Last update October 19, 2025
Japanese Food - Mentai Ko -
Mentai Ko
[meh-n-tah-ih-koh]
めんたいこ, 明太子
Pepper-Marinated Pollock Roe
Also called “Karashi Mentai” (Chilli pepper Mentai) or “Tarako” (Child of Pollock), Mentai Ko is the salted roe of pollock marinated in a special spicy sauce seasoned with Japanese chilli peppers. It’s a local speciality of Fukuoka Prefecture in Kyushu, the southern part of Japan. Whether served as is or lightly broiled, it makes a nice companion to a bowl of hot Gohan, or a delightful filling for Onigiri. In addition to its combination with rice, Mentai Ko expands menu options by being used as an ingredient in a variety of foodstuffs. It has led to the creation of popular dishes such as Tarako spaghetti, Tarako French bread, and even Mentai Ko versions of snacks, including potato chips, as well as commercial snacks that serve as souvenirs of Kyushu.
A typical Mentai Ko product.
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Chirimen Jako mixed with Mentai Ko.
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Furikake of Mentai on Gohan.
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Bread baked with Mentai Ko paste spread.
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A typical Mentai Ko product.
Chirimen Jako mixed with Mentai Ko.
Furikake of Mentai on Gohan.
Bread baked with Mentai Ko paste spread.
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