Hokkaido Cuisine: Local Dishes, Restaurants & Recipes

Hokkaido Cuisine: Local Dishes, Restaurants & Recipes

Hokkaido, the northernmost island of Japan, boasts a rich culinary tradition that is influenced by its cold climate, abundant seafood, and fertile land. The cuisine of Hokkaido is known for its fresh ingredients, unique flavors, and hearty dishes that warm the soul.

Local Dishes

• Genghis Khan Grilled Lamb: A popular dish where thinly sliced lamb and vegetables are grilled on a dome-shaped skillet at the table.
• Seafood Donburi: A bowl of rice topped with a variety of fresh seafood such as sea urchin, salmon roe, and crab.
• Jingisukan: Grilled mutton or lamb dish, similar to Genghis Khan but with a different marinade.
• Squid Sashimi: Fresh squid thinly sliced and served with soy sauce and wasabi.
• Ramen: Hokkaido is famous for its rich and flavorful miso ramen topped with butter and corn.

Restaurants

If you find yourself in Hokkaido, be sure to visit these renowned restaurants:

1. Asahikawa Ramen Aoba: A popular ramen shop in Asahikawa known for its rich miso ramen.
2. Soup Curry Kamui: Located in Sapporo, this restaurant serves delicious and spicy soup curry.
3. Otaru Masazushi: A famous sushi restaurant in Otaru known for its fresh seafood and unique sushi creations.
4. Lucky Pierrot: A quirky burger chain in Hakodate that offers a variety of creative burgers and fries.
5. Shakotan Peninsula Coast House: Enjoy fresh seafood with a stunning view of the coast at this restaurant in Shakotan.

Recipes

Try your hand at creating these Hokkaido specialties at home:

1. Genghis Khan Grilled Lamb: Marinate thinly sliced lamb with soy sauce, sake, garlic, and ginger. Grill with vegetables and enjoy with dipping sauce.
2. Miso Ramen: Make a rich miso broth with pork and chicken, and top with ramen noodles, butter, corn, and green onions.
3. Seafood Donburi: Create a colorful bowl by topping steamed rice with fresh seafood such as sea urchin, salmon roe, and crab.