Grilled mackerel somen, the typical cuisine of Shiga prefecture, Japan

Grilled mackerel somen is the typical cuisine of Nagahama city, located in the northern region of Shiga prefecture, Japan. At first, a savory grilled mackerel is simmered to taste salty-sweet, and somen noodles (very thin Japanese noodles made of wheat flour) are boiled in the broth to blend the flavor. Finally, place the mackerel on top. We can eat it as a side dish or as a main meal.

I bought this dish at the food section of the local supermarket. I added the leaves and fruits of Nanten (heavenly bamboo).

I think this is a common way of arranging a dish, including homemade dishes.

 

On the other hand, this dish was arranged by a friend of mine at the cooking class she took part in recently.　You can notice that a whole grilled mackerel is used. This is the first time I've ever seen such an arrangement like this. Apparently, the whole mackerel made a big impact on the dish arrangement.

By the way, I think this is the unique way to roll seasoned somen like a whirlpool to make it look appetizing. Also I think decorative cuttings of carrot will add colors to the dish. For that reason, this dish is the masterpiece of Grilled mackerel somen, don' t you think so?