The End of the Year in Japan: Toshikoshi-soba

There are many original rituals and custom in Japan. And today we have "toshikoshi-soba". Toshikoshi-soba is a bowl of noodles eaten at the end of the year. The ingredients differ with each house, but most families living in Japan eat soba during the year-end countdown.

You might wonder why is it not any other type of noodle such as; udon, or pasta or ramen? Why soba? Well, it is said that soba is thin and longer than any other types of noodle. And by eating this, it was said that one can gain long lasting life and long lasting health. Till this day the ritual and the legend has been believed and many family eat the noodle together.

How to make Toshikoshi-soba
Step1: Cut chicken meat and chives into small pieces.

Step2: Pour water into a pot and bring it to a boil. When the water boils, place in the chicken pieces and the chives. Turn off the stove when they are cooked.

Step3: In another pot, bring the water being used to cook the soba to a boil.

Step4: When the water boils, put the soba into the water and wait until they are cooked, but firm (follow the directions on the soba package).

Step5: Place the noodles into a bowl and pour in the soup made earlier with the chicken and the chives.

Step6: If you wish, you can add shichi-mi (Japanese mixed chili pepper powder) on top, and the Toshikoshi Soba is ready to be served.