toshikoshi soba

(photo taken at Katsuoji, Minoo)

In Hawaii, we used to eat toshikoshi soba as part of our New Year's Eve dinner. I was surprised to find out that in Japan, they eat it just before midnight. Toshikoshi soba literally means "year crossing noodles". When making the toshikoshi soba, the noodles are left extra long to symbolize long life and prosperity.

Most people recall events that occurred during the year and prepare for the coming year while slurping their toshikoshi soba.

Here's my toshikoshi soba, which I had for lunch.

Cook your soba (buckwheat noodles) according to the directions on the package.

The soup: Serves 2
4 tablespoons mirin (sweet rice wine)
4 tablespoons sake (rice wine)
300cc dashi (kombu & katsuo (kelp and bonito) soup stock)(about 1.5 cups)
40cc shoyu (soy sauce) (about 1/4 cup)
5g katsuo bushi (bonito flakes)

The toppings:
naruto maki (a type of kamaboko (fish paste) which resembles a whirlpool)
chopped green onions

We want to thank you for taking the time throughout the year to write a comment, send an e-mail and for reading our adventures.

Despite some low points, the bulk of the year was fun and exciting. We made some new friends and had new adventures.

We hope 2008 will be a delicious year for you, filled with new experiences, new adventures, good health and prosperity.

(a little photo round-up of the year)

Let's see what the Year of Rat will bring...Happy New Year everyone!