In Japan people usually like to treat themselves to cool foods such as watermelon, ice cream and, you guessed it, soba. Soba is made of buckweat, harvested about 4 times a year in Japan (meaning there is plenty of it) and consumed by millions.

The noodles themselves are usually darker in color and very rich in nuitrients. From reading up on the topic in Wikipedia I found out that they became popular in the Tokugawa Period when many people in the cities were only consuming white rice and getting sick. The solution? Nutrient rich Buckwheat noodles! Very cool.

The best time that I've eaten these noodles has got to be right after going to the onsen (Japanese hot springs). Getting out of there and slurping down some cool noodles with some cold sake or beer is definately a treat all should experience when visiting Japan.

Soba is usually cooked in water and then placed on a straw, or bamboo mat. Then the person eating will take some of the noodles and dip it into a small bowl filled with Tsuyu (sweetened soy sauce with some other goodies inside). After that they are supposed to slurp the noodles.

The Tsuyu is generally served cold with some small onions and/or wasabi sauce inside it. It's very delicious and people will often take leftover water from boiling the noodles and pour it in to the remaining Tsuyu and drink after the meal. Very filling!

These noodles are served as either very dark buckweat in color, preserving the texture by not serving it hot or as bleached buckweat. Soba can also be served hot but generally isn't in Summer. Be aware that thick noodles are considered Udon and thin noodles are considered Soba.

In Japan it is perfectly acceptable to slurp your noodles, noisily. In fact, it used to be considered good manners to slurp loudly to show your enjoyment of the meal to the shop owner. Now it's not quite as necessary but many Japanese do slurp loudly, so do not be alarmed when you eat in a Japanese restaurant. If you feel brave enough, you may even slurp along with them!? (I personally do not slurp, I can't bring myself).

Also remember, that you usually eat Soba with Chop Sticks, the noodles can be difficult to manage at times so be patient and give it a try! I'm sure you'll love it in the summer.