Narutomaki

Narutomaki or naruto is a traditional type of fish cake and a type of kamaboko (cured fish surimi) that’s most commonly used as ramen topping. It’s made by wrapping white fish paste (surimi) that’s been colored with red food dye around undyed fish paste.

The combination is rolled into a log, steamed until solid, then cut into thin slices. On the cross-section, there is a spiral after which it was named because it’s reminiscent of the famous Naruto whirlpools which appear between Shikoku and Awaji Island.

The flavor of naruto is mild and fishy, while the texture is chewy. Originally, it was used in ramen in order to make a contrast to the brown colors of the ingredients which were served in a ramen bowl. (the broth, chashu, and menma).