Exploring Asahikawa's Local Cuisine: Traditional Dishes, Restaurants & Recipes
Exploring Asahikawa's Local Cuisine: Traditional Dishes, Restaurants & Recipes
When it comes to experiencing the authentic flavors of Asahikawa, a city located in the heart of Hokkaido, Japan, you're in for a treat. Asahikawa is known for its rich culinary heritage and diverse range of local dishes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. From savory ramen noodles to fresh seafood, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this gastronomic paradise.
Traditional Dishes
1. Asahikawa Ramen: Asahikawa ramen is a must-try dish when visiting the city. Known for its rich and flavorful soy-based broth, chewy noodles, and various toppings such as char siu pork, green onions, and kamaboko (fish cake), this local specialty will leave you craving for more. Some popular ramen shops include Ramen Santouka and Ichikura.
2. Jingisukan: This local specialty is a grilled lamb dish that originated in Hokkaido. Thinly sliced lamb is marinated in a savory sauce and grilled on a hot plate. Jingisukan is often enjoyed with a side of vegetables and a glass of beer. Be sure to try it at restaurants like Daruma and Jingisukan Daikokuya.
3. Hiyajiru: Hiyajiru is a cold soup made with miso paste and served over a bowl of rice. This refreshing and simple dish is perfect for summer months. It is commonly topped with cucumbers, fresh vegetables, and sometimes grilled fish. You can find hiyajiru at traditional Japanese restaurants like Hachikyo and Yoshiya.
4. Zangi: Zangi is a local specialty of deep-fried chicken. The chicken is marinated in a secret sauce, coated in flour, and then deep-fried to perfection. It is often served with tartar sauce and enjoyed as a side dish or a snack. Some popular zangi restaurants in Asahikawa include Yukidaruma and Tori no Iru Buta.
Restaurants
Ramen Santouka
Located in the heart of Asahikawa, Ramen Santouka is famous for its delicious Asahikawa ramen. The rich and flavorful broth combined with their perfectly cooked noodles will satisfy your ramen cravings.
Ichikura
With numerous branches throughout Asahikawa, Ichikura is another popular ramen spot in the city. Their Asahikawa ramen is known for its aromatic soy-based broth and generous toppings. Don't forget to try their gyoza (dumplings) as well!
Daruma
If you're in the mood for Jingisukan, Daruma is the place to go. Located in the Susukino area, this restaurant offers a wide variety of lamb and vegetable options that you can grill to perfection right at your table.
Jingisukan Daikokuya
Jingisukan Daikokuya is another popular Jingisukan restaurant in Asahikawa. They use high-quality ingredients and offer a cozy atmosphere for you to enjoy this local specialty. Their menu also includes other delicious Hokkaido dishes.
Hachikyo
For those seeking Hiyajiru, Hachikyo is the go-to restaurant. They serve a variety of hiyajiru options, each with its unique twist of flavors. The relaxing ambiance and friendly service make it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Yoshiya
Yoshiya is a traditional Japanese restaurant that specializes in Hiyajiru. Their menu features other seasonal dishes made with fresh ingredients sourced locally. Enjoy their culinary offerings in a traditional tatami room.
Yukidaruma
If you're looking to satisfy your craving for zangi, head over to Yukidaruma. Their crispy and flavorful deep-fried chicken is a local favorite. Order a plate of zangi along with their homemade tartar sauce for a truly satisfying experience.
Tori no Iru Buta
Tori no Iru Buta is another popular zangi restaurant in Asahikawa. Their juicy and succulent chicken is served with a variety of dipping sauces, allowing you to customize your zangi experience. Be sure to try their other yakitori dishes as well.
Recipes
Asahikawa Ramen Recipe
- Ingredients:
- - 1 pack of ramen noodles
- - 2 cups of chicken or pork broth
- - 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
- - 1 teaspoon of miso paste
- - Char siu pork, sliced
- - Green onions, chopped
- - Kamaboko (fish cake), sliced
- - Nori seaweed, shredded
- Instructions:
- 1. Cook the ramen noodles according to the package instructions.
- 2. In a separate pot, heat the broth and add soy sauce and miso paste. Stir well until the miso paste is dissolved.
- 3. Place the cooked noodles in a bowl and pour the hot broth over them.
- 4. Top with char siu pork, green onions, kamaboko, and shredded nori seaweed.
- 5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Jingisukan Recipe
- Ingredients:
- - 1 pound of lamb, thinly sliced
- - 1 onion, sliced
- - 2 bell peppers, sliced
- - 1/4 cup soy sauce
- - 2 tablespoons mirin (Japanese sweet rice wine)
- - 1 tablespoon sake
- - 1 tablespoon honey
- - Vegetable oil
- Instructions:
- 1. In a bowl, mix together soy sauce, mirin, sake, and honey to make the marinade.
- 2. Marinate the lamb slices in the sauce for at least 30 minutes.
- 3. Heat some vegetable oil in a hot plate or grill pan.
- 4. Place the marinated lamb slices, onions, and bell peppers on the hot plate and grill until cooked.
- 5. Serve hot with a side of steamed rice and enjoy!