Jibuni

　When it comes to Kanazawa’s signature local dish, Jibuni is the answer. It consists of duck or chicken, seasonal vegetables and sudare-fu (a type of wheat gluten noodle) simmered in a dashi broth and served with wasabi. As the meat is generously coated in wheat flour or potato starch, the dish develops a thick, creamy consistency, allowing it to be enjoyed whilst still piping hot.

　Whilst duck is the standard choice today, it seems that in the past, people would catch thrushes—a winter bird in Japan—grind them up with the bones still in, and shape the mixture into balls, much like tsukune (Japanesechicken meatball), to eat.

　With its bitterly cold winters and frequent spells of inclement weather, Jibuni, which warms the body right to the core, is an indispensable dish for the people of Kanazawa.