If you’re a foodie, Aichi is a must-visit destination in Japan. This central prefecture offers an impressive array of delicious dishes that will tantalize your taste buds. From savory to sweet, Aichi has it all. Here are 10 delicious foods you simply have to try when you visit.
First up is Miso Katsu, a beloved local dish that features juicy pork cutlets coated in a thick, savory miso sauce. It’s a heavenly blend of crispy and tender textures, with the miso adding a burst of umami flavor. If you’re a fan of tonkatsu, you’re sure to fall in love with Miso Katsu as well.
So, get ready to dive into Aichi’s culinary scene and embark on a food adventure like no other.
Key Takeaways
- Aichi is a must-visit destination for foodies in Japan, offering a diverse and delicious culinary scene influenced by its history and geography.
- Local dishes like Miso Katsu, Hitsumabushi, Tebasaki Chicken Wings, and Tenmusu are beloved by locals and visitors alike.
- Aichi’s desserts, including Stella cake, mochi filled with sweet red bean paste, and Oyaki, are must-try treats.
- Aichi’s food festivals and sake breweries offer additional opportunities to explore the region’s rich food culture.
Miso Katsu
You’ve got to try the mouthwatering Miso Katsu – it’ll leave you craving for more!
This dish is a specialty of Aichi, made with tender pork cutlets that are deep-fried to golden perfection. But what sets Miso Katsu apart from other fried cutlet dishes is the thick and savory miso-based sauce that is generously slathered on top.
The sauce is made by simmering miso paste and other seasonings with pork broth until it becomes thick and rich. When poured over the crispy cutlets, it creates a delicious contrast of flavors and textures – the crunchy exterior of the cutlet and the smooth and savory sauce.
This dish is usually served with a bowl of rice and some pickles on the side, making it a hearty and satisfying meal.
Give Miso Katsu a try and discover why it has become a beloved dish in Aichi.
Hitsumabushi
If you’re looking for a unique and authentic dish to try in Aichi, make sure to order the Hitsumabushi. This dish is a traditional Nagoya-style grilled eel served on top of a bed of rice, with a special broth and condiments. The dish is usually served with a wooden bowl, divided into four sections, each with a different ingredient to add to the dish.
The first section is the eel, which is grilled until crispy and then sliced into bite-sized pieces. The second section is the rice, which is flavored with the special broth made from dashi, soy sauce, and mirin. The third section is the condiments, which usually include green onions, wasabi, and nori (dried seaweed). The final section is the broth, which is poured over the eel and rice to create a delicious and flavorful dish. Don’t forget to try mixing the ingredients together in different ways for a unique and exciting taste experience!
| Ingredient | Description |
|---|---|
| Eel | Grilled until crispy and sliced into bite-sized pieces |
| Rice | Flavored with a special broth made from dashi, soy sauce, and mirin |
| Condiments | Usually include green onions, wasabi, and nori (dried seaweed) |
| Broth | Poured over the eel and rice to create a delicious and flavorful dish |
Overall, the Hitsumabushi is a must-try dish in Aichi. Its unique combination of flavors and textures make for a truly unforgettable culinary experience. So, if you’re looking for a dish that is both authentic and delicious, be sure to give the Hitsumabushi a try!
Tebasaki Chicken Wings
When in Aichi, don’t miss out on the Tebasaki Chicken Wings – they’re a local favorite! These wings are not your typical buffalo wings, but rather they’re coated in a sweet and savory sauce made of soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger. The wings are then fried to perfection, resulting in a crispy and juicy texture that’ll leave you wanting more.
Tebasaki Chicken Wings are a staple dish in Aichi, and it’s not hard to see why. The combination of flavors in the sauce makes for a unique and addicting taste that you won’t find anywhere else. And the best part? They’re served in most izakayas (Japanese-style pubs) throughout the city, so you can easily find a spot to try them out.
So, when in Aichi, make sure to give these wings a try – you won’t regret it!
Tenmusu
Indulge in the mouth-watering flavors of Tenmusu, a delectable dish that combines the goodness of tempura shrimp and rice wrapped in a crispy nori sheet. This dish is a specialty of Aichi, and you can find it in most of the local restaurants and food stalls.
The dish is made by wrapping a freshly cooked tempura shrimp in a layer of vinegared rice and then wrapping it with a crispy nori sheet. The combination of the crispy nori and the soft and fluffy rice with the juicy and succulent shrimp is simply irresistible.
The dish is so popular that it has become a staple food for many locals and tourists alike. It’s also served with a dipping sauce made with soy sauce, dashi, and mirin, which adds a perfect balance of sweetness and saltiness to the dish. If you haven’t tried Tenmusu yet, you’re missing out on one of the most delicious dishes Aichi has to offer.
Kishimen
If you’re a fan of noodle dishes, you’ll definitely want to try Kishimen when you’re in Aichi.
This dish features flat, wide noodles in a clear broth that’s both savory and refreshing.
Kishimen is often served with toppings such as scallions and fish cakes, adding even more flavor and texture to an already delicious meal.
A Noodle Dish from Aichi
You’ll definitely want to try the noodle dish from Aichi, which is a local specialty and a must-try for any food enthusiast visiting the area. This dish is called ‘miso katsu’, which consists of crispy deep-fried pork cutlet and thick noodles in a delicious miso-based sauce.
If you love savory and hearty flavors, you’ll surely enjoy this dish that is loved by locals and visitors alike.
To fully appreciate this dish, here are some things you should know before trying it out:
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The pork cutlet is coated with panko breadcrumbs and deep-fried until it becomes crispy on the outside while remaining juicy on the inside.
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The noodles used in this dish are thicker than usual, giving it a chewy texture that complements the tender pork cutlet.
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The miso-based sauce is the star of the dish, which is made from a blend of miso paste, dashi broth, and other secret ingredients that give it a rich and complex flavor.
Overall, ‘miso katsu’ is a satisfying and flavorful dish that embodies the taste of Aichi cuisine. So, make sure to add it to your food itinerary when you visit the area and experience the delicious flavors that Aichi has to offer!
Flat, Wide Noodles in a Clear Broth
Get ready to slurp up some mouth-watering flat, wide noodles in a clear broth that will leave you feeling satisfied and comforted. This dish is called Hirauchi kaedama and it is a popular dish in Aichi. The flat, wide noodles are made from wheat flour and water, and they are cooked until they are perfectly soft and chewy.
The clear broth is made from a mixture of dashi, soy sauce, and mirin. It has a subtle umami flavor that perfectly complements the noodles. To add some texture and flavor, the dish is usually topped with green onions, kamaboko, and nori. If you’re looking for a comforting and delicious noodle dish, Hirauchi kaedama is definitely worth a try. To give you a better idea of what to expect from this dish, here is a table that breaks down the different components of the dish:
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Flat, wide noodles | Soft and chewy noodles made from wheat flour and water |
| Clear broth | A mixture of dashi, soy sauce, and mirin with a subtle umami flavor |
| Toppings | Green onions, kamaboko, and nori to add texture and flavor |
This dish is perfect for a comforting meal on a cold day or when you’re in need of some comfort food. So, why not give Hirauchi kaedama a try and see for yourself why it’s such a beloved dish in Aichi?
Served with Toppings Such as Scallions and Fish Cakes
Indulge in the mouth-watering experience of savouring flat, wide noodles in a clear broth, topped with scallions and fish cakes, for a perfect blend of flavours and textures. This dish is a popular traditional cuisine of Aichi, and it’s known for its simplicity and rustic charm.
The soup is made by simmering pork or chicken bones with vegetables such as onions and carrots. This results in a clear and flavourful broth that is light yet satisfying. The noodles are made from wheat flour and water, kneaded and rolled out into thin sheets before being cut into wide strips.
They are cooked until al dente, retaining their chewy texture that complements the clear broth. The toppings of scallions and fish cakes add a burst of freshness and umami flavour. This makes this dish a favourite amongst locals and tourists alike. Don’t miss out on this delicious bowl of comfort food during your visit to Aichi!
Anko Mochi
If you’re looking for a sweet treat to try in Aichi, you should definitely check out Anko Mochi. This popular snack or dessert is made up of small balls of mochi that are filled with sweet red bean paste.
With its chewy texture and delicious flavor, Anko Mochi is a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth.
A Sweet Treat
Satisfy your sweet tooth with the mouth-watering castella cake from Aichi, a soft and fluffy dessert perfect for any occasion. This Japanese sponge cake is made with simple ingredients such as sugar, flour, eggs, and honey.
What makes it unique is the special baking technique that gives the cake its signature texture. The cake has a slight sweetness that isn’t overpowering, making it a perfect treat for those who prefer a milder taste.
The airy and spongy texture of the cake is what makes it stand out from other desserts. It’s so light that it practically melts in your mouth, leaving you with a satisfying feeling.
You can find castella cake in many bakeries and cafes in Aichi, but some of the best ones are made by local artisans who have been perfecting the recipe for generations.
Don’t miss out on this delicious sweet treat when you’re visiting Aichi!
Mochi Filled with Sweet Red Bean Paste
You’ll be delighted to discover the delicate and flavorful mochi filled with sweet red bean paste, a beloved Japanese dessert that is a must-try during your visit to Aichi.
This traditional sweet treat is made by pounding glutinous rice into a soft and chewy texture, which is then stuffed with a smooth and sweet red bean paste filling. The combination of the soft and slightly sticky mochi with the rich and creamy red bean paste creates a unique and satisfying taste experience that is sure to leave you wanting more.
If you’re looking to indulge in this delicious dessert, here are three places in Aichi where you can find the best mochi filled with sweet red bean paste:
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Anko-an: This popular mochi shop in Nagoya offers a variety of mochi flavors, but their signature sweet red bean paste filling is a must-try.
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Saisendo: Located in the historic city of Inuyama, Saisendo has been making mochi since 1909. Their mochi is made with locally sourced ingredients and their sweet red bean paste filling is rich and flavorful.
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Ohagiya: This mochi shop in Okazaki is known for their fresh and handmade mochi. Their sweet red bean paste filling is made with high-quality adzuki beans and has a smooth and creamy texture that pairs perfectly with the soft mochi.
A Popular Snack or Dessert
One can easily spot locals and tourists alike enjoying this popular snack or dessert on the bustling streets of Aichi. This delicacy, known as ‘Mochi Filled with Sweet Red Bean Paste’, is a must-try for anyone visiting the region.
The dish consists of soft and chewy mochi, made from glutinous rice flour, filled with a sweet and nutty red bean paste. The popularity of this dish is not surprising. The soft and chewy texture of the mochi, combined with the sweet and nutty filling, creates a unique and delicious flavor that is hard to resist.
The dish can be enjoyed as a snack or dessert, and is often served with a cup of green tea. If you’re looking for an authentic taste of Aichi, be sure to try this popular dish during your visit.
Oyaki
If you’re looking for a hearty snack or meal in Aichi, you should definitely try Oyaki. These dumplings are stuffed with a variety of vegetables or beans, making them a healthy and delicious option.
You can enjoy them steamed or grilled, depending on your preference.
A Hearty Snack or Meal
For a filling meal or snack, try the miso katsu sandwich in Aichi, Japan. This local specialty combines crispy tonkatsu with savory miso sauce and soft bread.
The tonkatsu, a breaded and fried pork cutlet, is made even more delicious with the addition of the miso sauce, which is made from fermented soybeans.
The soft bread completes the sandwich, making it a perfect handheld meal or snack on the go.
The miso katsu sandwich can be found at many restaurants and cafes throughout Aichi, but it’s especially popular at local food stalls and markets.
Its hearty and satisfying combination of flavors and textures make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. If you’re looking for a filling and delicious meal or snack in Aichi, be sure to try the miso katsu sandwich.
Dumplings Stuffed with Vegetables or Beans
You can’t leave Aichi without trying the mouth-watering dumplings stuffed with a variety of vegetables or beans, a beloved local delicacy that will leave you craving for more.
These dumplings, known as ‘nikuman’ or ‘manju’, are steamed buns filled with different kinds of savory fillings. The most popular varieties are stuffed with finely chopped cabbage, mushrooms, carrots, and onions, or with azuki beans, a sweet red bean paste that is a staple in Japanese desserts.
Not only are these dumplings delicious, but they’re also very filling, making them a perfect snack or a meal on the go. You can find them at street vendors, convenience stores, and even at specialized shops that sell only nikuman.
They’re often eaten warm and paired with a cold drink, making for a satisfying and refreshing combination. So, make sure to add these dumplings to your list of must-try foods in Aichi, and enjoy their unique taste and texture.
Steamed or Grilled
Whether you prefer your dumplings steamed or grilled, you’re in for a treat when you visit Aichi. These delectable dishes are a must-try for anyone who loves Japanese cuisine.
Steamed dumplings are a popular choice, with their soft, delicate texture and savory filling. They’re often served with a soy-based dipping sauce that perfectly complements the flavors of the dumplings.
On the other hand, grilled dumplings are a more hearty and robust option. They’re often filled with meat and vegetables, and the grilling process gives them a crispy exterior that’s simply irresistible. The smoky flavor of the grill adds an extra dimension to the dish, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Whether you choose steamed or grilled dumplings, you’re sure to enjoy the delicious flavors and textures that Aichi has to offer.
Kishimen-Nikomi
Indulging in Kishimen-Nikomi, a regional specialty of Aichi, is a must-try experience for anyone visiting the area.
This dish features thick, flat noodles made from wheat flour that are boiled and served in a savory broth made from dashi, soy sauce, and other seasonings.
The noodles are often topped with green onions, kamaboko (fish cake), and tender pieces of chicken or pork.
What sets Kishimen-Nikomi apart from other noodle dishes is the unique texture and flavor of the noodles.
The noodles are chewy and dense, with a satisfyingly firm bite that pairs perfectly with the rich and flavorful broth.
Each spoonful of broth is bursting with umami flavors that will leave you wanting more.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some grated ginger or a splash of vinegar to your bowl to enhance the taste even further.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find the best Tebasaki chicken wings in Aichi?
If you’re on the hunt for the best tebasaki chicken wings in Aichi, you’re in luck! One of the top spots to try is Yamachan, a popular chain restaurant that specializes in tebasaki.
The wings are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, coated in a flavorful sauce that strikes the perfect balance of sweet and savory.
Another great option is Sekai no Yamachan, which also serves up delicious tebasaki wings with a variety of sauce options to choose from.
Whether you prefer them spicy or mild, these chicken wings are sure to satisfy your cravings.
So head on over to one of these spots and indulge in some of the best tebasaki wings Aichi has to offer!
What is the history behind the dish Hitsumabushi?
Hitsumabushi is a traditional dish that originates from Nagoya, Aichi. It consists of grilled eel fillets that are cut into small pieces and served over a bed of rice. What makes this dish unique is the way it is eaten.
The eel and rice are served in a wooden box, and diners can choose to eat it in three different ways: first, they can eat it as is, savoring the eel and rice together. Second, they can add condiments like green onions, wasabi, and seaweed to create a different flavor profile. Finally, they can add hot broth to the remaining eel and rice, creating a soup-like dish.
Hitsumabushi’s history dates back to the Edo period, when people would catch eels in the nearby rivers and cook them over a charcoal fire. The dish has since evolved into a beloved local specialty and is a must-try for anyone visiting Aichi.
Are there any vegetarian options for Tenmusu?
Yes, there are vegetarian options for tenmusu. Tenmusu is a popular dish in Aichi, Japan, which consists of a rice ball filled with shrimp tempura. However, many restaurants offer vegetarian variations of this dish that use vegetables or tofu instead of shrimp.
Some popular vegetarian fillings include eggplant, shiitake mushrooms, and pumpkin. These vegetarian options still retain the delicious flavor and texture of the original dish, making it a great choice for vegetarians looking to try local Aichi cuisine.
So, if you’re a vegetarian visiting Aichi, don’t hesitate to try tenmusu and ask for the vegetarian options available.
What is the difference between Kishimen and Udon noodles?
Kishimen and udon noodles are two popular types of Japanese noodles, but there are some key differences between them.
Kishimen noodles are flat and wide, while udon noodles are thick and cylindrical. They are typically made with wheat flour, salt, and water, and have a chewy texture.
Udon noodles, on the other hand, can be made with a variety of ingredients, including wheat flour, salt, and water, as well as other ingredients like potato starch or tapioca. They are often used in soups and stir-fry dishes.
Kishimen noodles are more commonly served in hotpot dishes or cold salads.
Overall, both noodles are delicious and worth trying if you’re a fan of Japanese cuisine.
Is Anko Mochi a popular dessert in Aichi or is it only found in certain areas?
Anko mochi is a popular dessert in Aichi, especially in the Nagoya area. This sweet treat consists of a sticky rice cake filled with sweet red bean paste, known as anko.
The combination of the chewy rice cake and the sweet filling creates a delightful texture and flavor that is loved by many. You can find anko mochi in many traditional Japanese sweet shops, as well as in convenience stores.
It’s also a popular souvenir to bring back home after visiting Aichi. So, if you’ve got a sweet tooth, don’t hesitate to try anko mochi while in Aichi!
Conclusion
Well done, adventurer! You’ve now discovered the top 10 foods to try in Aichi. From the flavorful Miso Katsu to the savory Hitsumabushi, your taste buds will surely be delighted by the unique flavors of this region.
But it doesn’t stop there. Aichi also offers the delectable Tebasaki Chicken Wings, the mouth-watering Tenmusu, and the satisfying Kishimen. And for those with a sweet tooth, don’t miss out on the Anko Mochi and Oyaki.
Lastly, make sure to try the Kishimen-Nikomi, a hot pot dish that will warm your soul.
Overall, Aichi’s cuisine is a must-try for anyone looking to explore Japan’s diverse culinary scene. Whether you’re a foodie or simply looking for a new culinary adventure, these 10 dishes will not disappoint.
So pack your bags, head to Aichi and savor the unique flavors that await you. Bon appétit!
