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Shishi Nabe (Wild Boar Hot Pot)

Shishi Nabe (Wild Boar Hot Pot)

A rustic winter delicacy nurtured in Ishioka—Wild Boar Hot Pot

About Shishi Nabe (Wild Boar Hot Pot)

Shishi Nabe (しし鍋, Wild Boar Hot Pot) is a cherished winter specialty of Ishioka City in Ibaraki Prefecture. This hearty dish is crafted with freshly caught wild boar meat and a generous assortment of seasonal vegetables, embodying the rugged charm of a traditional countryside meal. Ishioka's Yasato region has a long history tied to hunting culture and is one of the rare areas in Japan officially authorized to distribute wild boar meat. The region has also turned to wild boar cuisine as part of wildlife management efforts, updating a "Shishi Nabe Map" annually to promote local tourism during the winter months.

Dating back to the Jomon period, wild boar meat has been an important source of protein for the Japanese people. While there was once a time when eating meat from four-legged animals was considered taboo, it’s hard to imagine missing out on something so delicious today. Wild boar meat is richer in flavor than pork, yet it has a refreshing aftertaste. Its high protein, low fat, and abundant iron and vitamin B content make it a nutritious choice that aligns perfectly with modern health-conscious lifestyles. The broth for Shishi Nabe is typically miso- or soy sauce-based, complemented by fragrant ingredients like burdock root, green onions, mizuna greens, and chrysanthemum greens. Together, these vegetables lend a subtle sweetness that harmonizes beautifully with the meat’s bold, earthy taste.

The dish pairs excellently with pure junmai sake from Ibaraki Prefecture, whose smooth and mild flavor enhances the savory richness of the wild boar and elevates Shishi Nabe to new heights. In Ishioka, several restaurants serve Shishi Nabe from November through March. As the availability and ingredients vary by establishment, advance reservations or inquiries are recommended.

When you visit Ishioka, don't miss the opportunity to savor Shishi Nabe, a dish that beautifully combines the region’s natural bounty and cultural history.