Chankonabe (), also known as Chanko or Sumo Stew, is a Japanese cuisine stew (a type of nabemono or one-pot dish) commonly eaten in vast quantities by sumo wrestlers while trying to gain weight.
While considered a reasonably healthy dish in its own right, chankonabe is very protein-rich and usually served in massive quantities, with beer and rice to increase caloric intake. Leftover chankonabe broth can also later be used as broth for sōmen or udon noodles.
Chankonabe is traditionally served according to seniority, with the senior wrestlers and any guests of the sumo stable receiving first choice, and the junior wrestlers getting whatever is left.
Chankonabe served during honbasho is made exclusively with chicken, the idea being that a wrestler should always be on two legs like a chicken, and not on all fours.
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