Sukiyaki is a classic Japanese dish that comprises pan-fried beef slices, which are cooked in sugar, soy sauce and sake. There are many legends associated with the etymology of sukiyaki. As per one theory, the origin of the name is from the word suki which refers to spade, while yaki is another word for grilling. Somewhere during 1603-1868 or the edo period, farmers would use suki to cook fish and tofu, However, another theory suggests that sukiyaki became a traditional Japanese dish only during Meiji era (1868–1912). Many also say that the word could be derived from sukimi which is Japanese for thinly sliced meat.
Due to the rise of Buddhism in Japan, eating meat and slaughtering animals was almost banned in the region. One would eat meat only on specific occasions, like when sick. It was never meant to be an indulgent treat. However, things changed during the Meiji era, when Japan opened up its ports to foreign merchants. And with these foreigners, came the culture of eating meat and cooking it in varied styles, sukiyaki, mostly made with beef, became a go-to-favorite.
