Satsuma Age

Satsuma age, fish paste shaped and deep fried, is a fish cake that symbolizes Kagoshima. Locally it is also called tsukeage, and its gentle sweetness sets it apart. Adding a splash of local liquor before frying is a long held custom, giving a fragrant surface and a springy interior in delightful contrast.

Highlights

Beyond the plain flat cake, there is a rich variety wrapped around burdock, wood ear mushroom, squid, or quail eggs. Bite into one fresh from the fryer at a storefront and the outside crackles while the inside stays fluffy. It is good cold too, and a light grilling brings out even more aroma.

Enjoying the Seasons

It pairs with hot tea in winter and makes an ideal companion to beer in summer. Simmered as an ingredient in oden, it soaks up the broth and shows another face entirely. It has the depth to slip naturally onto the table in any season.

Access and Basic Information

Specialty and souvenir shops line the area around Tenmonkan and Kagoshima Chuo Station, and some let you sample as you choose. Many products keep well, making them easy to carry home as a gift.

A Quick Tip

Start with a plain piece and nothing on top, so you can taste the natural sweetness. If you are mid journey, savoring one hot from the fryer at the counter is the greatest luxury.