Kensan Yaki
A rice ball dish enjoyed during the rice harvest celebration or New Year’s Eve

About Kensan Yaki

Kensan Yaki (けんさん焼き, Kensan yaki) is a grilled rice ball with a unique twist. The rice is shaped into a flattened disc with an indent in the center, then spread with a flavorful miso mixture containing ginger, yuzu peel, and green onions before being grilled to perfection. It is also known as "Kensashi Yaki" or "Kenshin Yaki."

The dish is said to have originated from the time of Uesugi Kenshin, a famous Japanese warlord, who reportedly skewered hardened rice balls on the tip of his sword and roasted them as a meal during times of war.

You can enjoy Kensan Yaki as is, or pour hot broth or tea over it for a comforting twist. This dish is traditionally savored during the rice harvest celebration or on New Year’s Eve.

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