Walk around a Japanese Grocery Store with Us!

When you're exploring an amazing Japanese grocery store, especially one in a bustling area like Sky Tree town, it's not just about seeing new things – it's about discovering the ingredients that bring true Japanese flavors to life! Many of us search for that authentic taste we experience in Japanese restaurants, and finding the right soy sauce and teriyaki can make all the difference. I've spent a lot of time poring over labels, and I'd love to share what I've learned about choosing high-quality, authentic brands. First, let's talk about soy sauce (Shoyu). The queries I often see are about finding traditionally brewed, high-quality options with transparent sourcing. While Kikkoman is a household name, did you know they have many varieties? For true authenticity, look for 'honjozo' (本醸造) on the label, which means 'traditionally brewed.' This indicates it’s made through a natural fermentation process using just soybeans, wheat, salt, and water, without chemical shortcuts. Brands like Yamasa and Marunaka are also highly regarded for their rich, complex flavors. When checking ingredients, fewer is definitely better! Some mainstream brands might use additives or adjusters, so always prioritize those with a simple, clear list. For those avoiding gluten, Tamari is a fantastic alternative – it's typically made without wheat or with very little. Kikkoman (Traditional Varieties): Pros: Widely available, excellent quality for their 'honjozo' lines, reliable flavor. They do offer transparency on some premium products regarding ingredient sourcing. Cons: Their most basic, cheapest versions might not offer the same depth as artisanal brands, and ingredient sourcing isn't always detailed for every single product. Yamasa / Marunaka: Pros: Often considered staples by Japanese chefs, known for deep, balanced flavors and traditional brewing methods. Cons: Can be slightly harder to find than Kikkoman outside of dedicated Japanese grocery stores. Next up, teriyaki sauce. This is where many people get tripped up, as store-bought teriyaki can vary wildly. The best teriyaki sauces are made from natural ingredients: soy sauce, mirin (sweet rice wine), sake (rice wine), and sugar, often with ginger and garlic. Many commercial teriyaki sauces, however, contain high-fructose corn syrup, artificial flavors, and thickeners. Look for brands that prioritize natural components and avoid overly long ingredient lists. Homemade Teriyaki: Pros: Ultimate control over ingredients, fantastic fresh flavor, and you can tailor sweetness/savoriness. Cons: Requires a bit of effort and having all the right ingredients on hand. Kikkoman (select teriyaki lines) / San-J (Gluten-Free options): Pros: Convenient, some varieties (especially Kikkoman's 'less sodium' or 'marinade' lines) use decent ingredients. San-J is great for those looking for gluten-free options with good flavor. Cons: You must check the ingredient list carefully, as some Kikkoman teriyaki products contain corn syrup. San-J can be pricier. When you're browsing the aisles of a Japanese Grocery Store like the one we visited near Sky Tree, always check the labels for allergens. Japanese products are generally good about clear labeling. Don't be afraid to try smaller, local brands if you see them, as these often offer unique, artisanal qualities. These authentic sauces are perfect for marinating chicken for a delicious karaage (like the 'むね肉の塩唐揚げ' or fried chicken breast you might see in the deli section) or as a dipping sauce for menchi katsu (minced cutlet). Happy shopping and cooking!