Hachinohe Senbei Jiru a Warm Local Hot Pot of Simmered Rice Crackers

Senbei jiru, handed down in the Hachinohe area of southeastern Aomori Prefecture, is a local dish made by breaking Nanbu rice crackers, baked specially for hot pots, into a simmering broth. The crackers, having soaked up plenty of dashi, take on a distinctive chewy texture and blend with the savory flavors of chicken and vegetables. It is a home style taste that has warmed people to the core in this land of harsh cold.

Highlights

The star of senbei jiru is the special Nanbu cracker for hot pots, baked firm so it does not fall apart while cooking. Made for soups, this cracker is also called otsuyu senbei and is known for not dissolving easily even when simmered. Chicken, mushrooms, burdock, and green onion are simmered in dashi, and the crackers are added at the end. Cooked for a while, they develop a wonderful texture that is smooth yet retains some bite. A bowl in which the hearty broth and crackers become one delivers a flavor that is humble yet deep.

Enjoying the Seasons

Senbei jiru is craved most in winter, when the region is wrapped in snow. The piping hot broth warms a chilled body and soothes the heart as well. Locally it is served at celebrations and gatherings, and it has been loved regardless of season. In summer it can be enjoyed as a bowl to settle a body cooled by air conditioning, or as a meal between sightseeing stops.

Access and Basic Information

Within Hachinohe City there are many eateries and pubs that serve senbei jiru. You can reach the central district from JR Hachinohe Station by local bus and other means, and several serving shops line the area around Miroku Yokocho, a food stall village spanning the Mikkamachi and Muikamachi districts. Since the special otsuyu senbei is sold at souvenir shops, you can also make it at home. It appears as a standard menu item at dining spots in tourist facilities as well.

Practical Travel Notes

• Senbei jiru is one of the local foods that became known nationwide through the B-1 Grand Prix, which originated in Hachinohe. It is also a dish that symbolizes the town revitalization of Hachinohe.
• The otsuyu senbei for soups is available for home cooking at souvenir shops and supermarkets. It is an item easy to take home as a gift.
• Miroku Yokocho, the food stall village, is an area lively at night. You can enjoy eating your way around and mingling with locals.
• As a hot pot dish it can take time to be served. It is reassuring to leave some room in your next plans.

A Quick Tip

It is best not to overcook the crackers once added, and to eat them while a little bite remains. Take a big mouthful of the dashi soaked crackers together with the ingredients, and the warmth of a Hachinohe winter will spread through your mouth. Some shops add rice at the end, so it is worth asking how the shop recommends enjoying it.