#Japan #Tokyo #Cassolo #Chef's Value #Shintomi

An Evening of Culinary Excellence: "Taste of Shintomi Produced by Cassolo Vol.2"

On August 3, 2023, the vibrant city of Tokyo played host to the highly successful event "Taste of Shintomi Produced by Cassolo Vol.2," organized by Chef’s value in collaboration with the Koyu Regional Development Promotion Organization. Held at Cassolo restaurant in the bustling Toranomon area, the event attracted 31 participants, exceeding the planned capacity of 25.

The evening was centered around the theme of "new rice," showcasing the fresh harvest from Shintomi, a notable provider of early rice in Japan. Chef Yoshinori Fukuzaki, acclaimed for winning MVP at the recent "NEXT TABLE Vol.2" event, curated a special menu consisting of five dishes prepared with local ingredients. This limited-time dining experience allowed attendees to savor the unique flavors of Shintomi through exquisite cuisine crafted by talented chefs.

The five-course meal beautifully integrated the new rice theme. Each dish highlighted the organic rice produced by the local farmers, demonstrating the versatility and quality of the region's agriculture. Joining in the festivities, the popular local rice ball vendor, "Organic Farm ZERO," provided freshly made rice balls, impressing guests with their warmth and aroma.

Among the attendees were Shintomi's mayor, local business representatives, media personnel, and individuals enthusiastic about regional food and culture. The event buzzed with a spirited atmosphere as participants exchanged insights about the local produce and culinary traditions.

Event Highlights

1. Course Overview
The five expertly crafted dishes featured a blend of flavors, utilizing the celebrated ingredients of New Shintomi rice:
- Tartar of Fresh Fish: Whiting fish tartare served with aromatic basil pesto and crispy rice.
- Burnt Rice Risotto with Crab: A crunchy and flavorful risotto topped with shredded crab, culminating in a clear consomme.
- Roasted Wagyu Sirloin: Premium Japanese black beef served with summer vegetables, sweet corn sauce, and Madeira sauce enhanced by a touch of rice porridge.
- Organic Rice Balls: A minimalist approach with lightly salted rice balls and a popular turnip cream cheese combo, offering participants both taste and connection to local agriculture.
- Traditional Rice Dessert: A classic French dish, "Riole," paired with tropical fruits like mango and pineapple to provide refreshing accents.

2. Engagement and Networking
The event encouraged lively discussions between guests and producers, enhancing the experience of savoring local delicacies while establishing valuable connections.

About Shintomi Town

Shintomi Town, located approximately 30 minutes north of Miyazaki Airport, is known for its thriving agricultural scene. With a population of around 16,000, it produces a variety of seasonal crops year-round. Recently, Shintomi also advanced its sports infrastructure by opening the new Shintomi Football Center in April 2023. The town remains committed to community-building initiatives that leverage local agriculture and sports.

Testimonials from Attendees

Guests praised the dishes, emphasizing the delightful taste of the rice and the quality of the ingredients:

• - "Every dish highlighted the original flavors of the ingredients—simply delicious!"
• - "It was educational to immerse in Shintomi's rich culinary offerings."
• - "An extraordinary event showcasing great food and a wonderful atmosphere!"

Mayor Takashi Kojima expressed his joy in reintroducing Shintomi’s culinary treasures, emphasizing the importance of these opportunities in strengthening community ties. Organic Farm ZERO's representative echoed this sentiment, expressing gratitude for the support and connection brought by events such as this, vital for sustainable agriculture.

Conclusion

The "Taste of Shintomi Produced by Cassolo Vol.2" event successfully showcased the region's unique flavors and culinary expertise, further highlighting the importance of community connections and support for local producers. As Chef’s value continues to champion culinary excellence and regional specialties, anticipation builds for future gatherings that celebrate the fusion of gastronomy and locality.