Discover Kasshayaki: The Unique Japanese Street Food Treasured by a Single Prefecture!

Have you heard of kasshayaki? It may look like takoyaki, but it’s a unique treat from the Kagawa Prefecture on Japan’s Shikoku Island. Our reporter, K. Masami, stumbled upon it while exploring local street food. At first glance, she thought it was the familiar octopus dumpling we all know and love, but the sign said something different.

“Ganso kasshayaki” claimed the banner, suggesting a nostalgic twist on this dish. Surprisingly, Masami had never encountered kasshayaki before, not even in big cities like Osaka or Tokyo, where food variety thrives.

Intrigued, she ordered a plate of eight for 500 yen (around $3.50), similar to that of takoyaki. When she took a closer look, she noticed they were slathered in a savory sauce, much like takoyaki.

So, what sets kasshayaki apart from its octopus counterpart? The key difference lies in the filling. Instead of octopus, kasshayaki is filled with chicken, specifically chicken stewed in a curry-seasoned sauce before being cooked on a griddle. This twist brings a distinct flavor and texture to the dish.

The “kasha” in kasshayaki is derived from “kashiwa,” meaning chicken in Japanese. Masami found the dumpling’s exterior perfectly crispy, while the inside housed the delicious curry chicken. The savory sauce and the katsuobushi (bonito flakes) toppings made every bite irresistible.

In terms of flavor, kasshayaki stands strong against takoyaki. Some even say its heartier chicken filling pairs better with a cold beer, making it a popular choice in Kagawa. The region is known for its stellar chicken dishes, and kasshayaki is a prime example.

Despite its unique taste, kasshayaki remains a regional treasure. It’s not widely available outside Kagawa, but Masami hopes that will change. Given its deliciousness, it deserves a spot in food scenes across Japan.

So, if you find yourself in Kagawa, make sure to seek out kasshayaki. It’s a delicious piece of culinary culture worth trying!

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