Hotate Kun-yu-zuke is a classic Hokkaido souvenir made from fresh scallop adductor muscles harvested from the waters around Hokkaido. Gently smoked and preserved in high-quality vegetable oil, the scallops offer a rich umami flavor with a delicate smoky aroma.
The scallop meat is first lightly boiled in salted water before being gently smoked. It is then immersed in premium vegetable oil, which helps preserve the scallop’s natural flavor.
The result is moist and tender scallop meat with a subtle smoky fragrance. As you bite into it, the savory umami of the scallop gradually spreads through your mouth, while the oil helps lock in its rich flavor.
Hotate Kun-yu-zuke has remained popular for more than half a century since its introduction. Its enduring appeal comes from a simple approach: high-quality scallops, careful preparation and a traditional flavor that has remained largely unchanged over the years.
Even today, the scallops are prepared using traditional hands-on methods. Each individual piece is carefully handled and prepared, preserving the craftsmanship and distinctive taste that have made this product a long-standing Hokkaido favorite.
For visitors exploring Hokkaido’s seafood culture, Hotate Kun-yu-zuke is an easy way to enjoy the concentrated flavor of Hokkaido scallops in a convenient preserved form, with just a hint of aromatic smoke.