Your Home Izakaya

Book excerpt: Financial Times Best of Books 2021 In Your Home Izakaya, chef Tim Anderson explores the ‘anything goes’ concept of izakaya by showcasing over 100 flavour-packed recipes. Izakaya began as sake stores that allowed their customers to drink on the premises, and, over time, they began to serve food as well. The food is simple to prepare but big on flavour, making it conducive to sociable snacking in between gulps of booze. From Radish and Watercress Salad and Sweetcorn with Soy Sauce Butter, to Spicy Sesame Ramen Salad and Udon Carbonara with Bacon Tempura, the recipes are impressive yet simple to achieve and no specialist equipment is needed. Plus, it includes a guide on how to stock a Japanese bar as well as how to knock up a few choice cocktails. Full of delicious dishes, Your Home Izakaya is perfect for anyone wanting to make show-off food fit for a dinner party with minimum fuss and maximum fun.