The Beloved Dagashi King: "Cut Yotchan"

Hello, everyone! Today, I’ll be introducing the iconic dagashi snack, "Cut Yotchan."

First, let’s dive into the origin of the name "Yotchan." This beloved snack is produced by Yotchan Food Industry Co., Ltd., and the name comes from the founder, Mr. Yoshio Kanai, whose childhood nickname was "Yotchan." This friendly name perfectly matches both the product and the company.

Incidentally, Yotchan Food Industry is also the creator of another popular snack, "Tararara Shiten Janeeyo" ("Don’t Be Lazy"). Both snacks are unique in their own ways, but "Cut Yotchan" has a charm all its own!

What is "Cut Yotchan"?

"Cut Yotchan" has been a staple in dagashi shops for generations. It’s made from processed squid and fish paste, flavored with vinegar and salt. When you open the package, you’re greeted by the tangy aroma of vinegar—it’s like a burst of sour goodness!

The first thing that caught my attention was its appearance. The bright red color reminds me of fukujinzuke (Japanese pickles often served with curry). This vibrant hue exudes an old-school dagashi charm that evokes nostalgia. Having tried it several times, just seeing the color brings back the excitement of grabbing it off the shelf at the dagashi store.

My Taste Test

As soon as you open the package, the sourness of the vinegar wafts up to your nose. Taking a bite, you immediately experience the intense tang—a "Wow!" moment that keeps you coming back for more.

The texture is another highlight, offering two distinct sensations:

• Thin pieces: These are heavily infused with vinegar, delivering a strong sour kick and a crisp texture.

• Thick pieces: These have a chewy texture with a milder vinegar flavor, allowing you to savor the umami as you chew.

Both textures are addictive, but the thicker pieces provide a satisfying fullness, making even a small amount feel filling.

The Secret Behind the Red Color

Curious about the bright red hue of "Cut Yotchan"? It turns out this color is designed to stimulate appetite and enhance the visual appeal of the snack. Much like fukujinzuke, this color adds to the fun and playful nature of dagashi.

Conclusion

"Cut Yotchan" perfectly balances its tangy flavor and varied textures, making it a true king of dagashi. Pairing it with "Tararara Shiten Janeeyo," from the same company, is highly recommended for an exciting snack experience.

Next time, I’ll delve into more dagashi reviews and uncover the stories behind these beloved treats! Feel free to share your memories and impressions of "Cut Yotchan" in the comments below.

Category	Details
Ingredients	Squid, fish paste, vinegar, salt, soy sauce, sugar, spices
Calories (per 15g serving)	30 kcal
Protein	3.2 g
Fat	0.3 g
Carbohydrates	5.5 g
Sodium (Salt Equivalent)	0.6 g
Allergens	Wheat, soy, gelatin