Japanese cuisine is a type of food and ingredients that is cooked in a specific way based on the culture and tradition of
Japan. The traditional cuisine of Japan (
washoku or 和食) is based on rice with
miso soup and other dishes, with an emphasis on seasonal ingredients. The side dishes often consist of fish, pickled vegetables, and vegetables cooked in broth. Fish is common in the traditional cuisine. It is often grilled, but it may also be served raw as
sashimi or in
sushi. Seafood and vegetables are also deep-fried in a light batter as tempura.