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Odawara fish paste

Odawara fish paste

Craftsmanship creates a plump texture — Odawara's traditional “fish paste”

About Odawara fish paste

“Odawara fish paste,” a specialty of Odawara City, Kanagawa Prefecture, is a traditional kneaded product with a history of over 220 years. Its origin dates back to the Tenmei period (latter half of the 18th century) in the Edo period, and it was born as a preserved food utilizing abundant fish resources. At that time, samurai staying at Odawarajuku and Hakone Onsen during the Sankin Change were always lined up with fish paste at their meals, and it is said that they were also looking forward to the taste. Kamaboko was regarded as a high-class food, and was particularly prized among high-ranking samurai and wealthy merchants.

Odawara fish paste is characterized by its plump elasticity created by carefully kneading high-quality white fish (guchi, walleye pollack, etc.) as the main ingredient. This elasticity is due to Odawara's unique manufacturing method, and is produced by traditional “millstone pulling.” By taking time and effort to slowly knead, we have achieved a smooth texture and elegant flavor.

Also, fish paste is known as a high protein and low fat food. It contains approximately 12g of high-quality protein per 100g, and is also rich in calcium, DHA, and EPA. Since it is manufactured based on fish, it is an ideal healthy, low calorie food, and is also suitable for health-conscious people.

The standard way to eat it is to add wasabi soy sauce and enjoy it as it is. Also, if you use it as an ingredient in stir-fries or simmered dishes, you can add depth to the flavor of food. It also goes well with Japanese sake, and in particular, liquor with a refreshing taste, such as junmaishu and honjo-shu, enhances the delicate flavor of Odawara kamaboko.

Odawara fish paste has been registered as a regional collective trademark, and its quality and tradition have been widely recognized. Furthermore, events such as the “Kamaboko Festival” and the “Kamaboko Handmade Experience” for tourists are held in Odawara City, and they continue to disseminate the culture and appeal of the region. There is also a “fish paste museum” in Odawara, where you can experience making fish paste yourself while learning about the history and manufacturing methods of fish paste. When you visit Odawara, be sure to enjoy this traditional flavor and experience its deep history and culture.