Mizore nabe: Japanese stew with chicken

Mizore-Nabe is a wonderful choice for anyone looking for a warming yet light dish. This traditional Japanese hot pot is characterized by a special ingredient: Daikon radish (大根), which gives the soup a mild freshness.

Recipes in this blog post:
What is Mizore nabe
The name "Mizore" (みぞれ) means "sleet" in Japanese and describes the appearance of the daikon (大根, daikon) as it disperses in the warm broth. This dish belongs to the category of Nabe (鍋) dishes, a collective term for Japanese hot pot dishes that are especially popular during the cold season.
Nabe literally means "pot," but in Japanese cuisine, it refers to hearty broths with various ingredients such as meat, fish, tofu, and vegetables. These dishes are traditionally served in a large pot directly at the table, allowing everyone to help themselves little by little.
Mizore-Nabe originates from Japanese home cooking and is particularly appreciated for its light and easily digestible preparation. The daikon radish gives the dish a mild freshness and is also believed to aid digestion. In different regions of Japan, there are slight variations, with Mizore-Nabe sometimes being supplemented with mushrooms or other vegetables.
Mizore-Nabe can vary depending on the region and personal preferences, but the base usually remains the same:
- Chopped daikon radish (大根, daikon): Daikon is usually finely grated for Mizore-Nabe, giving the broth a thicker, almost snow-like consistency. In this recipe, however, it is cut into cubes, providing a firmer texture and making the dish overall heartier.
- Chicken: Adds a hearty and protein-rich base.
- Spring onions: Contribute a slightly sweet aroma.
- Dashi broth (出汁, dashi): The foundation, enhanced with soy sauce, mirin, and sake.
- Fresh herbs like parsley: For an aromatic finish.
A vegetarian alternative to chicken is firm tofu (木綿豆腐, momen-dofu), which absorbs the broth well and provides a pleasant texture.
How to make a Mizore nabe
Choosing the Right Daikon
Daikon is the main ingredient of Mizore-Nabe and significantly influences the flavor and texture of the dish. A good daikon should be fresh and firm, feel heavy in hand, and have smooth, undamaged skin. If daikon is hard to find, it can be replaced with white radish, although this is often slightly more intense in flavor.
Where to Buy Daikon?
In Germany, daikon is mainly available in well-stocked Asian markets. Some larger organic stores or farmers' markets also offer it occasionally. Certain well-stocked supermarkets may carry it from time to time.

Choosing the Right Pot – Heat-Retaining and Perfect for the Table
Mizore-Nabe turns out especially well in a cast iron pot, as it retains heat excellently and cooks the ingredients evenly. This enhances the flavors and creates an even better taste experience.
A cast iron pot offers many advantages:
- Excellent heat retention: Cast iron keeps heat for a long time and ensures even cooking of the ingredients.
- Enhanced flavor: The slow release of heat allows the broth's flavors to develop more intensely.
- Durability and robustness: A high-quality cast iron pot lasts a very long time with proper care.
- Perfect for communal dining: Mizore-Nabe is traditionally served directly at the table, allowing everyone to help themselves gradually. A cast iron pot keeps the food warm longer and creates a cozy dining experience.
Recipe: Mizore nabe with chicken
This Mizore-Nabe recipe comes from Misato Ueyama, a Kyoto-born chef who is passionate about the connection between food, nature, and community.










200g
Chicken wings
|
400g
Daikon radish
|
1/2 bunch
smooth parsley
|
20g
grated ginger
|
180g
cooked rice
|
500ml
water
|
1 tbsp
ground sesame seeds
|
1 tsp
salt
|
some
oil (rice oil, or other vegetable oil)
|
some
sesame oil
|







Tip: Add the salt in three steps to optimally blend the flavors of the individual ingredients.
If you want to prepare the recipe without meat, replace the chicken with smoked tofu, cutting it into slightly thicker slices.
Mizore-Nabe is not only a classic winter dish but also perfect for any season when you crave a light yet warming meal. Give it a try and enjoy a piece of Japanese food culture at home.
For an authentic Mizore-Nabe experience, serve it in handcrafted Japanese soup bowls. These bowls are not only aesthetically pleasing but also help retain the dish's warmth for longer. The harmonious blend of fine craftsmanship and culinary enjoyment makes the meal a special experience.

Japanese soup bowls: Soup bowl, rice bowl Koten chairo