New rice season

October, the season for new rice, is a very important time to gain a deeper understanding of Japanese food culture. New rice is rice that is just harvested in the fall and shipped that same year. It has more moisture than regular rice and is characterized by its fluffy texture and sweetness. During this time, Japanese restaurants and homes offer special opportunities to taste freshly cooked new rice.

The charm of new rice

The best thing about being a newbie is thatFreshnessOnce you've tasted it, you'll never forget its fluffy texture and sweetness. In particular, since the taste and aroma of Japanese rice varies subtly depending on the variety, it's a fun experience to try different kinds of new rice.KoshihikariorAkita Komachi,Love at first sightFamous brand rice such as these also become even more delicious during the new rice season.

Tips for enjoying new rice

Newly harvested rice is delicious enough just to eat as is,OnigiriorJapanese food using riceis also recommended. Even if you simply sprinkle salt on the rice balls, the sweetness and umami of the new rice will stand out and they will be delicious. Also, by eating them with seasonal autumn ingredients, you can enjoy the Japanese seasonal feeling even more. For example, if you eat new rice with pacific saury, matsutake mushrooms, or other mushrooms, you can truly enjoy the "autumn appetite".

Where to buy and experience new rice

In October,Roadside StationorLocal farm shopNew rice is sold at places like these. If you're in Japan, it's a good idea to visit these places, buy some local new rice, and cook it at home. Also, in certain areas, "New Rice Festivals" and harvest festivals are held, and there are an increasing number of events that foreigners can easily participate in. You can enjoy dishes made with new rice and freshly cooked rice, so if you have the opportunity during your trip, be sure to visit them.

New rice dishes popular among foreigners

I would especially recommend the following dish to fully appreciate the flavor of newly harvested rice:Rice cooked in a potorTakikomi gohan (rice cooked with ingredients)Takikomi gohan is a traditional Japanese dish in which chicken, vegetables, mushrooms, etc. are cooked together, and the flavors of the ingredients soak into the rice, making it a flavorful dish. Sushi also becomes a special dish during the new rice season. I would like foreigners visiting Japan to try sushi made with authentic new rice.

More than just a food ingredient, new rice is also a symbol of Japanese food culture, as it allows us to feel the change of seasons. The new rice season, which begins in October, is a great opportunity for foreigners to experience Japan's rich food culture. Once you experience the taste of fresh rice, your view of Japanese rice may change.
If you visit Japan, be sure to enjoy the deliciousness of new rice, which can only be tasted at this time of year!