The Embassy of Japan in India, in partnership with Le Cordon Bleu (GD Goenka University) and Ajinomoto Co., Inc. Co, recently held a two-day culinary masterclass called “Experience Japan: Explore Well-being through Food Culture” as part of their continued dedication to culinary excellence and cultural exchange. Creating tasty and nutritious food was the main goal of this masterclass, which aimed to foster the sharing of culinary skills between Indian and Japanese cuisines.

Food that is both nutrient-dense and flavorful is becoming more and more popular in India. This growing interest in using food to promote wellbeing fits in perfectly with the Washoku, or Japanese eating style. The traditional Japanese dietary culture known as “washoku” places a strong emphasis on maintaining a harmonious balance between the ingredients, how they are prepared, and how they are presented. It entails preparing meals that are aesthetically pleasing and healthily balanced by utilizing seasonal foods. As a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, Washoku is renowned for its use of umami, the fifth basic taste, to organically enhance flavors and make nutritious meals more palatable and gratifying. It also reflects the values of respect for the environment.

The masterclass featured live demonstrations, interactive sessions, and tastings led by renowned culinary experts, including Japanese Chef Dr. Takuji Takahashi, the CEO and Chef of the Michelin-starred Kinobu Restaurant in Kyoto and a member of the Japanese Culinary Academy (NPO), Dr. Hiroya Kawasaki, the Executive Specialist of Ajinomoto Co., Inc. Food Research Institute and Director of the Japanese Culinary Academy (NPO), and Chef Ajay Chopra, the Managing Director of Zion Hospitality, an Indian MasterChef, and a well-known consultant and media personality.

In order to enhance Indian food, participants were inspired to incorporate these methods and ideas into their own culinary creations after being fully immersed in the art of washoku and learning about the importance of umami.

Priyanka Dutta