Kamaei "Pan Roll"

Kamaei is a kamaboko maker founded in the Meiji era and headquartered in Otaru. Its Pan Roll, made by wrapping fish paste in bread and deep-frying it, is a long-selling favorite from this beloved local classic.

Pan Roll began in 1962, when Kamaei’s then-president set out to create a type of kamaboko that could be enjoyed like a snack. Freshly made, it offers a superb taste you can only get right out of the fryer, from the crispiness of the fried bread to the soft texture of the kamaboko. The fish paste is mixed with ground pork and onions, making it especially satisfying. There are also related products, such as the "Wiener Roll" with a sausage added to the Pan Roll, and the "Pan Dome" with cheese or bacon mixed into the fish paste.

Pan Roll is not available for regional shipping, and can only be purchased at select directly operated stores, including the head factory shop. Because no preservatives are used, its shelf life is short, just 3 days from the date of production. The shops always have lines, but this is one local specialty worth waiting for.