Kenpi, or imo-kenpi, is a traditional Japanese snack originating from Kōchi Prefecture, consisting of thin strips of sweet potato that are fried and coated in a hardened sugar glaze.
The preparation typically employs purple-skinned sweet potatoes, which are cut into uniform strips and deep fried until crisp. They are then coated with granulated sugar and cooked until the sugar reaches the hard crack stage. Once coated, the pieces are separated and allowed to cool, causing the sugar to recrystallize into a crunchy, sweet exterior.
Variations in preparation include the use of different sweet potato cultivars, inclusion of skins, adjustments in seasoning, and modifications of the sugar glaze such as incorporating ginger, caramel, or other flavor components.
Due to its high sugar content and moisture sensitivity, kenpi is typically packaged immediately after cooling to retain its crisp texture. The snack is widely available across Japan and is commonly sold in supermarkets and convenience stores under a variety of private labels.