Cooking & Culture with Chieko: Omurice & Calligraphy (Chiba)

Omurice: a jiggling, soft, and creamy omelet sitting on a bed of fried rice topped with tomato sauce. You may have seen this beloved comfort food making the rounds on TikTok and Instagram. Join Chieko for a home cooking class in Chiba to master the art of this beloved Japanese comfort dish. Chieko's culinary journey began in Tokushima, where her family's farming heritage ensured fresh ingredients year-round. From there, she traversed Japan and even Los Angeles, honing her passion for food and its power to bring happiness. Guided by her mother's culinary finesse and inspired by the harmony of ingredients, Chieko's mission is to foster an appreciation for Japanese culture through its cuisine. Omurice's origins can be traced back to the 1900s when Western influence influenced Japanese culinary traditions. It was in this era of experimentation that omurice emerged, merging a Western breakfast staple (omelets) with a Japanese comfort food (fried rice). This recipe brilliantly encapsulates the Japanese penchant for adopting and adapting foreign flavors into their cuisine. The foundation is a bed of fluffy, seasoned fried rice. The rice is often stir-fried with vegetables, proteins, and a hint of ketchup or demi-glace sauce. A thin, delicate omelet envelops the rice, ensuring each bite perfectly balances textures and flavors. The finishing touch involves drizzling the omelet with more sauce, whether ketchup, demi-glace, or a combination of both. After you've made and enjoyed your handmade meal, learn the art of Japanese calligraphy! Write your favorite Japanese words, names, or characters (hiragana, katakana, kanji). Experience flow: Be picked up at Chiba Station (by your host) and transferred to the experience location Exchange greetings, settle in, and head to the kitchen Learn about Japanese cooking techniques and tools Make omurice and various side dishes Enjoy your handmade meal Calligraphy lesson