Usuki Ohan and Kayaku
At a glance
| Name | Usuki Ohan and Kayaku (Ohan) |
|---|---|
| Prefecture | Oita |
| Region | Kyushu & Okinawa |
| Type | Gardenia-yellow rice served with white-fish and root-vegetable stew |
What is it?
Ohan colors plain rice a clear yellow with strained gardenia-fruit water and serves it beside kayaku, a savory stew of lizardfish or other white fish, tofu, daikon and burdock.
History and local context
The pairing belongs to Usuki's New Year and celebration table and is often said to have replaced costly red rice during domain austerity. A possible connection with European yellow rice through Christian-era Usuki is intriguing but unproven, not evidence that it is paella.
How to enjoy it
Alternate the lightly scented rice with spoonfuls of kayaku so the fish and roots season each bite. Use only food-grade gardenia, strain it well, cook fish thoroughly and check fish, soy and wheat seasonings.
Availability varies by maker, season, and destination.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Usuki Ohan and Kayaku from?
It is associated with Oita, in the Kyushu & Okinawa region of Japan.
What kind of food is Usuki Ohan and Kayaku?
This guide classifies it as gardenia-yellow rice served with white-fish and root-vegetable stew. See the overview for its defining ingredients and texture.
Can I order Usuki Ohan and Kayaku 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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