Ikameshi

Ikameshi is a traditional Japanese dish that originated in Hokkaido, the northernmost island of Japan. The dish is a type of sushi that features whole squid stuffed with glutinous rice, which is then simmered in a sweet and savory soy sauce based broth.

History

Ikameshi was first created during World War II, when rice was scarce and people had to find creative ways to extend their food supplies. The dish was invented in Mori, a town in southern Hokkaido, by a local restaurant owner. The owner used squid, which was plentiful in the area, to bulk up the dish and make it more filling. Since then, Ikameshi has become a popular dish throughout Japan, particularly in Hokkaido.

Preparation

The preparation of Ikameshi involves several steps. First, the squid is cleaned and the tentacles are removed. The body of the squid is then stuffed with glutinous rice that has been pre-cooked and seasoned with soy sauce, mirin, and sugar. The stuffed squid is then simmered in a broth made from soy sauce, sugar, and mirin until the squid is tender and the flavors have melded together. The dish is typically served with the simmering broth and garnished with chopped green onions.

Cultural Significance

Ikameshi is more than just a dish in Hokkaido; it's a part of the region's cultural heritage. It represents the resourcefulness and resilience of the people during difficult times. Today, Ikameshi is a popular dish at local festivals and is also sold as a specialty product in train stations and souvenir shops.

Variations

While the traditional Ikameshi uses whole squid, there are also variations of the dish. Some versions use cuttlefish or octopus instead of squid. Others add additional ingredients to the stuffing, such as vegetables or other types of seafood.

See Also

• Japanese cuisine
• Sushi
• Hokkaido