History of Tamagoyaki
Tamagoyaki is a fairly new dish comparatively to the history of sushi which spans a long time in cooking history. Since during the Edo Period of 1603–1868 egg recipes were quite uncommon and eggs were not commonly part of daily meals.
Because this has something to do with the ban of egg consumption during the 14th century of Japan. As a result of the rise of Buddhism in Japanese culture which links to anti-animal consumption edicts. So the consumption of eggs has only become acceptable during the start of the Edo Period.
But recipes where eggs are used in Japanese cooking only became appearing during the 18th century. Since to create Tamagoyaki the cook would need sugar and Mirin to allow the layers to be soft and tender. And at that time sugar was quite an expensive import.
Contrary to the general theory, the Japanese Rolled Omelette didn’t originate as a way to encourage parents to give children more protein. But became popular more as a result of the nice change of the omelette from the salty/sour taste of other recipes.
And the rolled omelettes have this nice sweetness that makes it a great palate cleanser from other food in the cuisine. Moreover the omelet is super quick and simple to prepare for and takes only a few minutes out of your morning.
What Does Tamagoyaki Taste Like?
Firstly these little rolled bread has a slightly sweet taste to them and with a mellow custardy texture as you bite the bread. And the sweetness can be changed as you adjust the ratio of sugar and salt to your likeness.
Beyond only the sugar which is added to it to share that sweetness to the food, there’s also Mirin which gives it that sweet delicate flavor.
Which is a type of Japanese sweet rice wine that’s similar to sake. However with a lower alcohol content and more sugar to the mixture. Mirin is sweet in its flavor and has a golden amber color with a thick texture.
Beside the Mirin and sugar which is added to give that sweetness, the recipe can be added a sachet of dashi stock for wonderful taste. And this is done to create another variety of Tamagoyaki where the dashi stock is spiced to the egg to create a thin layer.
What Do You Eat Tamagoyaki With?
Nonetheless, Tamagoyaki is not only eaten only in Japan for lunch from the bento box. But also as a material to create the delicious Tamago Nigiri Sushi Egg Omelette.
Which is a thin egg omelette that is layered on top of the sushi rice and then tied together like a knot by a strip of nori seaweed. With the omelette smooth in texture, firm to the touch, but never spongy and remains soft.
Hence the Tamago Nigiri Roll is supposed to have a mixture of sweetness along with saltiness. That sweetness from the smell of the egg roll contrasting to the sourness of the vinegar sushi rice, along with a dip of umami meaty sea salt from the nori seaweed.
Tamagoyaki Fillings
Beyond just as a nice sushi roll, it can also stand by itself with the many varieties that can be added to it. Fusion with the different ingredients to create a truly delicious staple to your day.
There was also a post that I found where someone used blueberries, nuts, and oatmeal to create her roll. Which is a great idea that truly incorporates healthy superfoods that are not only delicious but also a great antioxidant.
But that is only one idea for create a delicious healthy breakfast, some other fillings include:
- Bacon
- Cheese
- Mushrooms
- Parsley
- Asparagus
- Minced Chicken
- Carrot
- Onion
- Cucumber
- Ground Beef
- Olives
There’s just too many different types of ingredients that you can apply to making your omelette roll. My personal favorite being the onion and the bacon.
Microwaving Japanese Omelette
Similarly to how you would microwave your other foods, the omelette doesn’t need too much heating. So depending how warm you would like it, I would say put it in there for 1–3 minutes.
Refrigerating Japanese Omelette
Can You Freeze Tamagoyaki?
Firstly before you start freezing your freshly made Tamagoyaki, let it begin cooling down since it just came out of the oven.
Second you want to pack these nice fluffy rolls in small individual amounts wrapped tightly in plastic wrap then place inside a ziplock bag or a plastic storage container. This will help keep it really air-tight.
How Long Does Tamagoyaki Last?
Although the Tamagoyaki can be stored for a maximum of up to 2 weeks, it’s best that you don’t go for such a long period of time. Because it will lose that sense of freshness.
But when you’re ready to take it out, make sure to check for signs of spoilage. Then you can either choose to microwave them or leave it to warm up in your lunch box.
