An Illustrated Japan / Fukuoka / Life & Daily

Mentaiko (spicy pollock roe)

Also written: 明太子 · 明太子

A Fukuoka specialty of Alaska pollock roe marinated with chili and seasonings; a popular local ingredient enjoyed with rice, in pasta, and in many other dishes.

Fukuoka Kyushu-Okinawa Life & Daily

About this place

Mentaiko is Fukuoka's spicy pollock roe, born 1949 in Nakasu shop Fukuya. Founder Toshio Kawahara adapted Busan's myeongran-jeot for Japanese taste, first sold Jan 10 now Mentaiko Day. He shared method freely, so over 150 makers joined, market about 130B yen. Roe from Hokkaido to Bering Sea gives popping texture and savory heat. Beyond rice, locals use it in pasta, onigiri and mentaiko France bread with butter selling 1.5M yearly. Variations include uncolored and kiriko cuts. Top souvenir at Hakata Station since 1975 Shinkansen.