Japanese television continues to enthrall audiences with its blend of culture and cuisine, as seen in recent broadcasts from prominent networks. On February 9, 2025, TV-Asahi featured the popular show "Sunday My Choice," which showcased Himeji and included engaging quizzes about the region’s culinary traditions.
One particularly intriguing segment revolved around the preparation of anago (saltwater eel), highlighting regional differences: the Kanto region favors "背開き" (back-open style), offering insights on how cultural influences shape culinary practices. This is thought to be rooted in the samurai culture which sees the alternative, "腹開き" (belly-open style), as reminiscent of seppuku—a ritual suicide by samurai. The show's narrative accompanied by thoughtful quizzes encouraged viewers to think critically about the intersection of food and regional identity.
Meanwhile, culinary powerhouse and television celebrity Remi Hirano, aged 77, made waves once more on NHK's "Oharaichi" on August 10, 2025. This episode was particularly notable as Hirano sought redemption for her infamous "broccoli disaster" from over ten years ago when the dish literally fell apart live on air. Reflecting on the past, she humorously remarked, "That's what makes it legendary!"
Hirano began her segment with determination, proclaiming, "This time, I will showcase the ultimate broccoli! It won’t fall!" Her confidence set the tone for the segment, aiming to reclaim her culinary prowess. The memorable cooking accident became fodder for comedic recollections as she demonstrated her new technique for preparing broccoli.
While humorously reflecting on the incident, Hirano pointed out, "Standing broccoli is bound to fall over!" This candid approach endeared her to audiences, who equally expressed their disbelief at how much time had passed since her initial mishap, sharing sentiments on social media platforms.
Throughout her cooking demonstration, she opted for innovative techniques, questioning traditional methods by slicing the broccoli vertically before incorporating it with specially crafted sauces, dubbing her new dish "THE reclining broccoli." Furiously defending her choice, she hilariously declared, "It will not fall! I promise!"
Her segment was peppered with lighthearted banter as she made references to her own cooking equipment, the "Remi Pan," sparking some playful caution from the show's announcer, Taro Kondo. Humorously nodding at the contradictions of broadcasting etiquette, she responded to the bewilderment of viewers by clarifying product mentions with, "Sorry, I shouldn't say ‘Tabasco,’ I meant 'hot pepper sauce!'"
The viewer reaction to Hirano’s approach was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing thoughts on social media platforms. Comments ranged from numerous compliments on her vigor, such as, "Seeing Remi-san brightens up my day!" to critiques of social norms, where one viewer amusingly stated, "I think she's breaking NHK! She's such a peaceful terrorist!"
Overall, both segments from Japanese television offer more than mere entertainment. They provide insights unique to Japanese culture—encouraging viewers to deeply engage with regional culinary practices and revisit entertaining mishaps as part of the narrative. The recent shows have not only revivified old memories but have also inspired new conversations around traditional cooking methods.
Regular updates to the Japanese television schedule continue to highlight various exciting programs, affirming the medium’s commitment to education and entertainment alike. The viewers are bound to delight as networks persistently push boundaries to present segments steeped in culture—whether it be quizzes about local delicacies or the resurgence of beloved television personalities like Hirano.