Taiyaki and takoyaki are Japanese snacks known for their unique flavors and textures. They are commonly found at street food stalls throughout Japan. Served warm, they are prepared to be enjoyed on the go.

There names are quite similar, hence both snacks sometimes get confused for each other.

In this post, we find out the characteristics that set these snacks apart. 

What is Taiyaki? 

Taiyaki is a fish-shaped cake that is filled with sweet fillings. The outside is made of a batter similar to pancake batter, which gives it a soft, fluffy texture.

Traditionally, the most common filling is red bean paste, made from adzuki beans. However, taiyaki can also be found with other fillings like custard, chocolate, and even sweet potato.

The cakes are cooked in special molds that give them their unique fish shape, making them not only tasty but also visually appealing. 

What is Takoyaki? 

Takoyaki is a savory snack that consists of round balls made from a batter. The batter is made from wheat flour, and the main ingredient is diced or minced octopus, which gives it its name—”tako” means octopus in Japanese. Other common ingredients include green onions, tempura scraps, and pickled ginger. Takoyaki is cooked in a special pan with round molds that give it its characteristic ball shape. 

Once cooked, takoyaki balls are usually brushed with a tangy sauce, sprinkled with bonito flakes (dried fish flakes), and topped with a drizzle of mayonnaise. They are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, creating a delightful texture that many enjoy. 

Difference Between Taiyaki and Takoyaki 

Flavor

One of the main differences between taiyaki and takoyaki is their flavor profile. Taiyaki is sweet, making it a popular dessert option.

The combination of the fluffy cake and sweet filling creates a comforting and enjoyable taste. On the other hand, takoyaki is savory and hearty, filled with the umami flavor of octopus and other ingredients. This makes takoyaki more of a meal or snack rather than a dessert. 

Shape and Texture 

Another difference lies in their shape and texture. Taiyaki is fish-shaped and has a soft, fluffy texture that is enjoyable to bite into. The outside is lightly crisp, while the inside is warm and sweet.

On the other hand, takoyaki is round and has a unique texture that is both crispy on the outside and soft and gooey on the inside. The contrast between the crispy exterior and the tender filling makes takoyaki a unique treat. 

Preparation

The cooking methods for taiyaki and takoyaki also differ.

Taiyaki is cooked in a special fish-shaped mold that gives it its distinctive appearance. The batter is poured in, followed by the filling, and then covered with more batter before being flipped to ensure even cooking.

On the other hand, takoyaki is cooked in a pan with round molds. The batter is poured in, and as it cooks, it is turned with special picks to form perfectly round balls.