6 Refreshing Ways to Use Umeboshi in Your Summer Meals
With the scorching summer heat upon us, our appetites shift towards lighter and refreshing dishes. One ingredient that perfectly complements the season is umeboshi – a traditional Japanese delicacy made from pickled plums. Bursting with tangy, salty, and slightly sweet flavors, umeboshi adds a unique twist to any summer dish. Whether you're a seasoned umeboshi lover or trying it for the first time, we've curated six delightful ways to incorporate this versatile ingredient into your summer meals.
1. Umeboshi Cucumber Salad:
Create a cool and crisp cucumber salad infused with the bold flavors of umeboshi. Start by thinly slicing cucumbers and gently massaging them with a pinch of salt to draw out excess moisture. Then, dice the umeboshi and toss it with the cucumbers. Drizzle a mixture of rice vinegar, soy sauce, and a touch of rice syrup over the salad for a balance of sweet and sour. Top it off with some toasted sesame seeds or shredded nori for an extra burst of umami. This salad is a perfect side dish for any summer barbecue or a refreshing snack to keep you hydrated during hot days.
2. Umeboshi Rice Balls (Onigiri):
Onigiri, the beloved Japanese rice balls, become even more enticing with the addition of umeboshi. To make these tasty treats, prepare steamed Japanese short-grain rice and let it cool slightly. Wet your hands to prevent sticking, then take a small handful of rice and flatten it in your palm. Place a small piece of umeboshi in the center and mold the rice around it, shaping it into a triangle or round ball. Wrap your onigiri in a sheet of nori (seaweed) for added flavor and a hint of crunch. Umeboshi onigiri makes for an excellent portable and satisfying snack for picnics, beach trips, or any outdoor adventure.
3. Umeboshi Dressing for Salads:
Elevate your summer salads with a zesty umeboshi dressing. In a blender, combine umeboshi paste, fresh lemon juice, rice vinegar, a splash of soy sauce, a dash of rice syrup (or sweetener of your choic), and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Blend until smooth and adjust the flavors to your liking. This tangy and vibrant dressing pairs beautifully with greens, tomatoes, and avocado. Toss it with a mix of fresh veggies and leafy greens for a light and nutritious summer meal bursting with flavors.
4. Umeboshi-Infused Lemonade:
Quench your thirst with a revitalizing umeboshi-infused lemonade. Start by making a simple lemonade by mixing freshly squeezed lemon juice, water, and a touch of rice syrup or sweetener of your choice. Then, add crushed or sliced umeboshi to the mixture and let it steep for a few minutes to infuse its unique taste. Strain the lemonade to remove any solids and serve over ice. The umeboshi adds a delightful twist to the classic lemonade, giving it an exciting sweet and sour dimension that will surely become a favorite summer beverage.
5. Umeboshi and Shiso Sushi Rolls:
Prepare a sushi feast with a delightful combination of umeboshi and shiso leaves. Lay a sheet of nori on a bamboo rolling mat and spread a layer of sushi rice over it. Place umeboshi strips and shiso leaves in the center of the rice, then carefully roll the sushi using the bamboo mat. Slice the roll into bite-sized pieces and serve with pickled ginger, soy sauce, and wasabi. These sushi rolls are a perfect blend of tangy, herbal, and savory flavors, making them a refreshing and satisfying summer meal.
6. Grilled Summer Corn with Umeboshi
Season hot grilled summer corn with umeboshi plum (or paste) by rubbing a light layer over the entire corn cob for a unique sweet and tangy treat!
Umeboshi, with its unique taste and versatility, can be a game-changer in your summer culinary adventures. From adding zing to salads and sushi rolls to infusing lemonades with a refreshing twist, this traditional Japanese ingredient offers a plethora of creative opportunities to elevate your summer meals. Embrace the sweet and sour allure of umeboshi and delight in the delightful symphony of flavors it brings to your table this summer.
So, go ahead and explore these six refreshing ways to incorporate umeboshi into your summer meals, and let your taste buds rejoice in the vibrant harmony of this extraordinary ingredient.
UMEBOSHI RECIPES
Chef Tom's Cool Cucumber Salad >
Sesame Ume Salad Dressing >
Chef Tom California Sushi >
Chef Tom's Onigirazu Sushi Sandwiches >
Summer Grilled Corn with Umeboshi Plum Spread >
