Appetizers & Starters

Takoyaki Fries

Takoyaki Fries
Experience the ultimate fusion of Japanese street food and classic comfort with these Loaded Takoyaki Fries. Crispy golden fries are piled high with tender octopus, drizzled with savory-sweet sauces, and finished with umami-rich toppings that 'dance' on your plate.

Prep

15m

Cook

25m

Serves

4


1 Ingredients

Qty Ingredient
24 oz 680 g Frozen extra-crispy french fries
1 cup 150 g Cooked octopus (tako), cut into small bite-sized pieces
1/4 cup 60 ml Takoyaki sauce or Okonomiyaki sauce
1/4 cup 60 ml Japanese mayonnaise (Kewpie brand)
1/2 cup 5 g Katsuobushi (bonito flakes)
1 tsp 2 g Aonori (dried green seaweed powder)
1 tbsp 15 g Beni shoga (pickled red ginger), minced
2 stalks 20 g Green onions, finely sliced

2 Method

1

Step 1. Preheat your oven or air fryer according to the frozen fries package instructions. Cook the fries until they are golden brown and extra crispy to ensure they hold up under the toppings.

2

Step 2. While the fries are cooking, lightly sauté the diced octopus in a pan over medium heat for 2-3 minutes with a tiny drop of oil just to warm it through and slightly sear the edges. Set aside.

3

Step 3. Once the fries are done, transfer them to a large serving platter or individual bowls while they are still piping hot.

4

Step 4. Distribute the warmed octopus pieces evenly over the top of the fries.

5

Step 5. Drizzle the Takoyaki sauce in a zigzag pattern across the fries, followed by a similar zigzag pattern of Kewpie mayonnaise.

6

Step 6. Sprinkle the Aonori and minced pickled ginger over the sauces.

7

Step 7. Garnish generously with green onions and finish with the bonito flakes. Serve immediately while the flakes are still 'dancing' from the heat.

💡 Chef's Tips

  • ·

    Use crinkle-cut or waffle fries to provide more surface area for the sauces and toppings to cling to.

  • ·

    If you can't find octopus, substitute with chopped cooked shrimp or even diced imitation crab for a similar seafood profile.

  • ·

    Ensure the fries are extra crispy; soggy fries will not stand up to the heavy Japanese mayonnaise and takoyaki sauce.

  • ·

    For an extra kick, add a dash of Shichimi Togarashi (Japanese seven-spice) at the very end.

? FAQ

What does Takoyaki sauce taste like?
It is a thick, savory-sweet brown sauce similar to Worcestershire but thicker, often containing soy sauce, fruit purees, and dashi.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes! Omit the octopus and bonito flakes. Replace with diced king oyster mushrooms sautéed in soy sauce for a meaty texture.
Where can I find Aonori and Bonito flakes?
These are staples at Asian grocery stores or can be found in the international aisle of many well-stocked supermarkets.
Can I use regular mayonnaise?
You can, but Kewpie mayo is made with only egg yolks and MSG, giving it a much richer, creamier, and more umami-forward flavor that defines the dish.

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