Takoyaki (Octopus balls)

Takoyaki

"Octopus balls"

たこ焼き、蛸焼

 

[Takoyaki from a street stall in Osaka] 

Octopus balls, literally "fried octopus," are balls of batter, about 3 cm in diameter, with a small piece of boiled octopus inside. Sometimes tempura scraps, pickled ginger and green onion are also included. As toppings okonomiyaki sauce, bonito flakes and shredded green seaweed are used.

Takoyaki are baked on a hot iron plate with indentations in the form of the balls. When the underside has been fried, they are quickly turned around. Eaten with a tooth pick.

[The original (ganso) takoyaki from Aizuya]

Takoyaki originated in Osaka with Aizuya in 1935. Now, they are not only eaten in Osaka but all over Japan. They are sold from street stalls, but there are also specialist shops. They can also be made at home with a takoyaki pan.

 

[Takoyaki pans (Doguyasuji, Osaka]

Japanese Food Dictionary