Description
三つ葉 MITSUBA - JAPANESE WILD PARSLEY - Cryptotaenia japonica
Location
Oita
Size/Weight
60 g Each
Texture/Flavor Profile
Mitsuba offers a crisp, slightly crunchy texture with a clean, refreshing taste. It combines hints of celery, parsley, and shiso, giving it a unique and slightly bitter flavor. This delicate balance makes it perfect for adding a subtle, herbaceous note to dishes, enhancing their overall flavor without overpowering them.
Availability/Seasonality
Mitsuba is available year-round, but its peak season is from spring to early summer when the leaves are at their freshest. This perennial herb thrives in shaded, moist areas, making it readily available in cooler months as well. Chefs can enjoy its bright green leaves at any time for an authentic touch to their culinary creations.
About
Scientific Name: Cryptotaenia japonica. Mitsuba, meaning "three leaves" in Japanese, is native to Japan, Korea, and China. It's deeply rooted in Japanese culinary traditions, often seen as a symbol of good luck and used in celebratory dishes. All parts of the plant—leaves, stems, and roots—are edible, making it a versatile addition to various recipes.
Preparation
Mitsuba is best used as a garnish or added just before serving to maintain its delicate flavor and texture. It complements soups, donburi, chawanmushi, and sushi rolls beautifully. For an authentic touch, use the stems in tempura or knot them for an elegant garnish in clear broths, enhancing both the flavor and presentation of dishes.
Nutritional Value
Rich in calcium, vitamin C, and carotene, Mitsuba offers more than just a decorative touch. It's a low-calorie herb that provides essential nutrients and antioxidants, making it a healthful addition to any dish.
Selection and Storage
Choose Mitsuba with bright green, vibrant leaves and firm stems. Avoid wilted or yellowing leaves. Store it wrapped in a damp paper towel inside a sealed plastic bag in the refrigerator to keep it fresh for up to a week. Alternatively, keep it in a jar of water like a bouquet to extend its freshness.
Summary
Mitsuba, with its unique blend of flavors, adds a touch of Japanese authenticity to any dish. This versatile herb elevates soups, salads, and garnishes, offering a crisp texture and fresh taste. Incorporate Mitsuba to introduce an element of tradition, flavor, and nutrition to your culinary creations.
Location
Oita
Size/Weight
60 g Each
Texture/Flavor Profile
Mitsuba offers a crisp, slightly crunchy texture with a clean, refreshing taste. It combines hints of celery, parsley, and shiso, giving it a unique and slightly bitter flavor. This delicate balance makes it perfect for adding a subtle, herbaceous note to dishes, enhancing their overall flavor without overpowering them.
Availability/Seasonality
Mitsuba is available year-round, but its peak season is from spring to early summer when the leaves are at their freshest. This perennial herb thrives in shaded, moist areas, making it readily available in cooler months as well. Chefs can enjoy its bright green leaves at any time for an authentic touch to their culinary creations.
About
Scientific Name: Cryptotaenia japonica. Mitsuba, meaning "three leaves" in Japanese, is native to Japan, Korea, and China. It's deeply rooted in Japanese culinary traditions, often seen as a symbol of good luck and used in celebratory dishes. All parts of the plant—leaves, stems, and roots—are edible, making it a versatile addition to various recipes.
Preparation
Mitsuba is best used as a garnish or added just before serving to maintain its delicate flavor and texture. It complements soups, donburi, chawanmushi, and sushi rolls beautifully. For an authentic touch, use the stems in tempura or knot them for an elegant garnish in clear broths, enhancing both the flavor and presentation of dishes.
Nutritional Value
Rich in calcium, vitamin C, and carotene, Mitsuba offers more than just a decorative touch. It's a low-calorie herb that provides essential nutrients and antioxidants, making it a healthful addition to any dish.
Selection and Storage
Choose Mitsuba with bright green, vibrant leaves and firm stems. Avoid wilted or yellowing leaves. Store it wrapped in a damp paper towel inside a sealed plastic bag in the refrigerator to keep it fresh for up to a week. Alternatively, keep it in a jar of water like a bouquet to extend its freshness.
Summary
Mitsuba, with its unique blend of flavors, adds a touch of Japanese authenticity to any dish. This versatile herb elevates soups, salads, and garnishes, offering a crisp texture and fresh taste. Incorporate Mitsuba to introduce an element of tradition, flavor, and nutrition to your culinary creations.