Horse Meat

Aomori has a long history of horse meat production in the Kennan region and horse meat has long been a part of the local cuisine. Next to Kumamoto and Fukushima prefecture, Aomori ranks third in horse meat production nationwide.

In addition to basashi, or horse meat sashimi, horse meat is eaten in a traditional hot pot called sakura^*1 nabe. This exquisite hotpot typically features horse meat, burdock root, and green onions, all locally grown. Senbei crackers or udon may be added in the end to complete the meal.

^*1 Horse meat is called “sakura niku” or cherry blossom meat, thus horse meat hot pot is referred to as sakura nabe. There are multiple theories as to the origin of the expression. Some claim it derives from the pink color of the meat which is similar to the beautiful cherry blossoms. Others assert it is because the season in which the meat becomes available coincides with the cherry blossom season. Or, it is simply from the name of the place where horses were raised.