たい焼き （たいやき / Taiyaki）
Fish-shaped sweet pastry
- Category
- Sweets / Dessert
- Main Ingredient
- Others
Taiyaki is a fish-shaped pastry usually filled with sweet red bean paste. The traditional single-mold style is called “natural,” while mass-produced ones are humorously called “farmed.” It has a crispy shell and soft interior.
When / How to Eat
Taiyaki is typically eaten warm by hand, often found at festivals or as a cozy winter snack.
Cultural Background
Taiyaki originated in the Meiji era and spread nationwide as a popular sweet. The sea bream shape symbolizes good fortune, and the “natural” and “farmed” labels reflect Japan’s playful humor.
Cautions
The filling can be very hot when freshly baked, so be careful when eating.