Healthy recipes①
Also effective against summer fatigue!
~ Make Kyoto's traditional flavor "Chirimen Sansho" at home ~
Introduction
Chirimen Sansho is one of Kyoto's most famous local dishes. The exquisite combination of chirimen jako and fragrant sansho berries not only creates an unforgettable, elegant flavor, but also makes it an ideal dish that can be expected to have excellent health benefits.
Sansho berries are a beloved symbol of early summer, and their refreshing aroma and unique numbing spiciness have been passed down as a way to survive Kyoto's hot and humid summers. Sansho has also long been believed to have medicinal properties, and its effects of increasing appetite and facilitating digestion have been highly valued, which is another reason why this dish continues to be so beloved.
Key points for selecting materials
How to choose dried small sardines
High-quality dried small sardines are transparent and plump. Choose ones that are not too salty and do not have a fishy smell.
About Sansho
Sansho berries are a precious ingredient that are only available for a short period around June. Choose ones that are bright green and have uniform grains. They can be frozen, so it's recommended to buy them in bulk during the season and store them.
Sansho berries contain a compound called "sanshool," which is the source of their unique numbing spiciness. This compound is said to improve blood circulation and metabolism.
The nutritional value and excellent health benefits of dried sansho pepper
The nutritional benefits of dried small sardines
Dried small fish, eaten whole, are rich in calcium. They also contain omega-3 fatty acids such as DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid), which are believed to help maintain brain health and thin the blood.
The medicinal properties and health benefits of Japanese pepper
Sansho berries contain many compounds that may have health benefits:
Promotes digestion and appetite
The essential oils contained in Sansho activate the gastrointestinal system and promote the secretion of digestive juices. It is also effective when you have no appetite or feel heavy in the stomach.
Promotes blood circulation and improves sensitivity to cold
The spicy ingredient, sanshool, dilates blood vessels and promotes blood circulation, which can help improve sensitivity to cold and improve metabolism.
Antibacterial and antiseptic effects
Sansho has natural antibacterial properties and is useful for preventing food poisoning, which is one of the reasons why it is also a valuable preserved food.
Relaxing effect
The aromatic components of sansho pepper have a calming effect on the nerves, and are said to reduce stress and have a relaxing effect.
Antioxidant effect
Flavonoids and other ingredients contained in Japanese pepper have antioxidant properties and are expected to have anti-aging effects.
[How to make dried chirimen sansho pepper]
Ingredients (easy to make amount)
Dried small sardines: 80g
Sansho: 50g
Alcohol: 100ml
Light soy sauce: 1.5 tablespoons
Mirin: 1 tablespoon
Sugar: 1/2 tablespoon
1 red chili pepper
How to make it
[Preparing Sansho Pepper Fruit]
1. Wash the sansho berries
Wash the sansho berries thoroughly with water, leaving the stems still attached.
2. Boil
Boil the onions in boiling water over medium heat for 5-6 minutes, until they are soft enough to be crushed with your fingers.
3. Remove the bitterness
Once cooked, cool in cold water and leave in water for 1-2 hours to remove the bitterness. Taste halfway through to check if the bitterness has gone away.
4. Pick the fruit
Drain in a colander and remove the stems. You don't have to remove the stems from the fruit, but if you prefer a more refined finish, leave only the kernels. *If you boiled a large amount, you can dry off the water thoroughly with a paper towel and store in a storage bag in the freezer.
【cooking】
5. Bring the seasonings to a boil
Combine sake, light soy sauce, mirin, and sugar in a pot and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat slightly.
6. Add dried small sardines
Add dried small sardines and deseeded red chili peppers and simmer for about 2 minutes.
7. Add the sansho pepper to finish.
Add the sansho pepper and simmer over the same heat for 5 to 6 minutes until the liquid has almost evaporated from the bottom of the pot.
Storage method and shelf life
Dried chirimen sansho can be stored in the refrigerator for about a week. Store in a clean, airtight container. To enjoy the freshly made aroma for a long time, you can also freeze it in small portions. If frozen, it can be stored for about a month, and can be eaten after thawing naturally or gently warming in the microwave.
summary
Dried chirimen with sansho pepper is an appealing dish that not only allows you to easily enjoy the traditional taste of Kyoto at home, but also promises excellent health benefits. Though made with simple ingredients, its deep flavor and abundant nutrients will enrich your dinner table.
If you happen to have some seasonal sansho pepper in hand, be sure to give this recipe a try. Not only is it delicious, but you can also get some healthy nutrients, such as the blood circulation-boosting effects of sansho pepper and the calcium from dried small sardines. It can also be prepared in advance, making it a great ally in maintaining your health on busy days. Why not incorporate traditional flavors into your modern dining table and start a delicious and healthy diet?