#Japan #Tokyo #Cooking Challenge #Seafood Contest #UOKATSU

Unleash Your Culinary Creativity in the 27th Seafood Cooking Contest!

The Japan Fisheries Cooperative Association (JF全漁連) is hosting the 27th Seafood Cooking Contest this summer, inviting all culinary enthusiasts to showcase their talents and creativity in making seafood dishes. With the theme "Bringing Seafood Closer to Home – Always UOKATSU!", the contest encourages participants to explore the joy of cooking with fresh, domestic seafood. Not only does this initiative celebrate Japan's rich seafood culture, but it also promotes sustainable sourcing, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Contest Overview

Participants can enter in two main categories:
1. Student Category: Designed for those aspiring to become professional chefs, where creativity meets simplicity in presenting stylish yet easy-to-make recipes.
2. General Public Category (UOKATSU): This category opens its doors to anyone with a passion for cooking and encourages participants to share recipes that are quick and easy to prepare.

Who Can Enter?

• - Student Category: Open to students from culinary schools, high schools with culinary programs, and nutrition-related colleges and universities. Students from home economics departments aiming to become food professionals are also welcome to apply. Participants must choose between this category or the general public category.
• - UOKATSU Category: This category welcomes participants from all walks of life, including elementary school students. Kids are encouraged to enter in pairs with their parents or grandparents.

Application Requirements

To be eligible for either category, participants must reside in Japan and be available for the practical evaluation and awards ceremony scheduled for January 10, 2027. High school students must have a guardian or supervising teacher accompany them.

Ingredients

Participants in both categories must use domestic seafood or seaweed. For the UOKATSU category, common fish available in supermarkets can be utilized. Processed products like canned seafood and dried fish are acceptable as long as the main ingredient is domestically sourced.

How to Apply

There are two application methods:
1. Online Submission: Participants can apply via the official Seafood Cooking Contest website by filling in the necessary information and uploading a photo of their dish by September 30, 2026.
2. Mail Submission: For those preferring traditional methods, download the required application form from the contest website, fill it out, attach a photo of your dish, and send it by mail to arrive by September 15, 2026.

Where to Send Mail?

〒104-0033 Tokyo, Chuo City, Shinkawa 1-28-44, Shinkawa KT Building, JF全漁連 Consumer Expansion Strategy Room, "Seafood Cooking Contest".

What’s in it for You?

This is not just a chance to display your culinary prowess but an opportunity to rediscover the deliciousness of Japanese seafood. Numerous prizes and awards will be given out, and you’ll have the opportunity to join the beloved mascot, Bandaanapukupu (illustrated by Sakana-kun), throughout the contest journey.

So, gear up this summer for an exciting culinary challenge! Dive into the world of seafood cooking and make your recipes shine. For more details and FAQs, visit the official website of the 27th Seafood Cooking Contest.