#Japan #Survey #Tokyo #soup #Cookpad

Understanding Generational Differences in Soup Making

In a recent survey conducted by Cookpad, Japan's leading recipe-sharing platform, a fascinating exploration into the communal soup-making habits of its users has revealed significant generational gaps. The survey, titled "2025 Soup Awareness Survey", targeted users across various ages, focusing on the frequency and types of soups prepared, as well as the kitchen tools and brands preferred for this warming meal. Here’s a closer look at the findings.

Survey Overview

Conducted from October 3 to 6, 2025, the survey pulled data from 858 Cookpad users. The objective was to dive deeper into the current popularity of soups, particularly in the autumn and winter months, a period where comfort food like soup is highly sought after. Notably, miso soup was excluded from the survey definition of soup.

Key Findings

Soup Preparation Frequency

The survey found that most users prepared soup two to three times a month. While not a daily staple, soup emerges as a popular option, chosen according to meal planning, seasonal ingredients, and personal preference. Interestingly, among those cooking soup less frequently than once a week, around 32% reported making almost no soups at all, emphasizing a notable trend in meal selection.

Popular Soups

When it comes to the rankings of popular soups created during the fall and winter, the results were as follows: 1) Stew, 2) Pot-au-feu, and 3) Consommé. Stews held consistent appeal across all age demographics. However, the younger age group (under 30) displayed a broader range of recipes, with consommé and Chinese soup also finding favor in addition to stew and pot-au-feu.

Kitchen Tools and Brands

The survey further revealed that non-stick cookware, particularly Tefal pans, topped the list of cooking tools used for making soup, with nearly 50% of respondents opting for this brand. Following closely were stainless steel and aluminum pots. The generational divide was notable, with younger users showing a preference for non-stick pans (63.5% usage among those under 30), while older demographics favored traditional stainless steel pots (59.7% usage among those above 60).

Soup Cooking Brands

Tefal maintained its dominance in the kitchen brand rankings, with Nitori and Le Creuset trailing in second and third place, respectively. The younger generation favored brands like Tefal and Nitori, which cater to quick cooking needs, while older segment preferences leaned toward robust brands that support slow cooking such as Le Creuset.

Cooking Time Preferences by Age

An examination of cooking times revealed that younger users utilizing brands like Tefal and Nitori typically spent less time preparing soups (10-20 minutes). In contrast, users of Le Creuset and Staub spent longer periods (20-30 minutes), indicative of a preference for leisurely cooking experiences among older generations, who often view the act of cooking as a rewarding pastime.

The Broader Implications

According to Takako Kotake, the PR Director of Cookpad, these findings reflect a notable shift in how different generations approach meal preparation. Younger cooks demonstrate a desire for convenience and efficiency, often opting for quicker recipes, while older generations take pleasure in the time-consuming process of traditional cooking. This divergence speaks to changing lifestyles and expectations around cooking and meal preparation.

Moreover, the persistence of classic soups like stews and pot-au-feu coexists with the growing interest among young cooks in diverse soup varieties, such as consommé and other international recipes. This speaks volumes about the evolving culinary landscape within households.

Cookpad continues to enrich its platform with a vast array of soup recipes that cater to diverse lifestyles, cooking skills, and preferences. As every season rolls around, the rich tapestry of culinary traditions linked with soup-making will surely continue to evolve.

Popular Cookpad Soup Recipes

• - "No More Store-bought Stew Mix! Use This Instead" – A creamy stew recipe by 'Orihime Mama' that emphasizes homemade goodness without commercial mixes.
• - "Chef's Tips for an Easy Yet Delicious Pot-au-feu" – A straightforward pot-au-feu recipe, shared by 'Kojimaponsuke', offering professional tips for tantalizing flavor.
• - "Hearty Tofu and Crab Stick Chinese Soup" – A warm, comfort-inducing Chinese soup recipe by 'Hokkori-no', rich in flavor and heartiness.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Cookpad's soup survey sheds light on valuable insights into how generational differences influence culinary habits and preferences. The rich variety of soup recipes available reflects the fusion of modern cooking with traditional techniques, ensuring that everyone finds something to enjoy, regardless of their generational background.