Abe Kamaboko-ten is a long-established shop renowned for producing Sendai’s famous sasa kamaboko, bamboo leaf-shaped fishcakes, which we later sampled at their Matsushima Teramachi location.
At their main store in Sendai, however, we had the chance to try what is perhaps Sendai’s most iconic street food: Hyotan-age.
The shop’s description reads:
“Fish Ball Donuts” is like an American Corn Dog. Deep fried soft sweet dough with steamed fish ball. Fresh and hand made in our kitchen with our special dough.
Original Japanese name “hyotan-age” is named after its cute gourds-like shape. It tastes good as it is, but ketchup is also a great idea!”
It is said that if one finds the word “winner” printed on your stick, one will get another Hyotan-age for free.
Hyotan-age (1 stick, 2 pieces, ¥300).
Each stick came with two golden-brown, gourd-shaped pieces, about 4 cm in diameter, with a batter approximately 1 cm thick. The exterior had a crisp, smooth texture, while the interior revealed light, fluffy dough with the sweetness and mouthfeel of a freshly fried doughnut. Encased within, the fishcake had a smooth and soft texture reminiscent of cooked egg whites, lightly salted to contrast the sweet dough. Adding tomato sauce provided a savoury balance that complemented the overall flavours.
This snack delivered a delightful combination of textures and flavours, making it a must-try when in Sendai.
Abe Kamaboko-ten is located at 2-3-18 Chuo, Aoba Ward, Sendai City, Miyagi Prefecture 980-0021, Japan