[Akita Prefecture] What is Akita's traditional vegetable "Chorogi"? A closer look at the mysterious ingredients that are essential for the New Year

It has an unfamiliar name, `` Chorogi People who see it for the first time may be surprised and wonder, "Is it food?" However, chorogi is a traditional vegetable that has been popular in areas such as Yuzawa City in Akita Prefecture for a long time, and is an indispensable lucky charm, especially during the New Year.

In addition to the impact of the name, its unique appearance and taste as a sweet and sour pickle attract many people. In this article, we will introduce in detail the characteristics of Chorogi, why it is eaten during New Year's, and how to purchase it. After reading this article, I'm sure you'll become interested in "Chorogi" and want to experience its mysterious charm!

What is Chorogi? Characteristics of traditional Akita vegetables

Chorogi has a unique name and appearance. What on earth does it taste like? I tried to solve the mystery of Chorogi.

Mysterious spiral appearance

Chorogi's biggest feature is its unique appearance. The ``spiral'' shape that resembles a snail is part of an underground rhizome. Generally, it is dyed red with plum vinegar, but it is originally creamy white. The bright red color dyed with plum vinegar is perfect for celebrations! Chorogi pickled in sweet vinegar retains its original white color, so it is sometimes served red and white along with pickled plums. The red color of pickled plums is said to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck, and it especially brightens up the New Year's table. Chorogi is loved not only because of its unique appearance, but also because it enhances the mood of celebrations when incorporated into the dining table.

Akita traditional vegetables introduced from China

Chorogi is said to be a traditional vegetable that originally came from China. It was introduced in Japan during the Edo period, and later spread as a place for celebrations and as a lucky charm. In addition to Japan, it has also been introduced to Europe and France, where it is sometimes sold in markets.

Currently, the main production area is Yuzawa City, Akita Prefecture, and there is even a subcommittee that cultivates Chorogi. However, due to the labor-intensive cultivation and harvesting process, the number of producers is decreasing, and the amount grown locally is limited. It is harvested from November to December when it snows, making winter farming difficult, but local people continue to make efforts to preserve its unique flavor and value as a food culture.

The crunchy texture is addictive.

Chorogi is often eaten pickled in sweet and sour vinegar, and is characterized by its crunchy texture. When you put it in your mouth, you can enjoy a faint sour taste and a refreshing aftertaste. People who like crunchy plums will definitely love this! When combined with oily or strongly seasoned dishes, it has a refreshing effect on the palate.

It goes particularly well with chopsticks and as a snack with alcohol, and its refreshing flavor makes it a versatile addition to the overall balance of the dish.

Why is Chorogi essential for New Year's? I looked into the reason

Chorogi is known nationwide as an essential dish for New Year's. I learned that especially in the Tohoku region, it is eaten as a lucky charm, such as in New Year's dishes or as an accompaniment to black beans. From here, I will explain why Chorogi is popular as a lucky charm.

“Chorogi” as a lucky charm

The name ``Chorogi'' is said to originate from the word Chorogi'' (an elder tree) This name has the meaning of wishing for ``long life'' and ``health,'' and has been valued as a lucky charm since ancient times. At the beginning of the year, called New Year's Day, chorogi is placed on the table to express wishes for the health and longevity of the family.

The color red is also considered suitable for celebrations and has the meaning of warding off evil spirits. For this reason, chorogi adds a vivid accent to osechi dishes and has become an important part of the dish, giving the appearance of good luck.

Standard dishes at Akita homes

Chorogi pickled in sweet and sour vinegar is a standard in Akita households, and is included as part of New Year's dishes and celebratory meals. It is often served with boiled beans or vinegared dishes, and its red color brightens up the entire table.

Some families also chop it finely and mix it into rice, or use it in local dishes. Hinai-ya, a famous oyakodon restaurant in Akita Prefecture, used to serve chorogi as a chopstick rest for oyakodon. It seems that pickles have been popular not only for celebrations but also for everyday meals since ancient times.

Where can I buy it? How to purchase Chorogi

Where can you buy chorogi, which are useful not only as lucky charms but also as chopstick rests?

Supermarkets and farm-direct stores near Akita

In Akita, chorogi is sold at local supermarkets and markets during the winter. Especially as the New Year approaches, they appear in stores and many locals can be seen buying them. When choosing fresh chorogi, it is best to choose ones that are bright in color and firm.

Also, at the farm-fresh store where local vegetables are lined up, you may even come across Chorogi before it is diluted with plum vinegar! You can pickle them with plum vinegar or sweet vinegar, or you can stir-fry them for a unique twist. If you find it, please enjoy making your own arrangements.

Available at supermarkets nationwide around New Year

Chorogi is an ingredient that is available not only in Akita but also at supermarkets across the country during the New Year season. It is sold in packs as sweet and sour pickles, and its appeal is the convenience of being able to use it immediately for cooking. In recent years, it has become easy to find in supermarkets nationwide, and one of the reasons for its popularity is that you can easily enjoy it without having to go to Akita.

In fact, they are sold as sweets! ?

In fact, Chorogi is sold as a sweet no matter where or when! Daiso sells individually wrapped Chorogi, making it easy to purchase. Previously, they were sold in individually wrapped packs, but now they are in zipper bags, making them easier to eat.

The taste is exactly like a crunchy plum, but the crunchiness is more like a chorogi. Also, the selling company also sells the same chorogi in different packaging, so if you find one, be sure to try them out!

summary

Chorogi, a traditional Akita vegetable, is loved by many people for its appearance, texture, taste, and even good luck. It is especially indispensable for New Year's dishes, and its red color and crunchy texture add color to the celebration.

Not only can you get fresh chorogi at supermarkets and markets in Akita, but you can also find them in supermarkets all over the country during the New Year period. They are also sold as sweets, so if you can find them, be sure to buy them.