Yosare Hot Pot
A heartwarming local delicacy from Kuroishi, Aomori—where Tsugaru tradition meets exquisite flavors

About Yosare Hot Pot

Yosare Hot Pot (よされ鍋, Yosare nabe) is a beloved traditional dish from Kuroishi City in Aomori Prefecture, combining the rich culture and culinary heritage of the region.

This hearty dish gets its name from the "Kuroishi Yosare," a traditional bon dance of Kuroishi. The origins of Kuroishi Yosare date back 500 to 600 years and are said to stem from playful courting songs sung during summer festivals. In the late Edo period, the dance flourished as the Kuroishi Domain promoted it as part of economic revitalization efforts, making it even more popular.

Yosare Hot Pot features tender meat from a local chicken variety called "Gomadori" (a breed of Barred Plymouth Rock chicken) and fresh vegetables grown in Aomori. Diners can choose from four flavorful seasonings: salt, soy sauce, ponzu, or a special dipping sauce made with garlic, ginger, and grated radish. The dish is served in a dual-section iron pot, allowing you to enjoy two different flavors in one meal.

The chicken is not only delicious but also healthy, being high in protein, low in fat, and rich in B vitamins and minerals—making this hot pot an excellent choice for health-conscious individuals. To complete the meal, it's customary to add udon noodles made from locally grown Aomori rice, letting you savor the region's distinctive flavors right to the last bite.

Yosare Hot Pot is served in local izakayas and eateries, particularly popular during the colder months as a warming and comforting dish. It pairs beautifully with Kuroishi’s locally brewed sake—whether a rich and mellow junmai sake or a crisp and refreshing ginjo, both enhance the umami of the hot pot.

When visiting Kuroishi City, don’t miss the chance to indulge in Yosare Hot Pot, a delicious dish steeped in the history and culture of the region.

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