Table of Contents

Ibaraki Cuisine

Kasama Zuke (笠間漬け)

Kasama Zuke is a local specialty pickled dish from Kasama City in Ibaraki. It typically involves pickling vegetables like cucumbers, radishes, and eggplants in a sweet and tangy soy-based marinade. 1)

Hitachi Wagyu (ひたち和牛)

Hitachi Wagyu refers to high-quality beef from the Hitachi region of Ibaraki. It is known for its marbling and tenderness, making it a sought-after ingredient for grilling or hot pot dishes. 2)

Kenchinjiru (けんちん汁)

Kenchinjiru is a hearty vegetable soup that originated in the Buddhist temples of Ibaraki. It typically includes root vegetables, tofu, mushrooms, and sometimes seafood, simmered in a soy-based broth. 3)

Natto (納豆)

Natto, fermented soybeans, is a staple in Ibaraki cuisine. It is often eaten with rice for breakfast and is known for its strong flavor and sticky texture. 4)

Isohara Seaweed (磯原の海藻)

Isohara, located on the coast of Ibaraki, is known for its high-quality seaweed. Various types of seaweed are harvested and used in dishes such as salads, soups, and sushi. 5)

Tsuchiura Senbei (土浦煎餅)

Tsuchiura Senbei are traditional rice crackers from Tsuchiura City in Ibaraki. They come in various flavors and are often enjoyed as snacks or souvenirs. 6)

Hitachi Ame (ひたち飴)

Hitachi Ame is a type of candy from Ibaraki, known for its sweet and chewy texture. It often comes in various fruit flavors and is a popular treat for both locals and visitors. 7)

Ibaraki Oyama Rice (茨城大山米)

Ibaraki Oyama Rice is a local rice variety known for its high quality and is often used in traditional Ibaraki dishes. It has a distinctive flavor and texture. 8)

Kasama Udon (笠間うどん)

Kasama Udon is a local variation of udon noodles, known for its thick and chewy texture. It is often served in a hot soy-based broth with various toppings. 9)

Ibaraki Kiritanpo (茨城きりたんぽ)

Ibaraki Kiritanpo is a dish inspired by the traditional Akita cuisine. It involves skewering mashed rice around a stick and grilling it, often served with miso soup. 10)

Hitachi Beef Tamago Sushi (ひたち牛たまご寿司)

This sushi variation features Hitachi Wagyu beef and a layer of sweet scrambled eggs (tamago) on top of vinegared rice, creating a delicious and indulgent treat. 11)

Shiitake Nigiri (しいたけにぎり)

Ibaraki is known for its shiitake mushrooms, and Shiitake Nigiri is a type of sushi where fresh shiitake mushrooms are placed on top of small beds of rice and served with soy sauce. 12)

Ibaraki Konyaku (茨城こんにゃく)

Ibaraki is famous for its high-quality konyaku, a jelly-like food made from konjac yam. It is often used in hot pots and stews. 13)

Hitachi Pork Donburi (ひたちポーク丼)

Hitachi Pork Donburi features thinly sliced and grilled Hitachi pork served over a bowl of rice. It's a flavorful and filling dish. 14)

Ibaraki Prefecture Mikan (茨城みかん)

Ibaraki is known for its delicious mikan (mandarin oranges). The sweet and juicy mikan are often enjoyed fresh or used in desserts and juices. 15)