Ton-chan

Fukui/Ono soul food “Tonchan” with a secret miso sauce

About Ton-chan

The specialty dish “Tonchan” from Ono city in Fukui prefecture is hormone-grilled, which continues to be loved locally. Its origin dates back to the early Showa period, and it is said that it began when it was served as a side dish for workers working in mines in Ono City. The style of soaking cheap and highly nutritious hormones into a special sauce using locally produced miso and then grilling them has become established.

The main ingredients used in “Tonchan” are beef and pork offal (hormones). Hormones are high in protein, are rich in iron and B vitamins, and are known as foods with high nutritional value. By soaking these in a sauce based on local miso or soy sauce, a unique flavor and deep richness are created.

Ono City is also known as the “City of Famous Water,” and its clean water is suitable for manufacturing miso and soy sauce, and its quality supports the deliciousness of “Tonchan.” There are over 30 horumon-grilled restaurants in the city, and each offers its own unique flavor.

“Tonchan” goes great with local sake. In particular, rich junmaishu and refreshing ginjoshu enhance the umami of “Tonchan.” Also, it goes well with beer and shochu, expanding the enjoyment of eating.

In recent years, the “Echizen Ono Association to Adore 'Ton-chan'” has been formed, and the “Ton-chan Festival” has been held as part of regional revitalization, and it has come to be known as the “Town of Hormones.” This festival is centered around local young people and aims to expand regional networks through “Tonchan.”

“Ton-chan” is a soul food for Ono citizens, and is popular at everyday dining tables and special events. Why don't you try it once while feeling its history and culture?