- #Local specialty
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ウツボの唐揚げ
Utsubo no Karaage is a local dish from Kochi Prefecture, made by frying moray eel. Despite its fearsome appearance, it has fragrant crispy skin and tender, springy white flesh.

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カツオのたたき
Katsuo no tataki is seared bonito sashimi and a specialty of Kochi Prefecture. Also called “Tosa-zukuri,” the straw-seared version is especially aromatic and flavorful.
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きりたんぽ鍋
Kiritanpo Nabe is a traditional hot pot from Akita Prefecture, featuring grilled mashed rice skewers called kiritanpo. It’s simmered with chicken, burdock, and mushrooms in Hinai chicken broth, where the rice absorbs the rich umami flavor.

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黒造り
Kurozukuri is a type of salted squid enhanced with squid ink, known for its rich umami and deep flavor. Often enjoyed with sake.

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けんちん汁
Kenchin-jiru is a soup made by sautéing root vegetables and tofu in sesame oil before simmering them in broth. Originally a Buddhist vegetarian dish, it avoids meat and fish.

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三平汁
Sanpei-jiru is a traditional soup from Hokkaido made with salted salmon or other fish. The broth is seasoned only with the salt from the fish, creating a simple yet rich flavor enhanced by kelp and root vegetables. A comforting winter dish.

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冷や汁
Hiyajiru is a local dish from Miyazaki, made by mixing miso with chilled broth and adding cucumber, tofu, and herbs. It is often poured over rice, refreshing in hot summer, and pairs well with drinks.

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豚の角煮
A dish of pork belly simmered in soy sauce, sugar, and sake until tender. The fat becomes soft and rich, creating a melt-in-the-mouth texture. While little known in the West, it is a beloved dish in Japanese homes and izakaya.
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ほうとう
Hōtō is a traditional dish from Yamanashi Prefecture, featuring thick flat noodles, pumpkin, and root vegetables simmered in miso broth. Especially comforting on cold days.

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水炊き
Mizutaki is a local dish from Fukuoka, made by simmering chicken in plain water to extract natural flavors. Unlike other hot pots, it is not seasoned with soy sauce or salt during cooking.

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明太子
Mentaiko is spicy cod roe seasoned with chili. Its unique spicy flavor makes it a versatile ingredient in dishes like pasta, grilled mentaiko, squid with mentaiko, and rice balls.

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もつ鍋
Motsunabe is a local dish from Fukuoka, a hot pot of beef or pork offal with vegetables. It is hearty and ends with noodles or rice porridge.
