Candied Sweet Potatoes: What is Kenpi?

If you have ever craved a crunchy, sweet, and utterly satisfying snack, then candied sweet potatoes might become your new favorite treat! Known as kenpi in Japan, this delightful snack takes the humble sweet potato and transforms it into a golden, caramel-coated masterpiece. 

You can find these at a Japanese market or even by experimenting in your kitchen. Candied sweet potatoes perfectly combine texture, flavor, and nostalgia. But what exactly is kenpi, and why has it become such a beloved part of Japanese snack culture? Let’s explore the origins of this crispy, sweet delight and how it fits into Japan’s rich culinary traditions.

What is kenpi?

Kenpi is a traditional Japanese snack made from sweet potatoes, sliced into thin sticks, deep-fried until golden and crispy, and coated with a shiny sugar glaze. The glaze gives the sweet potatoes a delightful crunch and a caramelized sweetness that makes them utterly addictive. What sets kenpi apart is its simple yet brilliant preparation. 

Combining the natural earthiness of sweet potatoes with the indulgence of a sugary coating, it strikes a perfect balance between wholesome and indulgent. Unsurprisingly, kenpi is a favorite snack for all ages in Japan, offering a satisfying crunch with every bite.

Where did kenpi come from?

Kenpi has its roots in Japan’s southern regions, particularly in Kyushu and Shikoku. Sweet potatoes have long been a staple crop in these areas, thriving in the warm, fertile soil. Historically, kenpi was a practical way to preserve sweet potatoes, as the sugar glaze acted as a natural preservative, allowing them to stay fresh and delicious for extended periods. 

Over time, this practical treat evolved into a beloved snack, celebrated for its unique texture and flavor. As Japan modernized, kenpi became more widely available, and its popularity spread nationwide. Today, it’s a staple in supermarkets, traditional sweet shops, and food markets, loved for its nostalgic charm and satisfying crunch.

How do you make it?

Making kenpi at home is an easy and enjoyable process that lets you savor this classic snack fresh from your kitchen. You begin by washing and peeling sweet potatoes, then slicing them into thin, fry-like sticks.

Next, you soak the sticks briefly in water to remove excess starch, which helps them fry up crispier. After thoroughly drying the slices, deep-fry them in hot oil until they turn a beautiful golden brown.

The Glazing Process

The magic happens when you toss the fried sweet potatoes in a sugar syrup glaze. You make the syrup by simmering sugar and water until it thickens into a glossy coating. Often, you add a dash of soy sauce to balance the sweetness with a subtle hint of saltiness.

Final Touches

Once you evenly coat the sweet potatoes, you let them cool and harden, creating that signature crispy exterior that kenpi is famous for. The result is a crunchy, sweet, and utterly satisfying snack—a testament to how a few simple ingredients can create something special.

Are you looking for great snacks like candied sweet potatoes? Check out TokyoTreat! TokyoTreat delivers limited-edition Japanese noodles, drinks, snacks, and sweets right to your door so you can enjoy the latest Japanese treats directly from Japan!

What other types of candied sweet potatoes are there in Japan?

Kenpi is just one of the many ways sweet potatoes are celebrated in Japanese cuisine. Here are a few other variations that highlight the versatility of this beloved root vegetable:

Daigaku-imo

Daigaku-imo, or “university potatoes,” are thick chunks of sweet potato deep-fried and coated with a caramelized sugar glaze. Unlike kenpi, these are soft and tender on the inside, making them a comforting and nostalgic treat that’s especially popular in Asakusa. They often come sprinkled with sesame seeds for an extra layer of flavor.

Satsuma-imo gohan

While not candied traditionally, satsuma-imo gohan is a sweet dish that combines sweet potatoes with glutinous rice, sugar, and sometimes sesame seeds. This chewy, slightly sweet dessert is often enjoyed during special occasions and celebrations in Japan.

Yakiimo

Yakiimo, or roasted sweet potatoes, are a wintertime favorite in Japan. Though not glazed with sugar, their natural sweetness intensifies during roasting, creating a warm, dessert-like treat perfect for chilly days.

Why are candied sweet potatoes so popular?

Candied sweet potatoes are popular because they perfectly balance flavor, texture, and nostalgia. Sweet potatoes are naturally sweet and nutritious, making them an ideal base for indulgent snacks like kenpi. The sugar glaze’s satisfying crunch, and the sweet potato’s earthy sweetness create a luxurious and comforting snack.

Snacks like kenpi and daigaku-imo also connect to Japan’s agricultural roots and remind people of the simple joys of thoughtfully prepared food. Have you ever had candied sweet potatoes or any of their variations? Let us know in the comments below—we’d love your thoughts!