
Okayu is a traditional Japanese rice porridge, often considered a comfort food. It's made by slowly simmering rice in a large amount of water until it breaks down into a soft, creamy consistency, with the rice-to-water ratio typically being 1:5 to 1:8. It's a simple dish often served plain or with minimal toppings like umeboshi (pickled plum), nori (seaweed), or a drizzle of soy sauce.
Okayu is primarily a high-carbohydrate food, providing quick and easily digestible energy. It is low in fat and protein, and a typical 1-cup serving contains roughly 150-200 calories, making it a light yet nourishing option.
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Protein | 3 g |
| Carbs | 33 g |
| Fat | 0.5 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 0 g |
| Sodium | 5 mg |
| Potassium | 40 mg |
| Magnesium | 12 mg |
| Phosphorus | 45 mg |
| Thiamin (B1) | 0.1 mg |
| Niacin (B3) | 1.8 mg |
| Iron | 0.5 mg |
| Manganese | 0.4 mg |
| Selenium | 6 µg |
Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
Culturally, okayu is deeply associated with healing and care in Japan, often the first food given to the sick, elderly, or infants due to its gentle nature on the digestive system. Nutritionally, its simplicity makes it a blank canvas for adding nutrient-dense toppings to create a balanced meal.
AI estimate may be inaccurate · Terms