[Fukushima Prefecture] The ultimate sweetness that drips down | Let's enjoy spring asparagus to the fullest

Spring has arrived, and the season for delicious vegetables has arrived. This time we will introduce fresh asparagus from the Aizu region of Fukushima Prefecture.

The large asparagus is thick enough and straight. However, it is very soft and delicious. The sweetness and flavor that drips from the cut end is irresistible.

We will introduce the characteristics of Aizu asparagus and recipes to enjoy it deliciously. Don't miss out on this exclusive taste.

A major producer of asparagus | Aizu region of Fukushima Prefecture

The Aizu region of Fukushima Prefecture is a major producer of asparagus. Fukushima Prefecture ranks fifth in the nation in terms of asparagus planted area. More than 90% of this is in the Aizu region.

The Aizu region has long been known for its rice cultivation, and is rich in fertile soil and clean water. And the cool climate unique to snowy countries grows delicious asparagus.

Asparagus cultivation in the Aizu region is said to have started around 1965. Through repeated trial and error, we were able to produce asparagus that was both soft and sweet. Due to its high quality, it is now a famous brand recognized throughout the country.

Characteristics of Aizu asparagus

The characteristics of Aizu asparagus are its deliciousness, variety, and long harvest season.

■deliciousness

Asparagus in Aizu is grown in fertile soil, clean water, and a cool climate with large temperature differences. Therefore, it is characterized by its strong sweetness and softness. Spring-picked asparagus, which can be harvested in early May, is especially thick and firm, making it a satisfying meal.

■Abundance of variety

What's surprising about Aizu's asparagus is the variety of varieties. In addition to the common green and white asparagus, there are purple and pink asparagus, so you can add some color to your salad.

We also have original varieties of asparagus from Fukushima Prefecture.

  • Harukitar (soft and juicy texture)
  • Fukukitara (characterized by its strong flavor and crunchy texture)
  • Harumachi Green (thick and splendid)
  • Harumurasaki F (Highly nutritious and can be eaten raw)

I would love to try it and compare.

■length of harvest season

The normal harvest time for asparagus is May and July. However, Aizu asparagus can be enjoyed from late March to October.

The secret is the abundance of cultivation methods. By combining various cultivation methods such as forced cultivation using greenhouses in addition to outdoor cultivation, we are able to harvest asparagus for a long time.

How do you like asparagus? Introducing recommended recipes

Aizu asparagus is delicious, but we will introduce some recommended ways to eat it to fully enjoy its charm.

grilled asparagus

To enjoy fresh asparagus, we recommend grilling it. Of course, it's delicious when boiled, but the sweetness becomes even stronger when you bake it.

The approximate baking time for each cooking utensil is as follows. Please adjust the amount depending on the output and firepower of your home appliances.

  • Frying pan over low to medium heat: 4 to 6 minutes on each side (if it is thick, cover it with a lid)
  • Grill: 3-4 minutes on each side
  • Toaster: about 5 minutes

Just sprinkle a little salt and you've created a dish that will let you enjoy the deliciousness of asparagus.

Fried asparagus/tempura

If you can get thick and nice asparagus, we also recommend frying it. By coating it in batter and frying it in oil, the sweetness is concentrated. When you take a bite, the flavor of juicy asparagus bursts out from within the crispy coating.

Wrapping asparagus with pork or ham, or sandwiching cheese between the two before coating, makes it a hearty and filling main dish.

Asparagus peperoncino

When you add asparagus to your usual peperoncino, it becomes a stylish pasta that is colorful and feels like spring. Garlic and olive oil go well with the sweet asparagus, and their synergistic effect enhances the overall deliciousness.

It's easy to make and looks great, so it's recommended as a dish for entertaining.

summary

This time we introduced asparagus from the Aizu region of Fukushima Prefecture.

Soft and sweet asparagus is a seasonal flavor that signals the arrival of spring. The Aizu region takes advantage of its blessed climate and years of trial and error to produce a wide variety of delicious asparagus.

We have also introduced three recipes that allow you to easily enjoy the delicious flavor of asparagus. I would be happy if you could try it and find a taste that is unique to today.

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