Fukuoka Prefecture is surrounded by four seas and blessed with fertile land, making it an area rich in fresh seafood and high-quality agricultural products. For this reason, it has long been known as a "treasure trove of food," satisfying the hearts and stomachs of visitors. In this article, we will introduce in detail the famous dishes and local products that you definitely must try when visiting Fukuoka.
Mizutaki
Mizutaki, a famous local dish from Fukuoka, is characterized by a clear soup made by slowly simmering chicken.
The chicken used is generally cut into chunks with the skin and bones still attached, and the flavor is extracted from the bones by simmering. The rule is to drink the soup as is at first, and adding spices such as spring onions and yuzu pepper adds depth of flavor. In addition to chicken, the ingredients also include vegetables and tofu, making it extremely nutritionally balanced. The traditional way to finish is to make rice porridge with rice and eggs, and a bowl soaked in the flavor of the concentrated soup is unforgettably delicious.
Tonkotsu ramen
Kurume is known as the birthplace of tonkotsu ramen, a B-class gourmet dish that represents Fukuoka.
The cloudy soup, created by simmering pork bones for a long time, is rich yet odorless, with a creamy taste. The noodles are mostly thin, and the appeal is that they mix perfectly with the soup. You can also have fun tailoring it to your own taste by adding toppings such as spring onions, roasted pork, and wood ear mushrooms, as well as pickled ginger and mustard greens. This flavor, which started out as a food stall, has now become a popular dish all over the world.
Yame tea
Yame tea, produced in Yame City in the southern part of Fukuoka Prefecture, is a high-quality tea that is highly regarded both domestically and internationally.
Among them, "Yame Traditional Hon Gyokuro" is particularly famous, characterized by its strong fragrance and rich, mellow flavor. It is grown using a unique method called shade cultivation, which allows you to enjoy a taste that is different from other teas. The key to Yame tea is to brew it slowly using low water temperature, which brings out the rich flavor to the fullest.
Yakitori
Contrary to the image of yakitori in other parts of Japan, Fukuoka yakitori uses not only chicken but also pork belly as the main ingredient. The fatty pork belly is juicy and is eaten with a mountain of cabbage on the side, which is the Fukuoka way.
Furthermore, the Hakata specialty "torikawa" is a dish of chicken skin rolled up and grilled until crispy, with an addictive texture and rich flavor. You can experience its charm not only in Fukuoka city, but also in Kurume city, which has the highest density of yakitori restaurants in Japan.
Spicy cod roe
Spicy mentaiko, a specialty product representative of Fukuoka, is made by soaking pollock roe in chili peppers and seasonings, and is characterized by its spicy flavor.
It is a standard accompaniment to rice, but it is also used in a wide variety of dishes, such as pasta, tamagoyaki, and rice crackers. Fukuoka is the largest producer of mentaiko in Japan, and one of its attractions is the wide variety of flavors available. It is also very popular as a souvenir, so be sure to find your favorite item.
Udon
Fukuoka udon is characterized by its soft and fluffy texture.
It is said to have been introduced from China during the Kamakura period, and is still loved today as Fukuoka's soul food. Popular toppings include burdock tempura and maruten (fried minced fish paste), both of which are very filling and satisfying. Adding yuzu pepper adds a refreshing flavor that makes it even more enjoyable.
Motsunabe
"Motsunabe," a classic Fukuoka hot pot dish, is a stamina-boosting dish made by simmering fresh offal with plenty of chives and cabbage.
The soup is made with soy sauce and miso, and has a rich flavor with a hint of garlic. Chanpon noodles or porridge are the standard way to finish off the hot pot, allowing you to enjoy the soup to the last drop. The unique style of serving it in a shallow stainless steel pot is also a unique charm of this dish.
Amaou
The name of the brand of strawberry that Fukuoka takes pride in, "Amaou," is derived from the initials of the words "red," "round," "big," and "delicious."
The large fruits and rich sweetness are unforgettable once you try them. Strawberry picking is an experience unique to Fukuoka, and you can taste fresh Amaou strawberries all over the prefecture. It is a Fukuoka specialty that is proud of the world, and has a proven track record as a Guinness World Record holder.
Japanese sake
Fukuoka is actually one of Japan's leading sake producing areas, and the locally produced sake is known for its rich flavor.
The combination of fresh ingredients and sake in Fukuoka is excellent, enhancing the deliciousness of the food. In particular, there is a wide lineup of sake, from sweet to dry, making this a must-see for sake lovers.
Fugu cuisine
Kanezaki Fishing Port in Munakata City, Fukuoka Prefecture, is the prefecture's largest producer of wild pufferfish.
Fugu, which is in season in winter, can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, such as sashimi, hotpot, fried, etc. Once you try it, you'll be hooked on the firm texture of the flesh and the light, refined flavor.
Fukuoka's food culture is characterized by a wide variety of flavors that are full of the local climate and history. All of them are things you'll want to try at least once. Take this opportunity to enjoy Fukuoka's food to the fullest!
