Ganbare Bari Katsuo-kun Ginger Soy Snack Chips by Sealuck: An Addictive New Bonito-and-Peanut Drinking Snack

One thing I notice while browsing souvenir sections around Japan is how many products devote far more attention to package design than ordinary supermarket goods do. Makers know they have only an instant to catch a shopper’s eye and remain in their mind. Souvenir stores are fascinating precisely because they contain so many products competing in this way. The item featured here has a highly striking package and a name that is equally hard to forget: “Ganbare Bari Katsuo-kun.” I found it in the well-stocked souvenir section at Ashigara Service Area. Among rows of famous regional specialties, this was the one I chose. Once home, I looked at it again and wondered why I had decided I wanted to eat it (laughs). Nevertheless, it proved extremely recommendable for drinkers and anyone who loves savory snacks, so here is my review.

Ganbare Bari Katsuo-kun Ginger Soy Sauce Snack Chips by Sealuck

The 25-gram bag costs ¥162. I was drawn to the surreal, hand-drawn-looking comic on the package. The price was reasonable too, and I thought it might make a good snack with alcohol (^^) The best-before date is printed on the back; mine was about five months after purchase. What exactly are bonito flakes designed to be eaten by hand like chips? I was curious. One bag contains 134 kcal. Incidentally, a convenience store within the same service area sold it for several dozen yen less. I noticed only after buying it at the souvenir shop and felt mildly shocked. Please do not do this to us!

How do Ganbare Bari Katsuo-kun Ginger Soy Sauce Snack Chips taste?

Most of all, what kind of flavor could they possibly have? Let’s try them (^^) I poured them onto a plate. The bonito pieces are finer than I expected and irregular in shape, some large and some small. Peanuts are mixed in as well, perhaps to be eaten like kaki-pi. The bonito is crisp, with a fun variety of textures: some pieces are light and crunchy while others are slightly firm. It truly feels like eating a snack. The seasoning is strongly sweet and savory, with the rich taste of ginger soy sauce, and it soon becomes addictive. Each bite gradually releases the deep umami of bonito and tastes delicious (^^) Pick up the bonito with a peanut and it becomes even harder to stop. This is perfect when you are already full but still want something small with a drink. Wasabi mayonnaise and spicy varieties were available too, and I would love to try them next time. I was disappointed by the price difference, but the flavor became such a favorite that I forgive them. Thank you for the treat!

Ganbare Bari Katsuo-kun Ginger Soy Sauce Snack Chips Product Info, Expiration Date, Manufacturer