Hakata Mentaiko: Fukuoka Food Culture Created by Spicy Cod Roe

Hakata Mentaiko: A National Food Originating from Fukuoka

Spicy cod roe (karashi mentaiko) is a Fukuoka-originating food product made by soaking salted pollock roe (mentaiko) in chili peppers and seasonings. After the war, it was commercialized in Fukuoka with reference to the Korean "myeongnan-jeot," and is now a popular food throughout Japan and worldwide.

History of Mentaiko

Fukuoka mentaiko started when "Fukuya" in Hakata commercialized it in 1949. Founder Kawahara Toshio was inspired to recreate the taste of spicy mentaiko he ate on the Korean Peninsula. Many manufacturers including "Fukuya," "Yamaya," and "Kanefuku" compete today.

Ways to Eat Mentaiko

Mentaiko is a standard accompaniment to rice and onigiri filling, but there are diverse ways to eat it including spaghetti, cream sauce, ochazuke, egg-on-rice, and with French bread. In Fukuoka, "mentaiko onigiri" and "mentaiko ochazuke" are standard breakfast fare.

Mentaiko as Souvenir

Various manufacturers' mentaiko line shops at Fukuoka Airport, Hakata Station, and Tenjin souvenir stores. Since fresh mentaiko requires refrigeration and has a short shelf life, vacuum packs and processed products are popular for gifts.

Access

Available for purchase throughout the city at Hakata Station "Hakata Deitos," Tenjin underground shopping mall, and other locations. Factory tours are also accepted at "Fukuya" Nakasu main store (reservations required).