#Japan #Takamatsu #Spicy Food #Hanamaru Udon #Mala Oden

Hanamaru Udon Unveils 'Mala Oden' for Winter

Hanamaru Udon, the well-known Sanuki udon chain, has announced an exciting new addition to its menu: 'Mala Oden'. Starting from January 15, 2026, this limited-time dish will be available in 66 locations until February 11, 2026. The name 'Mala', which reflects its spicy character, is complemented with a potent red broth and the distinctive numbing flavor of Sichuan peppercorns, perfectly suited for the chilly winter season.

A New Twist on a Classic

For years, Hanamaru Udon has been synonymous with delicious udon and tempura, and this winter, they are introducing a bone-warming and stimulating twist on the traditional oden. By incorporating the popular 'Mala' spice trend, the new dish is not just spicy but also highlights the umami of seafood broth, resulting in an impressively rich flavor profile that pairs well with their signature udon.

A Sensory Experience

Visually striking and incredibly flavorful, the 'Mala Oden' is designed to stimulate the senses. The red broth, bold with concentrated beef flavor, is achieved using a blend of chili and doubanjiang, creating a fiery appearance. Furthermore, the use of whole Sichuan peppercorns adds an explosive aroma and unique spiciness that gives the dish its authentic taste.

Spice Layering

The 'Mala Oden' features a complex array of spices, including black pepper, five-spice powder, and star anise, all expertly blended to create a harmonious balance of flavors. The broth maintains a light consistency while showcasing the depth of the spices, ensuring that customers will want to savor every last drop.

A Selection of Ingredients

The dish offers seven selectable ingredients to complement the 'Mala' soup. Here’s a glimpse of the tasty options:

• - Mala Daikon: A favorite choice, soaked in the rich red broth for a juicy bite.
• - Mala Beef Tendon: Tender texture meets spicy broth, making a perfect match.
• - Mala Hamburger: Packed with flavor and a great blend of meat and spice to entice younger patrons.

Other offerings include Mala Eggs, Mala Konjac, Mala Shirataki, and Mala Deep Fried Tofu.

Pricing Overview

Here’s a breakdown of the pricing for the ingredients:

• - Mala Daikon: ¥150
• - Mala Beef Tendon: ¥200
• - Mala Hamburger: ¥250
• - Mala Egg: ¥140
• - Mala Konjac: ¥120
• - Mala Shirataki: ¥120
• - Mala Deep Fried Tofu: ¥150

All prices include tax, and both dine-in and take-out orders are at the same price point. Note that pricing might vary at certain locations, including delivery options.

Campaign Celebration

To celebrate the launch of 'Mala Oden', Hanamaru Udon will also host a special campaign on X (formerly Twitter), where participants can win a free udon coupon. Kicking off on the evening of January 15, 2026, the campaign allows customers to participate daily until January 24, 2026, with winners announced instantly.

To join:
1. Follow Hanamaru Udon’s official account on X (@hanamaru_udon).
2. Repost the campaign post.
3. Receive your winning announcement immediately.

Every day, one lucky winner will receive three free udon coupons.

Oidemai! Sanuki Project

Founded in 2000 in Takamatsu, Kagawa, Hanamaru Udon is celebrating its 25th anniversary with the launch of the Oidemai! Sanuki Project. This initiative focuses on preserving and promoting the Sanuki udon culture and enticing visitors to Kagawa. In Sanuki dialect, 'Oidemai' means 'Welcome,' and through this project, Hanamaru Udon aims to deliver delightful products and services that encourage people to savor Sanuki udon and visit Kagawa.

The company is committed to its mission of providing delicious surprises to customers during this special year, ensuring that the legacy of Sanuki udon is upheld and cherished.

For more details about the new 'Mala Oden' and the Oidemai! Sanuki Project, visit the official Hanamaru Udon website.