Sushi is one of the most iconic Japanese foods and comes in many unique styles. Inari sushi, also called cone sushi, is a popular variant. Like many Japanese dishes, it has a fascinating history behind it. Whether you’re just starting to explore Japanese cuisine or are a long-time sushi lover, find out more about this dish in the following guide.

What Is Cone Sushi?

Traditional inari sushi is a small pocket of deep-fried tofu packed with rice. The name is derived from Inari, the Shinto god of fertility and prosperity. Inari's fox messengers were said to enjoy fried tofu, called aburaage. Because the pointed ends of inari sushi resemble fox ears, the sushi was named after the deity.

This sushi was invented in the 18th Century during the Edo period. People often left aburaage at Shinto shrines and eventually started including rice in the tofu pouches, leading to the invention of inari sushi. It became popular among street vendors because it was easy to prepare and affordable.

Japanese immigrants relocated to Hawaii in the late 1800s and brought the sushi with them. From that came many adapations of Japanese food, including cone sushi. The Hawaii version of inari sushi includes carrots, green beans, and gobo. It’s often found in Japanese delis or included in bento boxes.

What Does It Taste Like?

Inari sushi differs depending on its region of origin. Variations from the central Kanto region of Japan are traditionally rectangular and contain vinegar rice. Those from the Kansai region of southern Japan, sometimes called gomoku inari, are reminiscent of Hawaii's cone sushi because they contain three additional ingredients.

Kanto style relies on the savory blend of sweet, salty, and vinegary for its signature flavor. The tofu pouch is often dashed with sugar and soy sauce to further enhance the blend of sweet and salty. In Kansai, additions like carrots, shiitake mushrooms, edamame, and sesame seeds add crunchy texture and earthy flavors to cone sushi. All varieties are easy to eat on the go because everything is contained in the tofu pouch.

If you want to try cone sushi and other Japanese food, head to Kawamoto Store. With over 70 years of industry experience, this Hilo okazuya serves a delicious spread of Japanese and Filipino food, including sushi and box lunches. Explore their menu on their website, or call (808) 935-8209 to place a takeout order.