Hirosaki’s Igamenchi: The Deep-Fried Squid Cake That’ll Make You Question Life Choices!

#summervacay
Forget sushi—Aomori’s *real* street food legend is **igamenchi**, a crispy, squid-stuffed croquette that’s basically the love child of tempura and a seafood donut. Here’s your *gluttonous pilgrim’s guide* to finding the best in Hirosaki:

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### **🍴 Where to Devour Igamenchi**
1. **Mamenchi (まめんち)**
- **Why?** Family-run since 1985, uses **local squid + secret batter**.
- **Order Like a Pro**: Get the *setto* (¥600) with miso soup and pickles.
- **Address**: 青森県弘前市大字代官町45 (5-min walk from Hirosaki Park).

2. **Hirosaki Morning Market (弘前朝市)**
- **Budget Hack**: ¥300 for a hot one wrapped in paper—eat while exploring the castle.
- **Bonus**: Try **apple butter** on toast at the same stall (Aomori fusion!).

3. **Ekiben Shops at Hirosaki Station**
- **For Train Snobs**: Grab the **"Igamenchi Bento"** (¥1,200) for your Shinkansen ride.

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### **🤔 What Even *Is* Igamenchi?**
- **The Recipe**: Minced squid + onions + egg, battered in *panko*, deep-fried to golden perfection.
- **The Vibe**: Imagine if a calamari ring and a potato croquette had a *very* juicy baby.

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### **⏰ Timing is Everything**
- **Go Early**: Morning market stalls sell out by noon.
- **Cherry Blossom Season**: Pair with *sakura mochi* for a sweet/savory knockout.

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### **🚶♂️ Combo Move**
1. **Hirosaki Castle Visit** (¥320).
2. **Igamenchi Feast** (¥300-600).
3. **Nap by the Moat** (¥0, but priceless).

**Verdict:** Aomori’s squid game you’ll *actually* win.

Want the **spiciest igamenchi** or a secret *apple cider* pairing spot? Just ask! 🍎😋