Oyabe Kamaboko Fish Cake (Mogami Kamaboko)

Kamaboko is a type of Japanese fish cake made from ground cod, which is then shaped and steamed to cook it, for a satisfying firm chew and a subtle sweetness. Though it’s commonly eaten nationwide, kamaboko is an especially popular favorite in Toyama, and even more so in Oyabe in particular.

One of the things that sets the kamaboko here apart, beyond Oyabe’s kamaboko makers’ emphasis on old-fashioned quality and production methods, is the local custom of large kamaboko for celebrations. These run the gamut from the new year to birthdays to wedding parties, where people will serve kamaboko formed into elaborate shapes, vibrantly colored with all-natural ingredients. These shapes include traditional symbols of good luck like sea bream, as well as more contemporary designs like the town’s mascot Merugyu. Customers can also commission custom-made designs, for a truly one-of-a-kind way to celebrate a spcial occasion.

In addition to these celebratory works of kamaboko art, local shops have developed their own distinctive products meant to be a part of everyday life, from kamaboko corn dogs to oranda (“Holland”), thin sheets of kamaboko that are mixed with colorful pickled vegetables and fried.