Tarako Cream Pasta
Easy Tarako Cream Pasta (Japanese Cod Roe Pasta)
If you ask my kids what pasta they want for dinner, the answer is almost always the same: “Puchi Puchi” Pasta!
"Puchi puchi" is a Japanese onomatopoeia that describes the tiny popping sensation of cod roe in every bite. It's fun to eat, incredibly creamy, and one of the easiest Japanese pasta recipes you can make at home.
This Japanese-style cream pasta combines buttery spaghetti with salted cod roe (tarako), rich cream, and a splash of soy sauce. The result is a silky, umami-packed pasta that's ready in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Whether you use tarako or mentaiko, this simple recipe brings the comforting flavors of Japanese home cooking straight to your table.
What is Tarako?
Tarako (たらこ) is salted cod roe. The roe sacs are lightly salted to preserve their natural ocean flavor while maintaining their signature popping texture.
The word tarako comes from:
Tara (鱈) = cod
Ko (子) = child or eggs
In Japanese cooking, tarako is enjoyed in rice balls, rice bowls, on toast, and especially tossed with pasta.
Tarako vs. Mentaiko
Although they're often used interchangeably, there is one key difference.
Tarako
Salted cod roe
Mild, rich, and buttery flavor
Kid-friendly
Mentaiko
Salted cod roe marinated with chili peppers
Slightly spicy
More complex flavor
You can use either one in this recipe depending on your preference.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ready in only 15 minutes
Only 5 simple ingredients
Rich, creamy, and packed with umami
Family-friendly
Easy enough for weeknight dinners
Authentic Japanese pasta made at home
Tips for Success
Use hot pasta so the butter melts naturally.
Don't cook the tarako directly on the stove, as overheating changes its delicate texture.
Add shredded nori, shiso leaves, green onions, or extra butter for even more flavor.
If the sauce feels too thick, stir in a splash of reserved pasta water.
RECIPE
Servings: 3-4
Time: 15 min
Ingredients:
3-4 servings spaghetti
2 oz tarako, cod roe (or mentaiko)
1/3 cup heavy cream
1 tbsp butter
1 tbsp soy sauce
shredded nori for garnish
chopped onion for garnish
Instructions:
Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook the spaghetti until al dente according to the package instructions.
Reserve a little pasta water if needed, then drain.
Prepare the Tarako
Using a spoon or fork, gently remove the cod roe from the membrane.
Discard the membrane.
Mix the roe with the heavy cream and soy sauce until smooth.
Toss Everything Together
Add the hot cooked pasta to the bowl.
Add the butter and toss until the butter melts and the sauce evenly coats every strand.
Top with shredded nori and chopped green onions.
Serve immediately.
FAQ
What is Tarako Cream Pasta?
Tarako Cream Pasta is a Japanese pasta dish made with salted cod roe, heavy cream, butter, soy sauce, and spaghetti.
Can I substitute mentaiko?
Yes. Mentaiko creates a slightly spicy version of the same dish.
Is tarako already cooked?
No. Tarako is salted but generally uncooked. In this recipe, the residual heat from the pasta gently warms it without fully cooking it.
Where can I buy tarako?
You can usually find tarako or mentaiko in Japanese grocery stores or the frozen seafood section of Asian supermarkets.
Can I make it ahead?
This dish is best served immediately while the sauce is silky and creamy.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes! Tarako (non-spicy) is especially popular with children in Japan because of its mild flavor and fun popping texture.
You May Also Like
Try another Japanese Wafu Pasta recipes
