Sweet Corn: Why Does Japan Love It So Much?

Sweet corn, a golden gem in Japanese agriculture, holds a special place in the hearts of the locals. This delectably sweet and crisp corn is a precious ingredient in many Japanese dishes. Let’s explore its story and the beloved treats associated with it together!

How did sweet corn make it over to Japan?

Sweet corn originally comes from Mexico, yet it has a rich history in Japan. It traces its roots back to the 16th century when the Portuguese introduced it to Japan, and at that time, it was initially called nanban morokoshi (southern sorghum). Besides, it also has another ancient name that is more widely known – tomorokoshi.

Sweet corn was mainly used for animal food, especially the complex parts of flint corn. Ancient Japanese people ground this corn and created cakes that felt like mochi to feed domesticated animals.  

However, in the Meiji era (the late 19th century), people in Japan started growing the crop for humans to consume. In the early 1900s, Hokkaido became a pioneer in cultivating it domestically. The crop’s story began in Mexico many years ago and became a staple in Japanese cuisine.

Why did it get so popular?

Sweet corn is so prevalent in Japan that Hokkaido farmers can’t produce enough to meet the local demand. As a result, a large amount of corn is imported from the United States to Japan. Yet, this doesn’t diminish the Japanese people’s love for it.

In Japan, this type of grain is appealing even when prepared in simple ways like steaming, grilling, or adding to nabe (hot pot). The Japanese also enjoy grilled sweet corn with butter and soy sauce seasoning during its season. Additionally, traditional tempura sweet corn is very popular in this country.

Moreover, it is commonly used as a topping for iconic Japanese dishes such as curry, pizza, ramen, miso soup, and even ice cream. Corn toppings are also a distinctive feature always present in bowls of Hokkaido-style ramen. The sweetness and crunchiness of sweet corn truly enhance and enrich Japanese cuisine.

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What are some different types of sweet corn in Japan?

Hachigyo

Hachigyo is a unique variety of corn with eight rows, unlike the usual with 16 rows. This North American flint corn was well adapted to the climate and soil of Hokkaido, making it a popular choice for cultivation in Sapporo.

Today, the production of this corn variety is less widespread than it used to be. Even so, Hachigyo still significantly contributed to the growth of Hokkaido and drew tourists to this northernmost island of Japan.

Yamato Rouge

This is Japan’s first red sweet corn type. It was recently launched, but it’s already made huge waves on Japanese social media. Yamato Rouge is rooted in Tenri, Nara Prefecture. With over a century of experience in crop seed development, this unique red sweet corn was eventually introduced to all the farms across Japan this year. 

Yamato Rouge stands out not only for its striking appearance but also for its versatility. Unlike traditional sweet corn, this type can be harvested twice a year, both in summer and autumn. The red sweet corn marks a remarkable milestone in Japan’s agricultural innovation, adding a touch of visual and culinary excitement to the Japanese dining experience.

Millefeuille Corn

Millefeuille corn, a bicolor type of corn, stands out because of its eye-catching mix of yellow and white. Because it looks so much like the layers found in a French pastry called mille-feuille, it’s given a very French name.

This corn is a Japan-exclusive type from Kofu, Yamanashi Prefecture. It’s known for being very sweet and having a pleasant fruity smell, particularly bunches of larger corn cobs.

Which Japanese snacks use corn?

Umaibo

Umaibo is a yummy tube-shaped corn snack. It’s been integral to Japanese food culture since its debut in 1979. Featuring an adorable cat mascot like Doraemon, this snack is available in more than 60 tasty flavors such as caramel, chocolate, cheese, teriyaki burger, pizza, and chicken curry.

As a symbol of Japanese snack culture, Umaibo extends its popularity beyond food, featuring diverse merchandise like stationery, apparel, and lovely gift items. 

Tongari Corn

Tongari Corn is a well-known Japanese corn snack introduced in 1978 and shaped like pyramids. Its conical shape gives you a crunchy texture that captivates the sense of taste.

Furthermore, it normally has a subtle soy sauce flavor. Whether savored as a finger food companion to soft drinks or a salad topping, Tongari Corn always offers an amazing umami taste and versatile culinary experience.

Tohato Caramel Corn

Tohato’s Caramel Corn snack, born in 1971, is the flagship product of the famous Japanese food brand “Tohato.” This snack is like tasty puffy corn bites with a sweet caramel coating. These classic treats have a perfect blend of softness and crispiness, making them a favorite among snack lovers.

Eventually, his brand expanded its Caramel Corn line with various flavors, including chocolate, strawberry, pistachio, and peach, offering diverse yummy taste experiences.

In Japan, sweet corn is known for its incredible taste and is crucial in local cuisines. Whether enjoyed grilled or in various recipes, this food is always a true delight. This is the reason why the Japanese people love this crop so much. Have you tasted Japanese sweet corn? Share your thoughts in the comments!