What is Gifu's Local Dish "Kei-chan"?
**"Kei-chan"** is a beloved local dish from the Hida and Oku-Mino regions of Gifu Prefecture.
This simple yet delicious local food consists of seasoned chicken and vegetables grilled on an iron plate or frying pan, served hot.
For Gifu residents, it's a classic home-cooked dish, also enjoyed in izakayas and specialty restaurants.
When visiting, be sure to try the authentic "Kei-chan"!
The History and Origin of Kei-chan
The roots of Kei-chan trace back to the post-war era during food shortages.
In the mountainous areas of Gifu, there has long been a culture of raising chickens, and especially a practice of eating **spent hens (chickens that have finished laying eggs)**.
To make them more palatable, a style of marinating them in miso or soy sauce and grilling them was developed.
Over time, each household and restaurant added their own twists, and now a wide variety of seasoned "Kei-chan" is enjoyed.
Features and Appeal of Kei-chan
1. Rich Seasoning
The standout feature of Kei-chan is its robust seasoning.
Chicken marinated in miso-based or soy sauce-based sauces becomes aromatic when grilled, perfectly complementing rice and drinks.
2. Loaded with Vegetables for a Healthy Option
Sautéed with vegetables like cabbage, onions, and bean sprouts, it becomes a balanced dish.
It offers a hearty volume while being healthy.
3. Endless Variations!
- Classic Miso Flavor
- Simple Soy Sauce-Based Seasoning
- Spicy or Garlic-Flavored Variations
- Creative Kei-chan with Curry Flavor or Cheese!
Each restaurant has its unique flavor, making taste comparisons part of the fun.
How to Make Kei-chan
Kei-chan is easy to make at home!
Here's a recipe to recreate the authentic taste.
Ingredients (serves 2)
- Chicken thigh ... 300g (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- Cabbage ... 1/4 head (roughly chopped)
- Onion ... 1/2 (thinly sliced)
- Garlic ... 1 clove (grated)
- Salad oil ... as needed
- Miso ... 3 tbsp
- Soy sauce ... 1 tbsp
- Mirin ... 1 tbsp
- Sugar ... 1 tbsp
- Sake ... 2 tbsp
- Sesame oil ... 1 tbsp
- Shichimi togarashi ... to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken in the sauce (letting it sit for about 30 minutes helps the flavors soak in)
- Heat oil in a frying pan and sauté the chicken
- Add cabbage and onions and continue to sauté
- Once everything is cooked through, it's ready!
Recommended Restaurants to Enjoy Kei-chan
1. Minami-chan (Gifu City)
A long-established Kei-chan specialty restaurant in Gifu City.
The miso sauce is exquisite, loved by locals.
2. Kei-chan United (Gujo City)
A popular spot in Gujo City, known as "Kei-chan United."
Enjoy various Kei-chan variations.
3. Izakaya Hiro (Takayama City)
Enjoy local-style Kei-chan in Hida-Takayama.
Highly recommended with Japanese sake!
Enjoy Gifu Sightseeing and Kei-chan!
1. Hida Takayama
Beautiful historical streets and a rich array of street food!
After enjoying Kei-chan, try Takayama ramen or Hida beef too.
2. Shirakawa-go
A village of gassho-style houses registered as a World Heritage Site.
The winter snow scenery is also breathtaking, perfect for enjoying local cuisine.
3. Gujo Hachiman
Famous for "Gujo Odori," one of Japan's three major bon dances.
Enjoy walking around the town and eating Kei-chan.
Useful Information for Travelers
1. Access Information
- Stores around Gifu Station: About 20 minutes by JR from Nagoya Station
- Stores in Gujo City: About 1 hour and 30 minutes by car from Nagoya
- Stores in Hida Takayama: About 2 hours by express train from Nagoya
2. Takeout and Souvenirs
Vacuum-packed Kei-chan is available at roadside stations and supermarkets!
You can recreate the taste of Gifu at home.
FAQs and Summary
Summary
- Kei-chan is a local dish of Gifu, characterized by miso or soy sauce-based seasoning.
- It is easy to make by simply sautéing chicken and vegetables.
- Each store has a different flavor, making taste comparisons enjoyable!
- Recommended local gourmet to enjoy along with Gifu sightseeing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where can I eat Kei-chan?
A: It's served in izakayas, specialty stores, and roadside stations within Gifu Prefecture.
Q: What does Kei-chan taste like?
A: It has a rich flavor seasoned with miso or soy sauce, perfect with rice or beer.
Q: Can vegetarians eat Kei-chan?
A: While chicken is the main ingredient, you can enjoy it healthily with more vegetables.
Q: Where can I buy Kei-chan as a souvenir?
A: Available at supermarkets and roadside stations in Gifu Prefecture. Frozen or vacuum-packed versions are popular.
In Conclusion
Gifu's local dish "Kei-chan" is simple yet deeply flavorful!
When traveling, be sure to enjoy the authentic taste.
Experiencing local culinary culture will deepen your travel memories.
