Delicooks

I won't just teach you to cook authentic Japanese cuisine. I'll transport you to Tokyo, modern Japan, by relating my experiences, travels and personal experiences.

How did you first get interested in Japanese culture and cuisine?
My husband lived in Japan as a child for 8 years and his house was my first direct contact with Japanese culture and cuisine. As an interior designer I've always been fascinated by and admired the simplicity of Japanese architecture and space, its finishes in wood and natural tiles.

What can we expect from one of your cooking classes?
I won't just teach you to cook authentic Japanese cuisine, where raw fish plays but a small part. I'll transport you to Tokyo, modern Japan, by relating my experiences, travels and personal experiences. These classes are fun because there are plenty of anecdotes that arise for each and every recipe and people like to imagine themselves in such situations.
Many of my students have been in Japan or plan to go soon, so there are always some questions regarding travel and culture while we're cooking.

How true is the cliché that Japanese food is very healthy?
It's definitely true. It is an easy food to digest. It has contrasting soft flavours and textures, and it is very easy to create because in Spain we have everything you need: fresh fish, very good quality meats, fresh vegetables and rice.
The use of vegetable protein (soy and derivatives), of fish and vegetables makes it one of the healthiest diets in the world. That's why it has become so popular in Europe and in countries that were traditionally more usually carnivorous.

What plans do you have for the future?
Create my own cooking school to reach more people.

What product never missing from your fridge?
Soy sauce and miso paste.

What would you rustle up for unexpected guests or friends?
Soba noodles with vegetables, sautéed in sake, and a nice Blue Fin Tuna, which I always have in the freezer.

What is your favourite food?
Nigiris and Ramen.

If we went to Japan, what would you recommend? Do you have a favourite restaurant?
My favourite restaurant would be "Shunju"in Tameikesanno on the 27th floor. They've a great selection of small dishes you can share among friends and the decor and views are among the best in town.
It's a great Isakaya! I recommend trying the Kinu tofu, or silken tofu. Nothing like what we get here.
Isakaya is a type of restaurant serving various dishes, like tapas here. Restaurants are generally of a special type in Japan: if you go to a tempura restaurant, you will only get tempera.
If you go to a ramen shop, they'll only serve Ramen.