Cane Zaru Tray for Soba & Udon Noodles

The tradition of serving soba noodles on a Zaru tray in Japan can be traced back to the Edo period, which lasted from 1603 to 1868. During this period, soba was a popular street food that was sold from small stalls. In order to prevent the noodles from sticking together, vendors would serve them on a bamboo tray known as a Zaru tray. This tray would catch any excess water from the noodles and allow them to cool, making them easier to eat.

The Zaru tray is still used today when serving soba noodles in Japan, and it has become an important part of the soba-eating experience. The soba noodles are typically served cold on the Zaru tray and are accompanied by a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, mirin, and other ingredients. The noodles are then dipped into the sauce and eaten.

In Japan, soba noodles are traditionally eaten on New Year’s Eve as a symbol of longevity and good fortune. The long, thin shape of the noodles is believed to represent a long life, and the act of cutting the noodles with your teeth is said to symbolize cutting away any bad luck or negativity from the past year. Eating soba noodles on New Year’s Eve is considered to be an important part of the celebration and is thought to bring good luck and prosperity in the coming year.