Pollock roe

Mentaiko

Mentaiko (明太子) is the marinated roe of pollock, and is a common ingredient in Japanese cuisine. Mentaiko originated from myeongran jeot (명란젓) of Korean cuisine and was introduced to Japan after the Second World War. The name is derived from the Korean word for Alaska pollock (明太, mentai, 명태 : myeongtae in Korean) and the Japanese word for "child" (子, ko). The typical seasoning and flavor is slightly different in Japan.

Mentaiko is made in a variety of flavors and colors and is available at airports and main train stations. It is usually eaten with rice but is also enjoyed by itself with sake. A common variety is spicy mentaiko (辛子明太子, karashi mentaiko).

It is a famous product of the Hakata ward of Fukuoka City. One of the original manufacturers, Fukuya based in Nakasu, is the largest producer of mentaiko. It has to compete with over 150 other producers in Japan because they decided not to take out a patent on the recipe.

See also

• Jeotgal