What is Taiyaki? Japanese Snacks Explained
Marie Moore
Japanese sweet deserts are just as popular worldwide as Japanese snacks and Japanese candy are! But here at TokyoTreat we often get questions about specific Japanese treats and what they are exactly! So we've decided to explain the most popular and well loved snacks here in Japan so everyone can enjoy them! Today we're going to be talking about taiyaki, so what exactly is taiyaki?
Taiyaki is a Japanese fish shaped cake, the tai of taiyaki 鯛 (though normally written as たい) means the red seabream fish the cake takes its shape from, and 焼き means baked. Despite many sources describing it as a cake, we would say its most comparable to a waffle.
The traditional filling for taiyaki is sweet read bean past also known as anko, and even today it's still the most popular filling, but you can also find shops selling taiyaki with custard, matcha cream and chocolate fillings! Lately theres even been shops selling taiyaki with savory fillings like cheese!
How are they made? The batter taiyaki starts out as is just your typical pancake or waffle batter. This is then placed inside a hot fish shaped mold much like a waffle plate, each side poured separately and filling placed on one side. Before the batter is cooked through the mold is closed and both sides of the taiyaki stuck together, it is then cooked until golden brown.
Another fairly common filling for taiyaki is ice cream, much like waffle ice creams from other countries you can get these frozen taiyaki from many stores or supermarkets! Something more recent though is the adaptation of the traditional taiyaki to make them into an ice cream cone shape and then filled with soft serve ice cream and other goodies! These soft serve taiyaki shops have been popping up all over the globe recently due to their cute shape and deliciousness factor!
Nowadays you can even get Pokemon taiyaki!!! Famous Japanese taiyaki store Kurikoan sells Magikarp shaped taiyaki at their Akihabara location in Tokyo!!
And that's everything you need to know about taiyaki! If you want to learn more about Japanese snacks or Japanese candy, you can read our blog post on traditonal Japanese sweets called wagashi or about 10 different types of mochi!
What do you think about taiyaki? Have you tried it? What's your favourite filling? Let us know in the comments!
Keep up with all fun foodie news coming out from Japan by following us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter!
Want to get a FREE Japanese candy box? Check out how to get one here!
Related articles
Taiko and More Summer Festival Fun To Enjoy!
Natsu matsuri (summer festivals) are a highlight that makes Japanese summers lively and cheerful. When people join these events, it’s easy to get swept up in the festive atmosphere, enjoy unique performances, and discover special cultural traditions.
Japanese Idol Group of Grannies Make Their Great Comeback!
Japan is famous worldwide for its larger-than-life idol groups. Groups of energetic young girls take to the stage in supremely colorful and stylish outfits, dancing and singing their hearts out. Idol culture has been huge in Japan for decades, with some artists acclaiming internationally.
Comiket: Japan’s Largest Anime, Manga, and Game Convention
Artists, fans, and cosplayers of anime, manga, and games all come together at Comiket!
Yokohama Street Performance Festival is Great!
For those who wish to get a perfect taste of Yokohama culture and excitement, the Noge Daidogei is an event that can’t be missed!
Why Marine Day Is More Than Just Fun!
Marine Day is the only national holiday in July, the hottest month in Japan. It’s a perfect day for people to enjoy fun and refreshing activities related to the sea!
Harajuku Fashion Style: Why Is It So Popular?
If you’re a fashion lover, you surely can’t miss the vibrant Harajuku fashion style in beautiful Tokyo! The Harajuku fashion style has had a strong influence on global fashion. So, come along with us to explore Harajuku fashion trends throughout the years and discover some of its iconic styles!