Osechi is a very special meal. One only gets to eat this very symbolic food during New Year's, and frankly, I have not been back to Japan for New Years to eat my favorite osechi since I left for college. Every year, I missed it...but it's too specialized to cook by myself. Traditionally, the women of the house would pre-cook the food so they didn't have to cook on New Year's Day and several days following, but this would take a long time to prepare. It's not something I'd whip up over the weekend here, even if I could.
Last year, on a whim, I ordered a small version from Nijiya here, and we shared with the Regenbogens. Luckily, they wanted to share again...and with another couple coming, we all chipped in and order THE GORGEOUS version. Dav can tell you, I was excited for weeks until I could eat it!!
I was not disappointed, and feel so lucky to live in a city that offers pretty much all the home Japanese food I miss (vs. restaurant stuff). And very lucky that our friends went in with us for this special meal since it really was not cheap...
I should add that Rachel was in my heart as I really wanted to share this with her too...and I'd love to share this with my bro's family too :)
The 3 layered boxes, waiting on the table. (Yes, that's a giant moose sitting at the table...)
Opened boxes to reveal simmered vegetables, cooked meat and fish, and sumptuous delicacies.
The
ozoni I made with omochi (puffed up in the toaster)...I was unfortunately disappointed with it as the soup base had too much shiitake when I tried to experiment...then got watered down and wasn't that good. Ack...next year!
My plate...and our wonderful group on New Year's. And thank you to the Regenbogens who brought 2 bottles of very elegant sake...very nice!
Thank you to Michelle for taking the pics!!
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