Inari Age (Seasoned Tofu Pouches)

Inari age are fried tofu pouches simmered in sweet soy seasoning. Stuff them with rice for inarizushi.

Updated Oct 20, 2026. Edited by: Ilyass Ben Hakim.

Where to buy

Japanese and Asian grocers stock inari age. Look for cans, shelf stable pouches, chilled and frozen packs. Search also for inari sushi pockets or seasoned fried bean curd.

Professional insight

Sushi cooks judge sweetness and pouch size. Pouches must open cleanly without tearing.

Unseasoned aburaage is a different product needing simmering.
Mini pouches suit bento; full size suits plated inarizushi.
Keep the syrup to season the rice lightly.
Frozen packs need full thawing before separating.

Check the label

Says seasoned or ajitsuke, not plain aburaage.
Number of pouches and net weight.
Storage: ambient, chilled or frozen.
Allergens: soy, and wheat if soy sauce is used.
Best-before date and lot code.
Pack or can is not swollen, dented or leaking.
Country of origin printed on the pack.

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Inari age basics

Base: Aburaage; Thin deep fried tofu.
Seasoning: Dashi, sugar, mirin, soy sauce; Varies by maker.
Main dish: Inarizushi; Pouches filled with sushi rice.

How to use it

1Make sushi rice and let it cool to body temperature.
2Lightly squeeze excess syrup from each pouch.
3Open the pouch gently with your fingers.
4Fill with a small ball of rice, leaving room to fold.
5Fold the edges closed or leave open with toppings.

Storage

Unopened shelf stable packs go in a cool, dark cupboard.
Once opened, refrigerate and use within about 2 days.
Freeze extras flat in a sealed bag, a few at a time.
Thaw frozen pouches fully in the fridge.

DIY steps

Some cooks find store bought pouches too sweet. Buy plain aburaage instead. Simmer it in dashi, sugar, mirin and soy sauce.

Common questions

Is inari age vegan?: Often, but some use fish based dashi. Read the ingredient list.
Can I eat it straight from the pack?: Yes, seasoned pouches are ready to eat. Plain aburaage needs cooking.
Where is it in the store?: Check the canned aisle, the chilled tofu case and the freezer.