Nagasaki, Fukuoka or Kumamoto are some of the cities based on Kyushu, one of the islands that conform Japan. Located in the southernmost region of Japan, it has a strong historical connection with other countries, such as China, Portugal and the Netherlands. That’s why it is easy to find influences from these countries in Kyushu cuisine, mixing both Japanese and foreign flavors.
Champon
Champon is a Chinese-inspired noodle soup that is typical of Nagasaki. The broth is made from pork and chicken bones; later adding pork, seafood and vegetables. The noodles are also added and boiled directly in the same broth.
Sara udon
It is a dish native to Nagasaki, consisting of a base of noodles and a topping of fried cabbage, bean sprouts and other vegetables, as well as squid, prawns and pork.
Basashi is thinly sliced raw horse meat and a specialty in Kumamoto prefecture. The word basashi comes from “baniku”, which means “horse meat”, and the abbreviation for sashimi, “sashi”; so it can be translated as “horse meat sashimi”.
Hakata ramen
It is a ramen dish originated in Fukuoka. The soup broth is based on pork bones and other ingredients, which are typically boiled for several hours, and the dish is traditionally topped with sliced pork belly and served with ramen noodles that are hard in the center.
Castela
This dessert is considered now a specialty of Nagasaki, but it was brought to Japan by Portuguese merchants in the 16th century.
Kyushu and its wonderful flavors
I have spent the first week of the year in Kyushu, having the opportunity to enjoy its gastronomy. I was pleasantly surprised to learn about the great gastronomic variety of the island. I had never tried horsemeat before, even less raw, and I loved both its texture and taste! In Spain we also have a dessert similar to castela, so when I first ate it, it made me feel like I was home.
This is a short guide to Kyushu food, but there are tons of delicious dishes out there. Take a look at them for your next trip to Kyushu!
