#Japan #Tokyo #Tsukada Farm Plus #Tai Meshi #Fabex 2025

Tsukada Farm Plus Triumphs at Fabex 2025

In a remarkable demonstration of culinary excellence, Tsukada Farm Plus, a subsidiary of A.P. Holdings Group, was awarded the Gold Prize at the 16th Fabex Side Dishes & Bento Grand Prix 2025. The accolade was bestowed upon their product, "Premium Tai Meshi Makunouchi selected by connoisseurs from Oofunato fishing port in Iwate Prefecture," acknowledging its innovative approach towards sustainable seafood usage.

A Commitment to Sustainable Seafood

The natural sea bream used in this dish was sourced from Oofunato fishing port in Iwate Prefecture. Unlike the standard size often demanded in markets, these smaller-sized fish were deemed to hold less market value, causing them to be discarded or relegated to bait or feed, thus classified as "unused fish." Despite their lesser commercial appeal, these fish are succulent and flavorful. Tsukada Farm Plus recognized this situation and boldly partnered with local wholesalers and processors to develop a new bento that highlights this often-overlooked seafood.

Honoring Producer Connections and Resource Value

The award stands as a testament to Tsukada Farm Plus’s commitment to nurturing close relationships with producers and a dedication to valuing limited natural resources. With a resolve to continue creating high-quality and delicious bento, the company is exploring deeper connections with local seafood producers to promote responsible consumption.

The Dish: Premium Tai Meshi

Priced at 1,290 yen (including tax), the Premium Tai Meshi Makunouchi showcases the delicate flavors of Iwate's natural sea bream. The rice is meticulously cooked using the bream's bones and scraps, allowing each grain to absorb the fish's rich umami flavor. Topped with tender slices of fish and vibrant salmon roe, this bento brings a new level of indulgence to the humble rice dish.

Two Key Accompaniments

1. Chicken Nanban: This bento also features Tsukada Farm’s renowned Chicken Nanban, known as the bestseller among their offerings. The tender chicken, coated in a sweet vinegar sauce, is complemented by a homemade tartar sauce made from their signature "Tsukadama" eggs.
2. Egg Omlet: Made with Tsukadama eggs, the finely fried egg omlet stands out with its rich flavor and fluffy texture, adding to the bento’s visual appeal and overall enjoyment. Additional sides include simmered blowfish and yuba, savory bamboo shoots, and pickled ginger, all carefully designed for a balanced and colorful meal experience.

Developer Insight

During a visit to Oofunato fishing port, the developers witnessed the struggles of local producers who had been discarding smaller-sized bream marked as "non-standard" due to regulations. Despite the additional labor required for the smaller fish, their soft skin and plump flesh present an extraordinary flavor. Believing it was essential to utilize these currently underappreciated fish, Tsukada Farm Plus developed this unique bento, collaborating directly with local stakeholders throughout the sourcing and processing stages.

Future Aspirations

Tsukada Farm Plus remains committed to collaborating with producers nationwide, aiming to continually craft products that embody the sentiments and stories of the agricultural community. Their approach to bento emphasizes not just taste but the narrative behind the ingredients, fostering a deeper connection between consumers and those who provide their food.

With a robust history of awards—including the 2016 Gold Prize for their Chicken Nanban bento and multiple accolades recognizing their dedication to quality and sustainability—Tsukada Farm Plus is setting a new standard in the bento industry.

Company Background

Founded on the principle of emphasizing the story behind food, Tsukada Farm Plus sources ingredients directly from producers, ensuring both high quality and the embodiment of their values in every meal prepared. Located in Tokyo's Toshima Ward, the company has evolved since its establishment in 2015 to become a leader in the bento industry, constantly innovating to enrich the Japanese meal experience.

Explore more about Tsukada Farm Plus and their authentic bento offerings at their official website.