Philippines

Philippines (#16) Sinigang na Baboy (Pork and Tamarind Soup)

I don't just enjoy soup on a cold winter's day, I enjoyed it yesterday even though it was 111 degrees.  This simple soup, a staple in Filipino kitchens is absolutely delicious.  Once again, I stumbled upon this recipe on You Tube and watched practically every video.  The key ingredient is Knorr tamarind soup mix which gives it the name "sour soup".  A variety of different vegetables can be used but onions and tomatoes are essential.  I made mine with daikon radish, green beans and bok choy.  I sauteed onions and ginger in oil then added tomatoes and baby back spareribs and let them brown a little.  After 20 minutes or so, I added 14 cups of water and the tamarind packet, and let this simmer for about an hour.  I then added the daikon radish and green beans and cooked for about 30 minutes until they were tender.  Right before serving I added the bok choy and ladled the soup over rice.

Japan

Japan (#15) Onigirazu (Rice Ball Sandwich)

According to Japan Times, this "sandwich" was chosen as the top dish for 2015.  It's a take on onigiri but is much easier to make and uses non-traditional Japanese fillings.  I looked at a lot of recipes and watched You Tube videos and there are endless fillings that can be used.  I made my first one with Canadian bacon, Swiss cheese and avocado.  A square of sushi rice is placed on the nori seaweed sheet, then topped with the fillings and a final topping of more rice.  It's wrapped in plastic wrap then cut to reveal the layers of filling.  Other fillings that can be used are layers of fresh vegetables or eggs, ham and cheese, pork cutlet, or teriaki chicken.  Just about anything can be put together for an easy on-the-go lunch.
http://www.justonecookbook.com/chicken-katsu-onigirazu/