1.
chewy; firm; having a good bite; al dente
Describes noodles, mochi, or other starchy foods that have a pleasantly firm, springy texture — not soft or mushy. A desirable quality in Japanese noodle culture.
このうどんは腰がある。
These udon noodles are nice and chewy.
腰のある麺が好きです。
I like firm, chewy noodles.
讃岐うどんは腰が強くて、歯ごたえがいい。
Sanuki udon has a strong chewiness and great bite.
USAGE:
腰 here refers to the "body" or "backbone" of the noodle — its resilience and springiness. The opposite is 腰がない (soft, lacking firmness). Variations include 腰が強い (very firm) and 腰のある麺 (firm noodles, using the attributive form).
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 腰のある麺 (firm noodles)
- 腰が強い (very firm/chewy)
- 腰がない (soft, lacking firmness — negative)
CULTURAL NOTE:
Firmness (腰) is considered a key quality indicator for udon and soba. 讃岐うどん from Kagawa Prefecture is famous for its strong 腰. The concept is similar to Italian "al dente" for pasta.