Three great noodles of Morioka

Overview of the three famous noodle dishes from Morioka, Japan

Three great noodles of Morioka

The Three Great Noodles of Morioka refer to a trio of distinctive noodle dishes that are a culinary hallmark of Morioka, the capital city of Iwate Prefecture in Japan. These dishes are Morioka Reimen, Jajamen, and Wanko Soba. Each of these noodles has a unique history and preparation method, reflecting the cultural influences and local ingredients of the region.

Morioka Reimen

Morioka Reimen is a cold noodle dish that was inspired by Korean cuisine, particularly the Korean dish known as Naengmyeon. It was introduced to Morioka in the 1950s by a Korean immigrant. The noodles are made from potato starch and wheat flour, giving them a chewy texture. They are typically served in a chilled, spicy beef broth, garnished with slices of beef, boiled egg, cucumber, and kimchi. The dish is especially popular during the hot summer months.

Jajamen

Jajamen is a noodle dish that draws inspiration from the Chinese dish Zhajiangmian. It consists of thick, flat noodles topped with a savory meat sauce made from minced pork, miso, and soybean paste. The dish is often garnished with chopped cucumber, green onions, and ginger. A unique aspect of Jajamen is the custom of adding a raw egg and hot broth to the leftover sauce and noodles at the end of the meal, creating a soup known as "chi-tan-tan."

Wanko Soba

Wanko Soba is a traditional Japanese noodle dish that is served in small bowls. The name "wanko" refers to the small wooden bowls used to serve the noodles. The experience of eating Wanko Soba is as much about the ritual as it is about the food. Diners are served a continuous stream of small portions of soba noodles, and the goal is to eat as many bowls as possible. Each time a bowl is finished, it is quickly refilled by the server until the diner signals they are full by placing a lid on the bowl. This dish is often enjoyed during special occasions and is a popular challenge for visitors to Morioka.

Cultural Significance

The Three Great Noodles of Morioka are not only a testament to the region's culinary diversity but also a reflection of its cultural history. Each dish represents a fusion of local and international influences, showcasing the adaptability and creativity of Morioka's culinary traditions. These noodles have become a symbol of the city's identity and are celebrated in various food festivals and events throughout the year.

Related pages

• Japanese cuisine
• Noodles
• Iwate Prefecture
• Morioka