Taiyaki

Taiyaki is a Japanese fish-shaped cake often eaten as a snack, made from flour and filled with sweet azuki beans. They make it by pouring pancake batter into a fish-shaped mold and cooking it until it's golden brown and crispy on the outside. This unique cooking process results in a visually appealing dish that's as fun to look at as it is delicious to eat.

Taiyaki is a delightful Japanese dish that combines beautiful presentation with delicious flavors. Traditionally, it is filled with sweet red bean paste, offering a delightful balance of sweetness and texture. The smooth, sweet filling contrasts perfectly with the crispy outer shell, creating a satisfying experience. While red bean paste remains the classic choice, modern variations have expanded the range of options. Nowadays, you can find Taiyaki filled with custard cream, rich chocolate, or gooey cheese, catering to a variety of flavor preferences and adding a fun twist to this timeless snack.

Its warm and comforting aroma, coupled with its sweet taste, makes it a perfect snack. Especially in the cold season, this is an interesting dish for a day out visiting and exploring. It is usually served warm and is often found at most Taiyaki stands at any winter festival in Japan. Although there are many different flavors and varieties of Taiyaki today, the basic remains a favorite.

Main ingredients: flour, baking powder, baking soda, eggs, milk, red bean paste, and vegetable oil

Recommend places: Nihonbashiningyocho in Tokyo, Japan

Price range: 100 JPY to 200 JPY each (~ $0.7 to $1.3)