Fukushima Local Cuisine: Dishes, Restaurants, Recipes

Fukushima Local Cuisine: A Culinary Journey through Fukushima Prefecture

Fukushima, located in the Tohoku region of Japan, boasts a rich culinary tradition that reflects its history, culture, and natural resources. The local cuisine of Fukushima features a variety of dishes that highlight the region's pristine environment and the skillful craftsmanship of its chefs. From fresh seafood to mountain vegetables, Fukushima offers a diverse range of flavors for food enthusiasts to explore.

Traditional Fukushima Dishes

One of the most famous dishes from Fukushima is Kenchin-jiru, a hearty soup made with root vegetables, tofu, and shiitake mushrooms. This vegetarian dish is not only delicious but also a staple in Buddhist temple cuisine.

Another must-try dish is Kitakata Ramen, a type of ramen noodles that originated in the city of Kitakata. Known for its thick, curly noodles and flavorful soy sauce-based broth, Kitakata Ramen is a favorite comfort food among locals and visitors alike.

For seafood lovers, the Surumeika (dried squid) from the coastal town of Iwaki is a popular snack that showcases the region's abundance of fresh seafood. The squid is dried using traditional methods, resulting in a chewy and flavorful treat.

Restaurants to Experience Fukushima Cuisine

• Hanamomo - Located in Fukushima City, Hanamomo offers a cozy atmosphere and a menu featuring authentic Fukushima dishes such as Sansai Tempura (wild vegetable tempura) and Tofu Dengaku (grilled tofu).
• Kitakata Ramen Bansho - This renowned ramen shop in Kitakata is a must-visit for ramen enthusiasts. Enjoy a steaming bowl of Kitakata Ramen served with tender chashu pork and marinated bamboo shoots.
• Uroko - Situated in Aizuwakamatsu, Uroko specializes in seafood dishes using fresh catches from the nearby Sea of Japan. Don't miss their signature dish, Surumeika sashimi.

Recipes to Try at Home

Want to recreate Fukushima's flavors in your own kitchen? Here are two traditional recipes to try:

Kenchin-jiru Recipe:

1. Ingredients: Burdock root, carrots, taro root, shiitake mushrooms, tofu, konnyaku noodles, dashi broth, soy sauce, sake, mirin.
2. Directions: 1. Sauté vegetables in a pot. 2. Add dashi broth and seasonings. 3. Simmer until vegetables are tender. 4. Add tofu and konnyaku. 5. Serve hot.

Surumeika Snack Recipe:

1. Ingredients: Fresh squid, soy sauce, sugar, mirin, sake.
2. Directions: 1. Clean squid and score the flesh. 2. Marinate in soy sauce, sugar, mirin, and sake. 3. Dry the squid using traditional methods. 4. Enjoy as a tasty snack!