#Japan #Tokyo #Chinese Cuisine #Easy Recipes #Cookpad

The Rise of Easy Cooking in Autumn

As the season of appetites approaches, the desire for convenient and satisfying meals has surged. Cookpad, the leading recipe platform in Japan, has recently published its ranking of searches that combine "easy" with various dishes, providing an insightful glimpse into today's changing family cooking needs. As dual-income households make up approximately 70% of families in Japan, the need for accessible yet delicious meals becomes crucial for many.

Changing Family Dynamics and Culinary Expectations

According to a survey by the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications, the number of dual-income households has grown consistently, reaching 13 million by 2024. Notably, families with children accounted for about 60% of these households. This shift signifies that more parents are actively balancing work and family commitments, often resulting in limited time for meal preparation.

Simultaneously, the rising cost of living has compelled many families to reconsider their expenditure on dining out. With the Consumer Price Index increasing from 100 in 2020 to 108.5 in 2024, the financial pressure is palpable, inspiring many to seek quick and satisfying home-cooked meals within a constrained budget.

Trending Searches on Cookpad

The data analysis from Cookpad reflects a significant trend: the top combinations of searches using "easy" showcase a clear preference for Chinese cuisine. For the second consecutive year, 'Oyakodon' (parent-and-child rice bowl) has held the first position in the rankings, demonstrating its stable popularity among family cooks. Meanwhile, from 2nd to 5th place, easy Chinese recipes, including Mabo Tofu, Chinjao Rosu, Shrimp Mayo, and Hoi-Ko-Rou, take the lead, indicating the growing love for bold flavors and easily accessible ingredients.

Key Preferences in Family Cooking

One of the noteworthy insights from this data is that many users search specifically for easy paired with certain dishes and further refine their selections based on the number of positive reviews (called 'tsukurepo') they receive. This method ensures they choose recipes that deliver satisfaction and are proven family favorites.

• - Oyakodon remains unchallenged at number one for two years, a staple home-cooked dish cherished by families.
• - The Chinese dishes taking over the ranks not only satisfy taste buds but also use common ingredients found in most kitchens.

The Protein Shift in Household Cooking

Looking at the data further, another aspect of modern cooking trends becomes evident: the focus on protein-rich, budget-friendly ingredients. For five consecutive years, Chicken Breast has been a leading choice, cementing its status as a go-to ingredient, thanks to its health benefits and affordability. In 2025, meats like Chicken Thigh, Sasami (chicken tender), and Pork Pieces are expected to occupy the top four spots for meat searches, showcasing families' growing emphasis on nutrition without breaking the bank.

Interestingly, there's been a notable drop in the popularity of Pancake Mix, which previously enjoyed consistent representation. In 2025, it is projected to fall out of top rankings entirely, highlighting a shift toward health-conscious and economical choices.

Turning to Cookpad’s Tested Recipes

For those worried about whether quick recipes will satisfy their family, Cookpad provides reassuring evidence through its 'tsukurepo' feature, showcasing successful attempts accompanied by photos from users. Currently, there are over 10,000 easy recipes on Cookpad that have gathered more than 100 'tsukurepo' each, signaling a strong endorsement from families. Many testimonials express sentiments like, "The kids finished everything!" and "This recipe saved me on a busy day!"

Food Industry Response to Cooking Trends

In response to this growing trend for 'simple and satisfying' meals, food companies are adapting their product lines. New condiments that allow users to achieve complex flavors without extensive preparation steps are hitting the market, making cooking less daunting. The frozen food sector is also innovating by introducing items that offer the joy of making home-cooked meals without the overwhelming effort.

Cookpad’s simple recipes are increasingly becoming a vital option for contemporary families alongside ready-to-eat meals available in stores.

Conclusion: A Family-Friendly Dining Experience

During this age where about 70% of households are dual-income, many share a common desire to prepare meals that delight the entire family in less time. The existence of over 10,000 easy recipes on Cookpad with significant positive feedback indicates that quick yet delicious recipes indeed hold value on family dining tables. Especially, recipes like "Simple Ginger Pork"—with over 20,000 tsukurepo—are recognized as beloved staples in Japanese families.

As we enjoy the flavors of autumn, Cookpad continues to support families in cherishing meal moments together, reinforcing the message that even during our busiest days, wholesome cooking is within reach.