Takoyaki Octopus Balls

Takoyaki is literally fried or grilled octopus which is a popular ball-shaped Japanese dumpling. This special dish is cooked using a special takoyaki pan. It is typically filled with tempura scraps , diced octopus, green onion and pickled ginger.

Nowadays, it is commonly brushed with takoyaki sauce and mayonnaise, and topped with green laver (aonori) and katsuobushi (shavings of dried bonito). There are many variations to the takoyaki recipe. For example, ponzu i.e. soy sauce with dashi and citrus vinegar, wasabi sause, sesame-and-vinegar sauce.

It’s delicious and you get to experience a burst of hot flavors in your mouth as you bite into the takoyaki.