#Japan #Fukushima #White Asparagus #Aizu Asparagus

Fresh Asparagus from Aizu: A Flavorful Spring Delight

The arrival of spring brings with it a culinary gem from the Aizu region in Fukushima Prefecture: delicious and tender asparagus. Managed by Space One Inc., a major online marketplace for Fukushima products, Fukurisha Ichiba has announced that they are now featuring fresh Aizu asparagus grown in the city of Kitakata. Notably, for the first time this year, they are also offering the rare white asparagus variety typically scarce in general markets.

Unique Qualities of Aizu Asparagus

• - Size and Texture: The spring shoot asparagus is notably thick and has a satisfying bite.
• - Flavor: There’s a wonderful combination of sweetness and tenderness, creating a rich taste profile.
• - Freshness: Harvested in the morning, these asparagus spears boast exceptional freshness that enhances their quality.

The Aizu region, known for its significant temperature variation between day and night and abundant water sources, contributes to around 90% of the asparagus production in Fukushima Prefecture. This unique climate and environment foster an asparagus that is sweet, juicy, and has a tender texture. Particularly, the “haru-me” or spring sprouts harvested from April to May are sought after for their thickness and sweetness, marking them as the prime picking season of the year.

Aizu Kitakata Asparagus Pricing

1. Green Asparagus:
- L: 1kg for 6,290 yen (tax included, shipping included)
- 2L: 1kg for 6,580 yen (tax included, shipping included)
- 3L: 1kg for 7,300 yen (tax included, shipping included)

2. Rare White Asparagus:
- L: 1kg for 6,430 yen (tax included, shipping included)
- 2L: 1kg for 6,720 yen (tax included, shipping included)
- 3L: 1kg for 7,440 yen (tax included, shipping included)

You can purchase these delightful products directly from Fukuichi Ichiba for green asparagus and here for white asparagus.

The Charm of Aizu Vegetables

The Aizu region not only produces high-quality asparagus, but it is also famous for various vegetables cultivated in its fertile land. The geographical characteristics, being surrounded by mountains, create a basin with significant temperature differences between day and night, perfect for vegetable growth. The warmth of the sun during the day helps the plants absorb nutrients, which they store overnight, leading to richer, sweeter vegetables.

Furthermore, the region's snowmelt water and fertile soil ensure that crops are not only flavorful but also juicy and tender. Freshly picked in the cool mornings, Aizu’s vegetables like asparagus maintain their crispness and flavor, offering an enriched taste experience.

Cooking with Aizu Asparagus

Freshly harvested Aizu asparagus is ideal for various culinary creations. Its natural sweetness stands out, allowing you to enjoy it boiled or cooked in diverse recipes that enhance its flavor.

Simple Yet Delicious White Asparagus with Butter (Serves 2)

Ingredients:

• - White asparagus: 4-6 stalks
• - Butter: 10g
• - Salt: a pinch
• - Black pepper: a pinch
• - Lemon juice (optional): a little
• - Chopped parsley: to taste

Instructions:
1. Trim the bottom 2-3 cm of the asparagus and peel the lower third.
2. Boil water in a pot, adding a pinch of salt.
3. Place the asparagus in the pot, starting with the thicker ends first.
4. Cook on medium-low heat for 5-8 minutes until tender.
5. Drain and pat dry.
6. In a frying pan, melt butter over medium heat, adding the asparagus to sauté until golden brown.
7. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and parsley, and a squeeze of lemon if desired before serving.

Tender Asparagus wrapped in Pork Belly (Serves 2)

Ingredients:

• - Asparagus: 6 stalks
• - Thinly sliced pork belly: 150-180g (about 6 slices)
• - Salt and pepper: to taste
• - Salad oil: 1 teaspoon

Instructions:
1. Wrap the pork belly around each asparagus stalk.
2. Heat oil in a frying pan and place the wrapped asparagus seam-side down.
3. Cook on medium heat for 4-5 minutes, rolling occasionally until fully browned and cooked through.
4. Season with salt and pepper before serving.

About Fukuichi Ichiba

Fukuichi Ichiba is the largest online shop offering around 850 products from approximately 300 producers within Fukushima Prefecture. It showcases handmade treasures and lovingly crafted goods, available directly from the producers. Explore the richness of Fukushima's local offerings and enjoy these exceptional products today at Fukuichi Ichiba.