EAT: Hotate – Scallops (Grilled)

About to dig into Hotate

During the past week, I had a chance to visit Sapporo for their 16th Annual Snow Festival. And, damn was it cold. It was probably the most extreme cold I have ever experienced in my life. But, there was one positive side to this weather, cold-water scallops from the coasts of Hokkaido.

Vendor grilling Hotate at the Sapporo Snow Festival

At the Sapporo Fish Market and the Snow Festival, these giant scallops were everywhere. They are about the size of an adult hand. You can buy one grilled scallop for ¥ 200, about $2.00, at the festival.

Scallops at the Sapporo Fish Market

It is very easy to prepare these scallops on the grill. Because they are fresh and flavorful already, not much is needed to grill them. A few tablespoon of soy sauce and some butter should do the trick. Unlike Americans who grill scallops directly on the fire, the Japanese grill them in their shells, which is great for capturing the sweet juices that add to tasting experience.

My WOW Factor: 8/10