02/12/2024

Oshogatsu 2024

Happy New Year!

2023 came and went and here we are a brand new year and ready to go in 2024!

I am so grateful to continue to share these Japanese and Japanese American traditions from the Fujitaki family! Every year things get a little more dialed in and I have more time for small details and fine tuning recipes and presentation, which is really helpful.

Osechi Ryori is a very special culinary opportunity that I am so happy to continue and to enjoy every year with the ones I love. This year we had a full house, lots of laughter, music, and fun together. The perfect way to bring in the new year with so much love and joy. To spend this time cooking and to see Bachan enjoy these foods is really such a privilege for us all.

So this is the 2024 spread! I hope everyone had a wonderful few months into the new year and we make the most of every moment we have together.

Osechi Ryori

Tazukuri (Candied Sardines)

Symbolizes a bountiful harvest

Kamaboko (Fish Cake)

Symbolizes celebratory colors

Gobo (Kinpira Gobo and Sesame Gobo)

Symbolizes strength and stability

Ebi (Shrimp)

Symbolizes longevity

Konbu (Seaweed)

Symbolizes joy and good omens

Renkon (Lotus Root)

Symbolizes luck in future prospects

Takenoko (Bamboo Shoots)

Symbolizes advancing in life

Satoimo (Japanese Taro)

Symbolizes lasting prosperity

Konnyaku (Yam cakes)

Symbolizes bonds and relationships

Five-Sided Carrot and Daikon
Shiitake Mushroom
Shisito Pepper
Umeboshi
Tsukemono

Sushi and Inari
Ahi Sashimi
Korokke (Potato & Meat Croquette)
Chicken Katsu
Teriyaki Chicken
King Crab
Rice
Sake Poached Shrimp
Fresh Fruit
Mochi and Butter Mochi
Spam Musubi
Wonton and Edamame

Inari
Chashu

Ozoni
Japanese New Year Mochi Soup

Kagami mochi “mirror rice cake” represents harmony in the family and mochi’s stretchy texture symbolizes hopes for longevity