Beer and a Burger – the perfect combo, right? But hold on – what’s inside this bun isn’t a beef patty or even prawns. As the title gives away, it’s crayfish! And not just any crayfish – it’s from Lake Akan (阿寒湖) in Kushiro (釧路), Hokkaido!
Wait, Crayfish in Hokkaido? Seriously!?
On 5th July 2019, BETWEEN THE BREAD Akan opened right next to the Marimo-no-Sato Pier, where the sightseeing boats depart from in Kushiro City’s Lake Akan area.
The specialty of this shop? The Crayfish Roll – a sandwich filled with delicious crayfish. But what’s the connection between Hokkaido and crayfish? It goes back around 100 years!
In the 1920s, crayfish were introduced from the US as a food source. By the 1930s, they had been released into Lake Mashu (摩周湖), and before long, they made their way to nearby Lake Akan, where they began to thrive naturally. Once considered a problem due to their increasing numbers, crayfish from Lake Akan are now highly regarded by top hotels and renowned restaurants. Why? Compared to other regions, Lake Akan’s crayfish grow larger thanks to the cold, clear waters, giving them firm, succulent meat. Even when simply boiled with salt, they taste amazing!
So, how does the Crayfish Roll actually taste…?
The Crayfish Roll is made with Procambarus clarkii (commonly known as red swamp crayfish) from Lake Akan. If you’re wondering, “Wait, isn’t that the kind of crayfish you find in rice paddies?” – don’t worry! These look and taste shockingly similar to prawns. There’s no strong or unusual flavour – just pure, delicious seafood that you’ll finish in no time!
Though small in size, these crayfish are packed with a rich sweetness and a firm, bouncy texture. Honestly, calling them “mini lobsters” wouldn’t be an exaggeration! Once you start eating, you won’t be able to stop – and the beer just keeps flowing!
At BETWEEN THE BREAD Akan, you’ll also find other dishes made with local ingredients, such as fish and chips featuring Lake Akan’s smelt fish. Everything is available for takeaway, making it the perfect snack for a scenic drive during the green season. Why not stop by for lunch and give it a try?
BETWEEN THE BREAD Akan – Shop Information
BETWEEN THE BREAD Akan
Opening Hours: 11:00 – 21:00
Closed: Open every day
Address: 1-5-20 Akan-ko Onsen, Akan-cho, Kushiro, Hokkaido, 085-0467, Japan
This article is translated from https://intojapanwaraku.com/rock/gourmet-rock/31578/
