Fukuoka GSDF, Iizuka Garrison "Bota-yama Curry

Saeko Do you know what "Bota-yama" is all of a sudden?

Konzaki I've never heard of it. Is it a Botamochi?

Saeko Bota-yama is an accumulation site for waste rock (Bota) that is mixed in during coal mining. In Iizuka City in Fukuoka, which flourished as a coal mining town, it still remains as a symbol of the community.

Konzaki I'm one wiser now. But why the "Bota Mountain" all of a sudden?

Saeko Actually, I received "Botayama Curry" as a souvenir from Fukuoka. Apparently, it's a specialty of the cafeteria at the JGSDF Iizuka Camp.


Konzaki I wonder what it tastes like. Let's try it right away!

How to make Bota Mountain Curry

Saeko 1: Inside is a bag of retort-packed curry. You have to prepare the rice yourself.

Konzaki In the picture on the package, the rice is not white rice, but black rice made with edible bamboo charcoal. This is said to represent Mount Bota.

Saeko How about using squid smelt sauce instead?

Konzaki : I'm a little worried about the taste, but it will turn black. Put the white rice mixed with the sauce in a deep bowl and turn it over on a plate...


Saeko ... a mountain of botas appeared! Glad it worked out better than I thought.


Konzaki Finally, an egg is placed on top of the egg to resemble the moon shining on Mount Bota.

Bota Mountain Curry

Saeko The curry is made to resemble "coal black" by using spices. The first bite was mellower than expected!

Konzaki The first bite is mellower than expected: you can feel the richness of the vegetable and chicken extracts infused in the roux. The spiciness comes later.


Saeko The filling is a beef dice, and it's luscious!

Konzaki The meat is tender, but some of it was a little tough. All of them have a good flavor!

Saeko I was worried about the curry, but the curry and the rice with squid meat go together quite well. The addition of the seafood flavor, which is different from that of the meat, adds depth to the flavor.


Konzaki The result is a good match. Eggs are a good match, not to mention

Saeko : Happy to eat it with the rich yolk involved~!


Konzaki The spicy aftertaste is addictive!

Pay attention to the packaging!

Saeko I was crazy about eating it, but if you take a closer look, you'll see that the packaging is also very elaborate.


Konzaki Inside: Iizuka City and Bota Mountain Curry are introduced with pictures. Looks like a travel brochure.

Saeko The back side has an explanation of Iizuka Garrison. It's fun not only to eat but also to gain knowledge about various things!


Konzaki Fukuoka is a good place for a slightly different kind of souvenir!