Aso Takana Meshi
Takana meshi mixes warm rice with finely chopped Aso takana pickles stir-fried in oil. Egg, sesame, or nori may be added, and some cooks mix rather than fry the rice itself.
At a glance
| Name | Aso Takana Meshi (Takana Meshi) |
|---|---|
| Prefecture | Kumamoto |
| Region | Kyushu & Okinawa |
| Type | Rice mixed with stir-fried Aso takana pickles |
What is it?
Takana meshi mixes warm rice with finely chopped Aso takana pickles stir-fried in oil. Egg, sesame, or nori may be added, and some cooks mix rather than fry the rice itself.
History and local context
Aso takana has slender stems harvested by hand in spring. Both bright new pickles and amber fermented old pickles exist, with old pickles commonly used for this rice.
How to enjoy it
Taste the pickle before adding seasoning, pair the rice with dago-jiru, and reduce soy sauce when the pickle is already salty.
Availability varies by maker, season, and destination.
Sources and further reading
Frequently asked questions
Where is Aso Takana Meshi from?
It is associated with Kumamoto, in the Kyushu & Okinawa region of Japan.
What kind of food is Aso Takana Meshi?
This guide classifies it as rice mixed with stir-fried aso takana pickles. See the overview for its defining ingredients and texture.
Can I order Aso Takana Meshi online?
Use the Rakuten Japan search link on this page. Confirm the maker, ingredients, storage requirements, and international shipping before ordering.
Order from Japan
Search Rakuten Japan using the original Japanese food name. Search results and product pages may be available only in Japanese.
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