The Japanese Larder

The Japanese Larder by Luiz Hara is a practical, ingredient-led guide that shows how to incorporate Japanese flavors into everyday cooking. Hara explains essential pantry items, from dashi and miso to mirin, soy sauce and pickling agents, and provides straightforward recipes and techniques for breakfasts, weeknight dinners and entertaining. The book emphasizes building a versatile larder, using umami-rich condiments to elevate familiar dishes, and includes helpful tips for storage, substitutions and simple preparations such as quick pickles, broths and marinades. It is aimed at home cooks who want to make Japanese ingredients accessible and practical without needing specialized equipment or advanced skills.