Taiyaki: the Fish-Shaped Japanese Waffle from Anime

Taiyaki: the Fish-Shaped Japanese Waffle from Anime

Taiyaki — a crispy carp-shaped waffle filled with sweet anko paste — appears in Japanese anime street scenes as often as melon-pan appears in school canteens. The golden fish has long been a symbol of Japanese festivals.

History and origin

Taiyaki was created in Tokyo in 1909 at the confectionery Naniwaya Sohonten, which still exists today. The carp shape was deliberate: in Japanese culture the carp symbolises luck and perseverance.

Key ingredients

The batter for taiyaki resembles thin pancake batter: flour, egg, milk, sugar and baking powder. The traditional filling is anko paste from red adzuki beans, but modern versions include custard, chocolate and even spinach.

How to cook at home

You need a special cast-iron taiyaki mould. Pour batter into both halves, place the filling on one side and close immediately — the fish should seal within seconds.

Try this recipe at home — it's much easier than it looks and will make you feel part of your favourite universe.