Ika-ninjin, a local dish to ease the winter cold in Fukushima, is an excellent side dish made with surumeika (dried squid) and carrots, seasoned with a sweet and spicy sauce.
Its simple yet deep flavor is unforgettable once you try it.
What is the charm of squid carrots?
Ika-ninjinjin is a traditional local dish representing Fukushima City, characterized by its sweet and tangy taste. It is mainly made by chopping shredded surumeika and carrots and marinating them in a special sweet and spicy sauce. This dish has been loved in Fukushima City for more than 100 years, and one of its charms is that it is often arranged differently by each household.
Historical and Cultural Background
The origin of ika carrots is very old and has been made in Fukushima City for more than 100 years. Traditionally, it has been valued as a winter preservation food and is an essential dish, especially around the time of the New Year. It is also said to resemble Matsumae pickles, a local dish of Hokkaido, but ika-ninjin is usually made without kelp and with only surumeika and carrots. Its simplicity is one of the reasons why it is accepted by people of all ages.
How to enjoy ika-ninjinjin
Ika-carrots are delicious eaten as is, but the flavor is deepened by marinating them in sauce for several days. Depending on the region, adding ririgoma (parched sesame seeds) as a finishing touch gives it a richer flavor. It is very popular not only as a side dish for rice, but also as a snack.
Inheritance and Development in Modern Times
Even today, ika carrots are easily prepared in many households. In addition, celebrities from Fukushima have often featured it on TV and other media, spreading its appeal throughout the country. Commercialized ika carrots are also popular as a souvenir of Fukushima and are chosen as a return gift for hometown tax payments.
Local Community Initiatives
In Fukushima, local communities are actively involved in preserving and passing on ika carrots. Cooking classes and workshops for young people are being held to pass on the traditional taste, and the appeal of this local dish is being conveyed to a new generation. Furthermore, the entire community supports the culture of ika carrots by disseminating information through social networking services and opening stalls at local festivals.
The appeal of ika carrots lies in their simple yet deep flavor. This dish, which preserves the traditions of Fukushima while exploring new flavor possibilities, will continue to be loved by many people in the future.
