#Japan #Tokyo #Miyagi Prefecture #Red Horse #Osaka Jam

Unveiling a New Culinary Delight: Premium Jam Made from Local Ingredients

In a remarkable collaboration, Red Horse Corporation, based in Sumida, Tokyo, has joined forces with Salzburg, a specialized creative jam store in Sendai, Miyagi Prefecture, to develop an extraordinary range of premium jams. This initiative not only highlights the local craftsmanship but also aims to tackle regional sustainability issues by making good use of underutilized fruits such as bruised apples and soon-to-be-wasted ripe plums from the town of Ōgawara.

Background of the Collaboration

The inception of this project stemmed from consultations with the representative of the Tsutsumi Plum Garden in Ōgawara, who expressed concerns over the annual disposal of over 500 kg of ripe plums deemed unsuitable for sale. Realizing the potential of these fruits, Red Horse Corporation strategized to purchase these plums, along with substandard apples from neighboring Saito Orchard, to create marketable products that share the unique flavors of the region.

A Fusion of Flavors: The Development of Premium Jams

The newly crafted jams were presented at the '16th Ōgawara Plum Festival' held on June 22. With a focus on emphasizing the pure taste of the local ingredients, the team sought to create an experience marked by 'surprise and discovery'. The creativity of Salzburg proved invaluable, as they specialized in combining primary and secondary ingredients to create innovative flavors.

The collaboration resulted in five distinct jam variations, each carefully crafted to complement various culinary uses. Here are the highlights:

1. Ōgawara Plum Ginger & Rosemary Jam: This jam employs ripe plums to present a unique aromatic experience, blending gentle tartness with ginger’s warm spice and rosemary's refreshing scent for a well-rounded flavor.

Price: ¥1,100
2. Ōgawara Plum Ginger & Cinnamon Jam: A sophisticated combination of plums with fresh ginger and rich cinnamon, this jam offers a depth of flavor ideal for pastries, enhancing both bread and desserts.

Price: ¥1,100
3. Ōgawara Apple Butter: Made with sun-ripened Fuji apples, this luxurious butter preserves the essence of fresh apples mixed with high-quality butter for a creamy delight.

Price: ¥1,050
4. Ōgawara Apple & Hojicha Jam: Marrying sweet apples with the aromatic depth of roasted green tea (hojicha), this jam delivers a calming, traditional taste reminiscent of Japanese sweets.

Price: ¥1,050
5. Ōgawara Apple & Hojicha Butter Jam: Perfect for toast and baked goods, this smooth blend promises a delightful balance of flavors that charm the palate.

Price: ¥1,100

The introduction of these jams garnered enthusiastic feedback from festival visitors, who praised their unique flavors and appreciated the innovative combinations, declaring, 'This is the most delicious jam I've ever tasted!'

A Commitment to Regional Revitalization

Beyond mere product development, Red Horse Corporation is dedicated to revitalizing local economies. They currently collaborate with over 50 municipalities nationwide, implementing over 100 innovative solutions that not only enhance local product lines but also contribute to the branding and marketing efforts within these communities.

Their continued focus on local agricultural elements helps cultivate stories unique to each region while empowering local producers and fostering community bonds. This innovative product development aims to symbolize each locality and reinvigorate interest in regional food cultures, ultimately revitalizing the area and enhancing community spirit.

In essence, through unique products like Ōgawara's premium jams, Red Horse Corporation not only showcases local flavors but also actively plays a role in revitalizing community pride and developing a sustainable agricultural future for the region. Each jar of jam, crafted with care, tells a story of local heritage, ingenuity, and collaborative efforts for a brighter tomorrow.

For more information on this initiative and to purchase the jams, please visit the official website of Red Horse Corporation at https://www.redhorse.co.jp/.