Kamakura Kenchin-jiru (Kencho-jiru)
Kenchin-jiru fries daikon, carrot, burdock, taro, konnyaku and crumbled tofu in oil, then simmers them in kombu and dried-shiitake stock seasoned with salt and soy sauce. Kenchoji in...
At a glance
| Name | Kamakura Kenchin-jiru (Kencho-jiru) (Kenchin-jiru) |
|---|---|
| Prefecture | Kanagawa |
| Region | Kanto |
| Type | Clear Buddhist root-vegetable and crumbled-tofu soup |
What is it?
Kenchin-jiru fries daikon, carrot, burdock, taro, konnyaku and crumbled tofu in oil, then simmers them in kombu and dried-shiitake stock seasoned with salt and soy sauce. Kenchoji in Kamakura writes the name as Kencho-jiru and preserves a meatless Buddhist form.
Chicken, pork, bonito stock and miso appear in household versions nationwide, but they should not be presented as the temple's vegetarian recipe.
History and local context
A Cultural Affairs Agency survey records root vegetables, greens and sesame oil and use during intensive training and hospitality at Kenchoji. The fallen-tofu story is a temple origin tradition.
A second etymology connects kenchin with the Chinese-derived Buddhist dish kenchen. The temple lineage is real, while one exclusive origin of the word remains uncertain.
How to enjoy it
Taste the shiitake-kombu broth and sesame-oil aroma first, then combine tofu and roots. Add yuzu or shichimi only after judging the delicate soy seasoning; cool leftovers promptly and reheat fully.
Availability varies by maker, season, and destination.
Sources and further reading
Frequently asked questions
Where is Kamakura Kenchin-jiru (Kencho-jiru) from?
It is associated with Kanagawa, in the Kanto region of Japan.
What kind of food is Kamakura Kenchin-jiru (Kencho-jiru)?
This guide classifies it as clear buddhist root-vegetable and crumbled-tofu soup. See the overview for its defining ingredients and texture.
Can I order Kamakura Kenchin-jiru (Kencho-jiru) online?
Use the Rakuten Japan search link on this page. Confirm the maker, ingredients, storage requirements, and international shipping before ordering.
Order from Japan
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