As Autumn begins, the weather cools, bringing a variety of delicious seasonal foods. Autumn events like the “Harvest Moon” and “Double Ninth Festival” celebrate this time of abundance, often called “the season of hearty appetites.” It’s a time when many ingredients are at their best.
Here are some seasonal foods to enjoy in Autumn, along with tips on choosing and preparing them.
Fish in Season
Bonito (Katsuo):
Katsuo is in season in both spring and autumn. Autumn katsuo, called “modori katsuo,” is rich and fatty. It’s best enjoyed as sashimi, with its deep flavor shining through. Look for bright red bloodlines and translucent red flesh to ensure freshness.
Pacific Saury (Sanma):
A popular autumn fish, sanma is rich in healthy fats like DHA and EPA. It’s delicious grilled with salt or as sashimi. Choose plump fish with clear, bright eyes and a firm belly for the freshest catch.
Authentic Kochi Straw-Grilled Bonito Tataki – Various Sizes
Sanma Kabayaki Canned – 100g x 30 Cans
Enjoy 30 cans of delicious Sanma kabayaki, perfect f...
Vegetables & Mushrooms
Pumpkin:
Often associated with winter, pumpkin is actually in season from summer to autumn. It’s rich in beta-carotene, vitamin C, and vitamin E, which help boost immunity. Choose heavy, dark green pumpkins with a cork-like stem.
Moist Pumpkin Cheesecake – Azure Yard
Indulge in the natural sweetness of pumpkin with thi...
Taro (Satoimo):
This root vegetable, known for its slimy texture, is great in simmered dishes. It’s low in calories and helps regulate blood sugar. Fresh taro should have slightly moist skin with clear stripes.
Maitake Mushrooms:
These “dancing mushrooms” are now widely available and packed with vitamin D, B vitamins, and zinc. They work well in soups or rice dishes. Pick mushrooms with firm, thick caps and a glossy appearance.
Yamagata Specialty Dotsuke Taro – 5kg
Enjoy 5kg of Yamagata’s famous Dotsuke taro, perfect...
Black Maitake Mushroom “”Shin”” –...
Enjoy 1kg of high-quality black Maitake mushrooms, p...
Fruits in Season
Kyoho & Pione Grapes:
Kyoho & Pione Grapes: These large, juicy grapes are perfect in September. They’re packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and natural sweetness. Choose grapes with firm skin and green stems for the best quality.
Chestnuts:
Chestnuts, a classic autumn treat, are at their best in September. Unlike vegetables, chestnuts are a fruit that grows on trees. They’ve been a part of Japanese cuisine for centuries, with many found at Jomon period archaeological sites. Chestnuts are versatile and can be enjoyed in dishes like chestnut rice or as sweet treats like candied chestnuts. Perfect for savoring the flavors of fall!
Tianjin Sweet Chestnuts & Miso Flavored Peanuts – Ki...
Enjoy the gentle sweetness of Tianjin sweet chestnut...
Kurikinton – Winner of Monde Selection Gold Award for 3 C...
Enjoy the luxurious taste of Kurikinton, made only f...