Eikando

About Aomori Prefecture Gourmet

Aomori Prefecture boasts many traditional dishes that have been beloved by locals for generations. In particular, “Senbei-jiru” (rice cracker soup), “Towada Bara-yaki” (grilled beef rib), and “Tsuyu Yakisoba” (broth-based fried noodles) are known as representative local dishes of Aomori Prefecture. These dishes strongly reflect the rich nature and culture of Aomori, featuring distinctive flavors made with local ingredients. When traveling or sightseeing, be sure to experience these unique Aomori flavors.

In coastal areas, “Ichigoni” (a soup featuring fresh sea urchin and abalone) is a distinctive dish that lets you savor Aomori’s rich bounty from the sea.

3 Select Gourmet Foods of Aomori Prefecture

Senbei-jiru (Rice Cracker Soup)

Highlights of Senbei-jiru

Senbei-jiru is a unique local dish of Aomori Prefecture, a distinctive soup made with Nanbu senbei (rice crackers). The dish is characterized by the addition of senbei soaked in rich broth along with abundant ingredients such as chicken, vegetables, and mushrooms. When simmered, the senbei develops a unique chewy texture, providing an exquisite warming flavor perfect for cold winters. By utilizing locally harvested ingredients, this dish reflects the natural richness of Aomori.

History of Senbei-jiru

The history of Senbei-jiru began with the meals of people working outdoors in the Hachinohe area of Aomori Prefecture. Originally, Nanbu senbei were chosen as an ingredient that was easy to cook and carry during outdoor work, and were simmered on the spot with other ingredients.

This practical aspect was adopted at family dining tables and developed into a customary dish of Aomori residents. Over time, incorporating locally-rooted ingredients gave rise to various variations, establishing it as a representative local dish of Aomori Prefecture.

Best Place to Eat Senbei-jiru!!

• Restaurant Name: Minato Shokudo
  
• Appeal:
  Minato Shokudoでは、特に「平目漬け丼とせんべい汁セット」が人気で、八戸の新鮮な海の幸を存分に楽しむことができると同時に、地元で愛され続けるせんべい汁を味わうことができます。美しく盛り付けられた平目の漬けは、見た目も鮮やかで、ヒラメの自然な旨味と柔らかな食感が楽しめます。
  Many tourists and locals visit the restaurant from early morning. Due to its popularity, you may need to write your name and phone number on a list and wait in line upon arrival.
  
• Address: 45-1 Kubo, Minato-machi, Hachinohe City
  
• Access: 3-minute walk from JR Mutsu-Minato Station
  
• Google Maps：https://maps.app.goo.gl/SSY1SmwG7PCUS1Sk9

Tsuyu Yakisoba (Broth-based Fried Noodles)

Highlights of Tsuyu Yakisoba

The appeal of Tsuyu Yakisoba lies in its unique flavor and history rooted in food culture. While regular yakisoba is sauce-based, Tsuyu Yakisoba uses Japanese-style broth, characterized by how the broth flavor intertwines with the noodles. The broth has a deep flavor using seafood and kelp, and the noodles are often the flat “Taihei-men” unique to Kuroishi City. The ability to enjoy diverse flavors through different broth recipes and toppings at each restaurant is one of its great charms.

Moreover, Tsuyu Yakisoba holds value not merely as a meal but as a local dish through which you can experience the culture and history of Aomori Prefecture.

History of Tsuyu Yakisoba

The history of Tsuyu Yakisoba is said to have begun in the late 1950s in Kuroishi City, Aomori Prefecture. The dish originated from using local “Taihei-men” noodles served with a special broth. The first restaurant to serve this style is said to be “Mimasu,” after which the dish was trademarked as “Original Tsuyu Yakisoba” and became widely accepted locally.

Over time, Tsuyu Yakisoba has gained nationwide recognition as a representative B-class gourmet dish of Aomori Prefecture, with many restaurants serving the dish with their own unique recipes. The history of this dish symbolizes the region’s food culture and plays an important role in the society and culture of Kuroishi City, Aomori Prefecture.

Best Place to Eat Tsuyu Yakisoba!!

• Restaurant Name: Myoko Shokudo
• Appeal:
  “Myoko Shokudo” is a restaurant in Kuroishi City, Aomori Prefecture, credited with reviving Tsuyu Yakisoba. The restaurant claims to be the originator of Tsuyu Yakisoba, with its distinctive feature being the use of ramen soup. In contrast, “Mimasu,” considered another place of origin for Tsuyu Yakisoba, used soba broth.
  Tsuyu Yakisoba uses thick flat noodles unique to Kuroishi, with a seafood-flavored broth made by adding ramen dashi to sauce, featuring a well-balanced mix of pork, cabbage, onion, carrot, green pepper, and bean sprouts. Green onion and tempura crumbs are added as toppings. The dish is reasonably priced at 650 yen, and the menu also includes other noodle dishes and rice bowls.
  The interior of Myoko Shokudo features a large kite decorated with a striking Nebuta painting on the ceiling, reportedly painted by the proprietress herself. The restaurant is bustling with local regulars including families, and its homey atmosphere is one of its charms.
• Address: 66 Oaza Motomachi, Kuroishi City, Aomori
  
• Access: 10-15 minute walk from “Kuroishi” Station on the Konan Railway Konan Line, 700m from Sakaimatsu Station
  
• Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/2vrpe6zX5EQgA1jh9