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A Limited-Time Culinary Gem: Tsunagi Kohaku Onions

In the heart of Kumamoto Prefecture, a unique brand of new onions is capturing attention this spring. Known as Tsunagi Kohaku Onions, these exceptional vegetables are exclusively available for just two months a year. Their remarkable sweetness and juiciness set them apart, making them perfect to consume fresh without soaking in water.

Why Tsunagi Kohaku Onions Stand Out

Tsunagi Kohaku Onions have been cultivated using an innovative method called multi-cultivation, which minimizes their exposure to sunlight. This results in a pronounced sweetness with hardly any sharpness. The absence of strong pungent flavors allows even children to enjoy these onions raw, making them a great addition to salads without needing any soaking. By skipping the soaking step, eaters can retain all the beneficial compounds often lost in traditional onions, including those that promote healthy blood circulation and skin.

The Rare Cultivation Process

What makes Tsunagi Kohaku Onions even more special is their rarity. The variety known as Hamaik is notoriously difficult to cultivate due to its vulnerability to disease. However, with careful farming practices and an emphasis on maintaining optimal soil quality—thanks to the use of original blends of sake lees fertilizer—these onions thrive. The refreshing sea breeze from the Shiranui Sea further enhances their flavor, resulting in onions that are not just sweet but also full of savory depth.

Limited-Edition Morning Harvest

For those seeking the crème de la crème of Tsunagi Kohaku Onions, look no further than the Morning Harvest. This special grade of onions is harvested within the brief two-hour window before sunrise. By protecting the onions from sunlight, they retain a higher moisture content and sweetness compared to their regular counterparts, making them exceedingly desirable among culinary aficionados.

Cooking with Tsunagi Kohaku Onions

These versatile onions shine in a variety of dishes. Whether you enjoy them raw or cooked, they deliver exceptional flavor and nutrition. Here are a couple of easy recipes to highlight their unique taste:

Whole Onion Soup

Ingredients (Serves 2)

• - 2 Tsunagi Kohaku Onions
• - 2 slices of bacon
• - 1 tablespoon olive oil
• - 400cc water
• - Salt and consomme to taste
• - Parsley and grated cheese for garnish

Directions:

1. Make a cross incision on the root ends of the onions, place them in a heat-resistant dish, cover with plastic wrap, and microwave for 6 minutes at 600W.
2. In a pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced bacon and sauté until crispy. Add water, consomme, and salt to bring to a boil.
3. Add the onions to the pot, cover, and simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes.
4. Adjust seasoning and serve in bowls, garnished with parsley and grated cheese.

Grilled Onion in Soy Sauce Marinade

Ingredients (Serves 2)

• - 1 Tsunagi Kohaku Onion
• - Chili pepper (to taste)
• - 3 tablespoons sugar, vinegar, soy sauce
• - 100cc water
• - 1/4 teaspoon granulated soup stock

Directions:

1. Cut the onion into eighths and chop garlic finely.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a frying pan, place the onions cut side down, cover, and steam them over medium-high heat for about 2 minutes. Flip the onions and steam for another 2 minutes.
3. Mix all marinade ingredients with the chili in a dish, add the onions, and mix well. Refrigerate and let marinate overnight.

Commitment to Quality and Sustainable Practices

The producers behind Tsunagi Kohaku Onions, represented by Naoya Hayashida, emphasize sustainability in their farming practices. Rather than resorting to harmful pesticides or chemical fertilizers for mass production, they are dedicated to preserving Kumamoto's natural agricultural heritage. Their goal is to provide safe, delicious onions while ensuring that these exceptional varieties are cultivated for generations to come.

So, if you’re in search of a delicious and nutrient-rich addition to your meals, don’t miss your chance to try Tsunagi Kohaku Onions this spring. For those interested in purchasing, you can find options such as Tsugu Kohaku Onions (5kg) and Morning Harvest Tsunagi Kohaku Onions (5kg) available online.

For more information on these products and to explore a range of unique offerings, visit Imikoto Marche.

About the Company

TeN Co., Ltd., based in Shibuya, Tokyo, is committed to the promotion of high-quality food products and services. They not only operate the Imikoto Marche online shop but also specialize in web marketing, garment production, and various SaaS solutions. Their dedication to quality and sustainable practices defines their brand and mission.