Takoyaki Yasan

Meiji's takoyaki candy kit

Meiji’s Takoyakiyasan (たこやきやさん) is probably one of the more interesting novelty candy toys we’ve come across. Despite its simple packing and cheaper price of 158 yen, it is perhaps also the most complete Japanese DIY candy set we’ve encountered so far, after the famous viral DIY Sushi Candy one. Here we try making some gummy octopus balls.

As with many other Japanese candies, the Takoyakiyasan kit has constantly changed its packaging since its launch in 2008. 2012′s newer incarnation looks more like this but its contents are pretty much always the same. Meiji also carries another similar festival themed Takoyakiyasan product, though I’m not sure how they would differ.

As you can see from the video above, there’s quite a few steps involved in making the candy takoyaki. Considering that process is the main point for such kits though, this should be seen as a plus. Everything required is available straight out the packet and the steps are easy enough to follow even for younger children.

Instructions on the back. A lot more steps than other cheap kits.

The contents.

To start things off, you’ve got to mix the main satchel here with a little bit of water in the side tray provided and pour the resultant mixture into the takoyaki mold. We did make one mistake though, and in our haste poured out all of the takoyaki “batter”, when we were really supposed to just fill the tray half full, top it off with the gummy octopuses then cover it up with the rest of the mix. But, we spent a little time spinning the takoyaki balls around the gummy octopus and all was good.

Pouring into the mold.

Putting in the gummy octopus.

You’ve only got 3 minutes between mixing up the batter, pouring it out and shaping the balls before it hardens into its final gummy state, so a little haste is required. When it’s finally done, its time to top the candy takoyaki balls with the packet of “sauce” (caramel syrup) and candy bits.

After spinning and pouring on the condiments.

The result, though not exactly pretty due to our fumbling, was still better than many of the other novelty candies we’ve gone through recently. It’s also one of the more edible examples since you’re not required to handle your food directly at any point. In the end, most of the takoyaki ends up being pretty tasteless with just the gummy octopus being identical in taste to Meiji’s other seafood themed candy. Which is not bad at all.

Result of the gummy takoyaki.

If you find yourself amused by these Japanese do-it-yourself novelty candies, Takoyakiyasan will come as one of the better thought out kits. The fact that is themed after one of Japan’s most iconic street snacks will be an extra attraction for Japanophiles everywhere.