Healthy recipes①
Also effective against summer fatigue!
~Make Kyoto's traditional flavor "Chirimen Sansho" at home~
Introduction
Dried chirimen with sansho pepper is one of Kyoto's most famous local dishes. The exquisite combination of dried small sardines and fragrant Japanese pepper is Not only does it produce an unforgettable, elegant taste, It is an ideal dish that also offers excellent health benefits.
Sansho berries are a familiar sight in early summer, Its refreshing aroma and unique numbing spiciness This has been passed down as wisdom for surviving Kyoto's hot and humid summers.
Sansho has also been known to have medicinal properties since ancient times. It was also valued for its appetite-boosting and digestive benefits. This is one of the reasons why this dish continues to be so popular.
Key points for selecting materials
How to choose dried small sardines
High-quality dried small sardines are transparent and have plump flesh. Choose one that is not too salty and does not have a fishy smell.
About Sansho
Sansho berries are a precious ingredient that is only available for a short period around June. Choose ones that are bright green and have uniform grains. It can also be frozen, so it is recommended to buy it in bulk during the season and store it.
Sansho contains a substance called "sanshool." This is the source of its unique numbing spiciness. This ingredient is said to have the effect of improving blood circulation and increasing metabolism.
The nutritional value and excellent health benefits of dried sansho pepper
The nutritional benefits of dried small sardines
Dried sardines are small fish that are eaten whole, so they are rich in calcium. In addition, DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) It also contains omega-3 fatty acids, which can help maintain brain health and keep the blood flowing smoothly.
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 oil components contained in Japanese pepper activate the gastrointestinal system and promote the secretion of digestive juices.
It is also effective when you have no appetite or when you have an upset stomach.
Promotes blood circulation and improves sensitivity to cold
The spicy ingredient, sanshool, dilates blood vessels and improves blood circulation.
This is expected to improve cold sensitivity and metabolism.
Antibacterial and antiseptic effects
Sansho has natural antibacterial properties and is useful in preventing food poisoning.
This is one of the reasons why it is also a valuable preserved food.
Relaxing effect
The aromatic components of Sansho have a calming effect on the nerves.
It is also said to reduce stress and have a relaxing effect.
Antioxidant effect
Flavonoids and other ingredients contained in Japanese pepper have antioxidant properties.
It is also 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]
-
Wash the sansho berries
Wash the sansho berries thoroughly with water, leaving the stems still attached. -
boil
Boil the onions in boiling water over medium heat for 5 to 6 minutes with the stems still attached. Boil until soft enough to crush with your fingers. -
Remove bitterness
Once cooked, cool in cold water and soak in water for 1-2 hours to remove the bitterness. Taste it halfway through to see if the bitterness has gone away. -
pick fruit
Drain in a colander and remove the stems. You don't have to remove the stems from the fruit, If you prefer a more refined finish, use only the grains.
※If you boiled a lot, thoroughly wipe off the water with a paper towel. You can store it in a storage bag and freeze it.
【cooking】
-
Boil the seasonings
Combine sake, light soy sauce, mirin, and sugar in a pot and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat slightly. -
Add dried small sardines
Add dried small sardines and deseeded red chili peppers and simmer for about 2 minutes. -
Add the sansho pepper to finish.
Add the sansho pepper and cook over the same heat until the liquid at the bottom of the pot is almost gone. Simmer for 5 to 6 minutes and it's done.
Storage method and shelf life
Dried chirimen sansho pepper can be stored in the refrigerator for about a week. Store in a clean, airtight container. To enjoy the fresh aroma for a long time, you can divide it into portions and freeze it. If frozen, it can be stored for about a month, and can be enjoyed after thawing naturally or warming lightly in the microwave.
summary
Chirimen Sansho not only allows you to easily enjoy the traditional taste of Kyoto at home, It's an appealing dish that also promises excellent health benefits. Although it is made from simple ingredients, it has a deep flavor and is rich in nutrients. It will add color to your dining table.
If you have some seasonal sansho pepper in hand, be sure to try this recipe. Not only is it delicious, but it also has the blood circulation-promoting effect of sansho pepper and calcium from dried small sardines. You can also get nutrients that are good for your body at the same time. 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?