Jingisukan
At a glance
| Name | Jingisukan (Jingisukan) |
|---|---|
| Prefecture | Hokkaido |
| Region | Hokkaido & Tohoku |
| Type | Grilled lamb or mutton |
What is it?
Jingisukan is Hokkaido's communal lamb or mutton barbecue, commonly cooked with onions, bean sprouts, cabbage, and other vegetables on a domed metal grill. Juices run down from the meat and season the vegetables below.
Two broad styles coexist: meat grilled plain and dipped in sauce, and meat marinated before cooking. The preferred balance varies across Hokkaido and between specialist restaurants.
History and local context
Sheep-raising policy and growing interest in lamb during the twentieth century helped the dish take root in Hokkaido. It spread widely after the Second World War and became a fixture of beer halls, outdoor gatherings, and home meals.
How to enjoy it
Cook small batches so the meat stays tender, and let the vegetables catch the savory drippings without burning. Ask whether the restaurant serves marinated meat or a separate dipping sauce.
Availability varies by maker, season, and destination.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Jingisukan from?
It is associated with Hokkaido, in the Hokkaido & Tohoku region of Japan.
What kind of food is Jingisukan?
This guide classifies it as grilled lamb or mutton. See the overview for its defining ingredients and texture.
Can I order Jingisukan online?
Use the Rakuten Japan search link on this page. Confirm the maker, ingredients, storage requirements, and international shipping before ordering.
Order from Japan
Search Rakuten Japan using the original Japanese food name. Search results and product pages may be available only in Japanese.
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