Blessings from abundant nature! ~ Local Specialties of Shiga prefecture~

There are many places in Japan with an abundance of nature. Today, among those places, we turn our attention to the local products of Shiga Prefecture which is situated right beside Kyoto.

Blessed with rich nature, Shiga prefecture has been working tirelessly, ensuring not to destroy that very same nature. Bearing this in mind, let us appreciate the eco-friendly products of Shiga prefecture.

Shiga prefecture produced Omi Rice, Mizukamgami Rice

Price 199 Yen
Mizukagami rice was developed in Shiga Prefecture in 2013. Cultivated as a variety of rice adapted to the changing conditions caused by global warming, the Mizukagami rice is strong against high temperatures and quality is ensured even during years of intense heat. During the growing process of the rice, careful consideration is taken to make sure that pesticides are not used to ensure that contaminated water does not flow out to Lake Biwa. Not only is the production process environmentally friendly, to the delight of consumers such as ourselves, the rice is also delicious even when eaten cold.

After lifting up a little of the vinyl lid, heat up the rice in a microwave. After that, peel off the lid and loosen up the rice inside; the rice should look similar to the picture. The aroma of the rice can already be smelled even when heating it up in the microwave. When you peel off the vinyl lid, you will be met with a face full of that steamy and delicious aroma of the rice. For a rice person such as myself, the moment the aroma hit me, I felt like I was in heaven♪ The Mizukagami rice has a strong aroma. Also, on top of having the right amount of moisture, it is soft and easy to chew. In addition, you can savor every single grain of rice on your tongue and while chewing, the rice gives off a tender sweetness, making it delectable.

Simmered Omi Beef

Price 1300 Yen (Tax Incl.)
Omigyu is the name used for the Kuroge Wagyu breed bred in Shiga Prefecture for the longest time, it is considered to be one of the three most prized wagyu in Japan. In addition simmered dishes, refer to dished that have been simmered with sugar and soy sauce, for added sweetness, and ginger.

Inside the box packaging is a pouch containing the simmered beef.

After emptying the contents onto a plate, heat it in the microwave. The beef has soaked up the flavor of the soy sauce and sugar, making it really delicious! The taste is very similar to that of sukiyaki. The beef is really soft and juicy, and the moment you chew into it a wave of Umami bursts forth. The chopped ginger also accentuates the flavor and the texture of the dish.

I paired my Simmered Omi Beef with the Mizukagami Rice. Both complemented each other and I was thoroughly satisfied with my meal.

［Bonus］Hikonyan colored chopsticks（Big）Black

Price 464 Yen（Tax Incl.）
Hikonyan is a mascot character from Shiga Prefecture. In 2010, Hikonyan won the yuru character grand prix and continues to be a popular mascot character. The very same Hikonyan is printed on chopsticks and sold at souvenir shops in Shiga prefecture.

The ends of the chopstick has Hikonyan printed on them, while the tips are processed to make them non-slip. When I tried the Hikonyan chopsticks while eating, I noticed it was much more difficult for my food to slip compared to when I used normal chopsticks, making them easy to use.

This ends my introduction of Shiga prefecture’s local specialties. Each product is of a high quality, so when you do come to Japan, please buy some to try.

Written by yui