What's the Difference Between Teppan and Teppanyaki?

When dining at a Japanese restaurant, you may come across two terms that sound similar: teppan and teppanyaki. While both involve cooking on a griddle, there are subtle differences between the two. In this article, we explore the distinctions between teppan and teppanyaki and shed light on their unique culinary experiences.

Teppan

Teppan, which translates to "iron plate," refers to the cooking technique of using an iron griddle to prepare a variety of dishes. This method has its roots in traditional Japanese cuisine and is often associated with teppanyaki. However, teppan can be used for more than just grilling meats and vegetables. It can also be used for stir-frying, simmering, and even making pancakes.

Teppan is commonly found in Japanese households, where a flat iron plate is heated over a gas flame or electric burner. This allows for even heat distribution, making it an ideal tool for precise cooking. The teppan griddle provides a large cooking surface, allowing multiple ingredients to be cooked simultaneously.

Teppanyaki

Teppanyaki, on the other hand, is a style of cooking that originated in Japan but gained popularity worldwide. The term "teppanyaki" translates to "grilled on an iron plate." In this cooking style, a skilled chef prepares the food in front of diners on a large, flat iron griddle.

Teppanyaki restaurants often feature a communal table surrounding the cooking area, creating an interactive dining experience. The chef showcases their culinary skills as they entertain guests with impressive knife techniques, juggling utensils, and creating fiery displays. While teppanyaki is now associated with entertaining tableside cooking, it originally evolved from the teppan cooking technique.

The Main Differences

The main difference between teppan and teppanyaki lies in their scope and presentation. Teppan is a general cooking technique that encompasses various methods, including grilling, stir-frying, and simmering. In contrast, teppanyaki specifically refers to the style of cooking where a chef prepares and cooks the food in front of diners on a teppan griddle.

Another distinction is the social aspect. Teppanyaki restaurants are known for their lively and interactive atmosphere, where diners can enjoy a show while their food is being prepared. Teppanyaki chefs often engage with customers, offering a unique dining experience that combines entertainment and delicious food.

Conclusion

In summary, while teppan and teppanyaki are related terms that both involve cooking on an iron griddle, there are distinct differences between the two. Teppan refers to the cooking technique itself, which encompasses various methods of using an iron plate. Teppanyaki, on the other hand, is a specific style of cooking that involves a chef preparing and cooking food in front of diners on a teppan griddle, often accompanied by an entertaining performance.

Whether you prefer the versatility of teppan cooking or the interactive experience of teppanyaki, both offer a unique and delicious way to enjoy Japanese cuisine.