Lemon nabe (レモン鍋)

At this time of year, the lemon tree in our garden is full of fruit. Lemons are now widely known as a food that fights off lifestyle-related diseases. Their unique sourness can serve as a salt substitute, so more and more people are actively using them in their everyday cooking. So how do you warm up on a cold day? The combination of warmth and citrus tang makes Lemon nabe an appealing choice during colder months in Japan. Continue reading to get to know more about this lemon nabe.

What is Lemon nabe?

Lemon nabe (レモン鍋) is a unique Japanese hot pot dish that features the refreshing and tangy flavor of lemons as a key ingredient. This modern variation of traditional nabe dishes combines the comforting warmth of hot pot cuisine with the bright, citrusy notes of fresh lemons, creating a dish that is both hearty and revitalizing. Thus, lemon brings a bright and tart flavor to this savory miso based broth. The tangy flavors of citrus provide a perfect counterbalance to the more earthy, umami richness that miso paste delivers.

Lemon nabe history

Lemon nabe is a hot pot dish made with lemon juice and slices of lemon. Locals created this in Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan’s top producer of lemons, to promote the locally grown Setouchi Hiroshima Lemons. They flavored the broth with lemon juice and garnished with lemon slices, giving it a refreshing tang while also reducing the smell of meat and seafood. Unlike imported lemons, Hiroshima lemons are free from mold inhibitors, so their skins are safe to eat. Hence, this dish first appeared in Tokyo restaurants in October 2012 and has gained popularity as a healthy hot pot option, similar to tomato hot pot and soy milk hot pot.

What ingredients are in lemon hot pot?

Lemon Hot Pot (レモン鍋) is a lively and refreshing Japanese dish that offers a unique culinary experience through its delightful combination of ingredients. At the heart of the hot pot are thinly sliced meats such as pork belly or chicken thigh, often accompanied by chicken meatballs or sausages for extra protein.

The vegetable medley usually includes white cabbage, mizuna (Japanese mustard greens), shiitake and enoki mushrooms, carrots and bean sprouts. Spring onions and tofu add texture and depth to the dish. Although not always included, some variations include seafood, such as octopus, sea bream or oysters, which add complexity to the flavour.

Creative chefs often experiment with additional ingredients to enhance the hot pot. Gyoza dumplings add body, while pork meatballs increase the protein content. Daikon radish adds a satisfying crunch, coriander an aromatic twist, and udon or ramen noodles can provide a comforting finish.

The hallmark of Lemon Hot Pot is its bright, citrusy broth, made from thinly sliced lemons and wakame seaweed. This combination results in a beautifully balanced dish that harmoniously blends tartness, richness and freshness. All in all, Lemon Hot Pot is a unique and enjoyable dining experience, tantalising the taste buds with its vibrant flavour profile.

FAQ

Lemon Nabe Recipe

Reference: Takara Shuzo

Where to buy Lemon Nabe?

Chidori Shokudo (御食事処ちどり)

Chidori is a restaurant located on Ikuchijima Island in Setoda-cho, Onomichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture. It started as a diner in 1965. Their lemon hotpot is a traditional taste that the owner passed down since the restaurant’s founding, but the most popular menu item at present.

Address: 530-2 Setoda, Setoda -cho, Onomichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture
Phone number: 0845-27-0231
Hours open: 11:00-18:00
Website: https://tabelog.com/hiroshima/

RIVA (リヴァ)

RIVA is a hidden gem in Hiroshima, specializing in regional cuisine and seasonal ingredients. The restaurant is particularly famous for its lemon hot pot, made with fresh seafood from the Seto Inland Sea and locally sourced lemons. RIVA offers a monthly changing menu, allowing guests to experience the flavors of each season. The atmosphere is calm and inviting, with a traditional Japanese design that enhances the dining experience. With 29 seats, including counter seating and private rooms, RIVA offers an intimate setting perfect for both casual dining and special occasions.

Address: 1-17 Shintenchi, Naka Ward, Hiroshima City
Phone number: +81 82-545-5360
Hours: Daily from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM (last order at 9:30 PM)
Website: Not available

<iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d13554.879449051627!2d132.44457357681068!3d34.39499754587495!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x355aa2058e28166b%3A0xa17d918827e24585!2sRIVA!5e0!3m2!1sja!2sjp!4v1733907822906!5m2!1sja!2sjp" width="100%" height="450" style="border:0;" allowfullscreen="" loading="lazy" referrerpolicy="no-referrer-when-downgrade"></iframe>

Takeaway

Whether you’re drawn to its light, tangy broth or its use of fresh, locally-sourced lemons, Lemon nabe is sure to leave a lasting impression. So, if you’re in Japan, don’t miss the chance to savor this vibrant dish at restaurants or try making it at home with the renowned Setouchi Hiroshima Lemons.

Some of the hotpot or nabe in Japan we highly recommend are below!