Soba - (そば)

What Exactly is Soba - (そば)?

Soba (そば) is a thin noodle made from buckwheat. Even the Japanese characters translate to 'buckwheat.'

This delicious treat can be served in a variety of ways, from being served in a hot noodle soup to being chilled with a tasty dipping sauce.

In Japan, these noodles can be found in many places, from big fancy restaurants to markets where the dried noodles are sold with an instant broth to make it easier for people at home.

Like many other dishes, various varieties are used for different times and seasons of the year, such as hot soba for the winter and cold soba for the summer.

Soba can also complement other grains like wheat flour and white rice.

Is There A History Behind Them?

Eating soba is a tradition that dates back to the Edo Period, from 1603 to 1868, also known as the Tokugawa period. Soba was found in a few establishments in certain neighborhoods where people would stop for a meal, akin to the cafes we find in the modern world today.

During this time, many people, especially those considered wealthier, were susceptible to a disease called Beriberi. This was due to their consumption of large amounts of white rice, which is low in thiamine (also known as vitamin B1). Beriberi is a disease where the body does not have enough thiamine. It was discovered that consuming thiamine-rich soba regularly could combat this disease.

In the 1700s, a delivery service called 'demae' was used by the wealthy to have soba bowls delivered to them. However, in March 1961, new laws were put in place that restricted this delivery service from carrying soba bowls on their shoulders while riding bicycles, as it was deemed dangerous. Consequently, this method of delivery was soon discontinued.

Some people believe that soba originated in China and was brought to Japan towards the end of the Jomon period, which spanned from 10,000 BC to 300 BC.

So What Are The Health Benefits of Soba - (そば)?

There are numerous health benefits to enjoy from indulging in this culinary delight.

Soba noodles are a rich source of manganese, essential for bone health, and a great source of thiamin, also known as Vitamin B1.

Moreover, they are high in protein and soluble fiber, supporting cardiovascular health and aiding in blood sugar control. Additionally, they are low in fat, gluten-free, and serve as a prebiotic food.

With Soba noodles, there's no need to worry about compromising your health, given the multitude of advantages they offer!

Here Is A Quick And Easy Recipe For You To Try It Out At Home!

Our recipe shout out goes out to the website called A Couple Cooks!

They have a very simple and easy recipe for you guys so that you can try this out at home!

To try out their recipe Click Here!

Dōzo omeshiagarikudasai!! (enjoy your meal!)