Shiga Ebi-mame: Lake Shrimp and Soybeans

Ebi-mame simmers small Lake Biwa sujiebi with soybeans in sugar, soy, sake and mirin, sometimes with a little vinegar. It joins lake fishing and surrounding agriculture and has served...

Shiga Ebi-mame: Lake Shrimp and Soybeans
Illustration showing the defining features of the food.

At a glance

NameShiga Ebi-mame: Lake Shrimp and Soybeans (Ebi-mame)
PrefectureShiga
RegionKansai
TypeLake Biwa sujiebi and soybeans simmered sweet-savory

What is it?

Ebi-mame simmers small Lake Biwa sujiebi with soybeans in sugar, soy, sake and mirin, sometimes with a little vinegar.

It joins lake fishing and surrounding agriculture and has served celebrations, memorials, festivals and everyday meals.

History and local context

Shiga associates curved shrimp and mame with a wish for long, diligent life, while household simmering methods differ.

Shrimp and soybean are allergens; cook whole small shrimp and check hard shell or antennae for vulnerable diners.

How to enjoy it

Chew shrimp and soybean together in small portions for sweet-savory stock and shell fragrance.

Availability varies by maker, season, and destination.

Sources and further reading

Frequently asked questions

Where is Shiga Ebi-mame: Lake Shrimp and Soybeans from?

It is associated with Shiga, in the Kansai region of Japan.

What kind of food is Shiga Ebi-mame: Lake Shrimp and Soybeans?

This guide classifies it as lake biwa sujiebi and soybeans simmered sweet-savory. See the overview for its defining ingredients and texture.

Can I order Shiga Ebi-mame: Lake Shrimp and Soybeans 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.

This section contains an advertising affiliate link to Rakuten Japan.