An in-depth exploration into Kochi's famous sweet, imo kenpi (sweet potato sticks)! Learn about its history, delicious ways to enjoy it, and more.
Imo kenpi (sweet potato sticks) is a signature specialty of Kochi. It is a simple snack made by deep-frying thinly sliced sweet potatoes until they are crispy, then coating them in sugar. It consistently ranks high even among Kochi's most popular souvenirs.
This article covers everything from the history of imo kenpi, which dates back to the 18th century, to creative ways for enjoying them locally.
This article covers everything from the history of imo kenpi, which dates back to the 18th century, to creative ways for enjoying them locally.
How did it become a Kochi specialty? The hidden history of imo kenpi
Did you know that imo kenpi actually originated in Kochi?
This snack, beloved by many for its crisp texture and subtle sweetness, can be traced back to a traditional Kochi confection called kenpi. While traditional kenpi was made from wheat flour and sugar, the sweet potato version came to be known as imo kenpi (imo means "potato" in Japanese) because its shape resembled the original.
Sweet potatoes were introduced to Kochi around the 18th century. They grew well in Kochi's typhoon-prone climate and soil, leading to widespread cultivation. As a result, thinly sliced sweet potatoes sprinkled over with sugar, a precious commodity at the time, became a popular confection among the masses.
Many shops in Kochi City continue to sell imo kenpi today, so be sure to try it as a snack during your travels.
This snack, beloved by many for its crisp texture and subtle sweetness, can be traced back to a traditional Kochi confection called kenpi. While traditional kenpi was made from wheat flour and sugar, the sweet potato version came to be known as imo kenpi (imo means "potato" in Japanese) because its shape resembled the original.
Sweet potatoes were introduced to Kochi around the 18th century. They grew well in Kochi's typhoon-prone climate and soil, leading to widespread cultivation. As a result, thinly sliced sweet potatoes sprinkled over with sugar, a precious commodity at the time, became a popular confection among the masses.
Many shops in Kochi City continue to sell imo kenpi today, so be sure to try it as a snack during your travels.
Imo kenpi is not just sweet! The many varieties of imo kenpi you can find in Kochi
The appeal of Kochi's imo kenpi lies in its diverse varieties. The classic type that has been around from the past is characterized by its simplicity, allowing you to enjoy the authentic flavor and natural sweetness of the sweet potato itself. The sweet and salty shio kenpi (salted sweet potato sticks) are popular among Kochi residents. The subdued sweetness, accented by the salty flavor, makes a for a delicious, addictive snack. Long-beloved among the locals, this snack offers a rich variety of flavors that you can enjoy without ever tiring of it. These include deep, rich black sugar flavor, yuzu flavor with a refreshing aroma and clean taste, or sticks coated with sprinkles of Shimanto aonori (powdered seaweed) or black sesame. In recent years, premium imo kenpi featuring truffle or cocoa have also emerged on the scene, delivering an elevated, sophisticated taste experience.
Search for imo kenpi on KOCHI MARUGOTO NET
*Online orders are, in principle, shipped within Japan.
*Check each business’ website to see whether they offer international shipping.
*As a general rule, inquiries to stores can only be made in Japanese. Please note that we may not be able to provide support in other languages.
Search for imo kenpi on KOCHI MARUGOTO NET
*Online orders are, in principle, shipped within Japan.
*Check each business’ website to see whether they offer international shipping.
*As a general rule, inquiries to stores can only be made in Japanese. Please note that we may not be able to provide support in other languages.
Not just crispy!? Imo kenpi with a new light, flaky texture
Imo kenpi is typically characterized by its thin strip-like shape and crispy texture, but did you know there is also an "ultra-thin" version?Its defining feature is the light, flaky texture achieved by slicing the sweet potatoes to the thinnest layer possible. This delicate thinness is achieved through the skills of expert artisans, and frying the sticks in oil creates an even crispier texture. This texture breaks the mold of the conventional image of traditional imo kenpi, and is certain to make a delightful gift to bring back with you.
Enjoy freshly fried imo kenpi
The first thing you will want to experience when visiting Kochi is freshly fried imo kenpi. The typical local style is to enjoy it fresh from the fryer.
The only place in the prefecture that serves freshly fried imo kenpi is the direct retail store of Imoya Kinjiro, a popular store that boasts half the domestic market share. It is the height of luxury to savor these chips while they are still warm and crispy. Be sure to indulge in this delicious, freshly fried imo kenpi, available only at the store.
Freshly fried imo kenpi, unlike the cooled version, stands out with its enhanced roasted aroma and slightly softer texture. We recommend stopping by during your travels to share and enjoy it with friends and family!
Imoya Kinjiro's official website
The only place in the prefecture that serves freshly fried imo kenpi is the direct retail store of Imoya Kinjiro, a popular store that boasts half the domestic market share. It is the height of luxury to savor these chips while they are still warm and crispy. Be sure to indulge in this delicious, freshly fried imo kenpi, available only at the store.
Freshly fried imo kenpi, unlike the cooled version, stands out with its enhanced roasted aroma and slightly softer texture. We recommend stopping by during your travels to share and enjoy it with friends and family!
Imoya Kinjiro's official website
A must-try in Kochi! The ultimate collaboration of freshly fried imo kenpi and soft-serve ice cream
Imo kenpi × Soft-serve ice cream is a collaboration that you must experience when you visit Kochi. This is a unique snack of soft-serve ice cream accompanied by freshly fried, crispy imo kenpi. Start with a mouthful of the rich soft-serve ice cream. Then, try dipping the imo kenpi into the ice cream to enjoy the crispy texture and the rich flavor of the soft-serve ice cream all at the same time! This picture-perfect treat is a wonderful way of creating memories of your Kochi trip ♪
Discover delicious ways of enjoying imo kenpi! A renowned tasty combo enjoyed with Kochi's specialty aisukurin (An old-fashioned ice cream from Kochi)
Aisukurin is Kochi's signature dessert. It is marked by the unique granular, lightly crunchy texture of the ice and its refreshing sweetness.
In fact, aisukurin pairs exceptionally well with imo kenpi ♪
The rich, syrupy sweetness of imo kenpi is harmoniously balanced by the refreshing flavor of aisukurin. They complement each other perfectly, drawing out the best features of each item to create a delicious dessert without a cloying sweetness.
Summary
What do you think?
Imo kenpi offers a timeless flavor that has remained well-loved across generations. It is so simple that one never gets tired of it, offering a delicious, comforting taste that everyone from children to grownups can enjoy. When you visit Kochi, be sure to savor the unique flavors that are available only locally!
Other than imo kenpi, you can find plenty more delicious cuisine in Shikoku! Check out the gourmet options below that you find interesting ♪
See our feature on gourmet foods in Shikoku
See our feature on Souvenirs in Shikoku
Imo kenpi offers a timeless flavor that has remained well-loved across generations. It is so simple that one never gets tired of it, offering a delicious, comforting taste that everyone from children to grownups can enjoy. When you visit Kochi, be sure to savor the unique flavors that are available only locally!
Other than imo kenpi, you can find plenty more delicious cuisine in Shikoku! Check out the gourmet options below that you find interesting ♪
See our feature on gourmet foods in Shikoku
See our feature on Souvenirs in Shikoku