Ganmodoki

Ganmodoki is a delightful Japanese dish that consists of a fried tofu fritter filled with vegetables such as carrots, lotus roots, and burdock. Sometimes, it even includes an egg. The name "Ganmodoki" intriguingly translates to "pseudo-goose" as it is said to mimic the taste of goose, much like how mock turtle soup replicates the flavor of turtle.

Often, people simply call it "ganmo" for short.

During the Edo period, Ganmodoki was quite different—it was a stir-fried konjac dish. However, the recipe has evolved over time. Today, it is made by incorporating chopped vegetables into mashed tofu, similar to the preparation of a manjū, and then deep frying it until it achieves a crispy, golden exterior.

If you find yourself in Western Japan, you might hear it referred to by various names such as "hiryōzu" "hiryuzu" or "hirōsu." These names derive from the Portuguese word "filhós" or the Spanish "fillos" reflecting a fascinating blend of culinary influences.