treat found in many Japanese cafes, convenience stores, and restaurants, loved for its lightness and nostalgic flavor.

Nikuman is a Japanese steamed bun typically filled with a savory mixture of ground pork, onions, and seasonings. The dough is soft, fluffy, and slightly sweet, providing a perfect contrast to the rich, juicy filling inside. The pork filling is often seasoned with soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and sometimes a dash of sugar, creating a flavorful, tender bite. Nikuman is commonly eaten as a snack or quick meal, especially in colder months, and can be found in convenience stores, street vendors, and specialty shops across Japan. Its warm, comforting texture and savory taste make it a popular choice for many.