What is Senbei-jiru?
Senbei-jiru is a traditional dish from the southern region of Aomori Prefecture (especially Hachinohe City). It is a hot pot dish where “Nanbu senbei” is simmered in a broth-rich soup.
Originally a homemade dish eaten in rural areas, it has now become recognized nationwide as one of Aomori’s representative B-grade gourmet dishes.
The most distinctive feature of senbei-jiru is the addition of “edible senbei” to the soup.
This senbei is a special version of Nanbu senbei made from wheat flour, which does not easily crumble in the soup and offers a unique chewy texture.
It is known for its warm and gentle taste, making it an indispensable dish during the cold winters of Aomori.
History and Culture of Senbei-jiru
It is said that the origins of senbei-jiru date back to the Edo period.
The southern region of Aomori Prefecture, being a cold area, found rice cultivation difficult, leading to the development of a wheat-based culture.
As a result, “Nanbu senbei” made from wheat flour was created and cherished as a preserved food for a long time.
Originally a simple dish eaten between farming tasks, it has recently gained popularity among tourists, becoming so popular that specialized senbei for senbei-jiru are now commercially available.
Today, it is known as “Aomori’s soul food” and is cherished in many restaurants and households.
Characteristics and Delicious Ways to Enjoy Senbei-jiru
1. “Otsuyu Senbei” for Senbei-jiru
Unlike regular Nanbu senbei, the “otsuyu senbei” used for senbei-jiru is characterized by its resistance to crumbling even when simmered in soup.
When this senbei absorbs the soup, it gains a unique chewy and moist texture.
2. Chicken Bone, Seafood, and Soy Sauce-based Soup
The soup for senbei-jiru is typically a soy sauce-based broth made from chicken bones and seafood.
Depending on the shop or household, there are variations with miso or salt-based flavors.
3. Abundant Use of Local Ingredients
Senbei-jiru is filled with plenty of ingredients unique to Aomori.
- Chicken (Aomori Shamrock): A flavorful local chicken.
- Burdock root, carrots, mushrooms: The sweetness of the vegetables melts into the soup.
- Leeks: An accent that enhances the flavor.
4. Tips for Enjoying
The timing of adding the senbei is crucial!
To enjoy the texture, it’s best to take them out after about 5 minutes without overcooking.
If you prefer a softer texture, simmering them for about 10 minutes for a more moist feel is also recommended.
Recommended Places to Enjoy Senbei-jiru in Aomori
1. Hachinohe Area
Ganso Senbei-jiru Kenkyujo
- Features: A famous shop that first made “senbei-jiru” known nationwide in Aomori Prefecture.
- Recommended Points: The traditional soy sauce-based soup and chewy senbei are exquisite!
- Access: 15 minutes by car from Hachinohe Station.
Minato Shokudo
- Features: A popular spot frequented by local fishermen, where you can enjoy seafood and senbei-jiru sets.
- Recommended Points: An array of creative menus such as “seafood senbei-jiru.”
- Access: 20 minutes by bus from Hachinohe Station.
2. Aomori City Area
Oshokujidokoro Osanai
- Features: A place near Aomori Station where you can enjoy local dishes.
- Recommended Points: The “senbei-jiru set meal” is very popular among tourists!
- Access: 5 minutes on foot from Aomori Station.
How to Make Senbei-jiru at Home
For those who want to enjoy the taste of Aomori at home, here is a simple recipe!
Ingredients (for 2-3 people)
- Otsuyu senbei (4-5 pieces)
- Chicken (thighs or wings) 150g
- Burdock root 1/2 (shaved)
- Carrot 1/2 (thinly sliced)
- Mushrooms (such as shimeji or maitake) to taste
- Leek 1 (diagonally sliced)
- Water 800ml
- Soy sauce 2 tablespoons
- Sake 2 tablespoons
- Mirin 1 tablespoon
- Salt a pinch
Instructions
- Put water in a pot, add chicken, and simmer over medium heat.
- While skimming off the foam, add burdock root, carrot, and mushrooms.
- Add seasonings (soy sauce, sake, mirin, salt) and simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Break the senbei by hand and add them, then simmer for another 5-7 minutes.
- Finally, add the leeks, turn off the heat, and it’s done!
Helpful Information for Travelers
When Senbei-jiru is Available
- Lunch Hours: 11:00 – 14:00 (varies by establishment)
- Dinner Hours: 17:00 – 21:00
Price Range for Senbei-jiru
- Per bowl: 600 to 1,200 yen
- Set meal: 1,500 to 2,500 yen
Recommended Souvenirs Related to Senbei-jiru
- Otsuyu senbei (dried senbei)
- Senbei-jiru ready-to-eat sets (available at airports and stations)
Wi-Fi Information
- Free Wi-Fi is available around Hachinohe and Aomori stations.
- Some restaurants and tourist information centers also offer Wi-Fi.
Language Support
- The tourist information center in Hachinohe offers English and Chinese brochures.
- Some restaurants provide English menus.
Summary and Frequently Asked Questions
Senbei-jiru is a traditional local dish from the southern part of Aomori Prefecture, characterized by chewy senbei and a rich, flavorful soup.
It’s a warm dish perfect for the cold winter and has long been loved by the locals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can regular Nanbu senbei be used as a substitute?
A: It is possible, but they tend to crumble in the soup, so it’s recommended to use the special otsuyu senbei.
Q: What is the recommended way to eat senbei-jiru?
A: The best way to enjoy it is to eat the senbei half crunchy and half moist.
If you visit Aomori, be sure to try the authentic senbei-jiru!
