Zouni (雑煮) - Food in Japan

Zouni is a traditional Japanese New Year’s soup featuring mochi rice cakes, and its preparation varies significantly across regions and households in Japan. Originating from the Heian dynasty (794-1185), it is an auspicious dish, meaning locals often eat it as a prayer for good health and prosperity in the new year. The word "Zouni" translates to "miscellaneous boil," reflecting its variety of ingredients, including mochi, vegetables, seafood, and regional specialties such as kamaboko and kurikinton.

The dish can be seasoned with soy sauce or miso, and the type of soup stock used often depends on regional preferences, like the clear Dashi-based Sumashi-jiru in Kanto. The shape of the mochi also differs by region: Kansai prefers round mochi, symbolizing good luck, while Kanto uses square mochi due to historical production efficiency. Zouni is considered a symbol of longevity and prosperity, with components like mochi adding to its meaning.

Several eateries in Japan specialize in Zouni, offering variations like those with salmon, oysters, or unique soup stocks, reflecting the diverse cultural tapestry surrounding the dish. These restaurants, such as Torii and Gekko, not only serve Zouni but also contribute to preserving this culinary tradition, fostering a deeper connection between people and their cultural roots. Despite modern criticisms about food education, Zouni continues to represent more than just a meal, encapsulating ancestral traditions and identity.