Tossed Kyo Hatakena with Plum and Dried Young Sardines

Tossed Kyo Hatakena with Plum and Dried Young Sardines

The tender and mild flavor of Kyo Hatakena pairs perfectly with plum-seasoned crispy dried young sardines. It also makes an excellent snack to enjoy with drinks.

Ingredients (Serves 3)

  • Kyo Hatakena … 1 bunch (about 200 g)
  • Chirimen-jako (dried young sardines) … 4 tablespoons (about 20 g)
  • Pickled plum (ume) paste … 1/2 teaspoon
  • Shio-kombu (salted dried kelp strips) … 2 tablespoons (about 10 g)
  • Mirin … 1 teaspoon
  • Vegetable oil … 1 teaspoon
  • Salt … about 1 tablespoon (for boiling)

Directions

  1. (1) Bring a pot of water to boil, add salt, and blanch the Kyo Hatakena for about 30 seconds starting with the stems, then blanch the leaves for another 30 seconds.
  2. (2) Drain in a colander, squeeze out the excess water, and cut into bite-sized pieces.
  3. (3) Heat the oil in a pan and sauté the dried young sardines until crispy.
  4. (4) Combine the shio-kombu, ume paste, and mirin, then toss with the blanched Kyo Hatakena. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
  5. (5) Arrange on a plate and top with the crispy sardines.

※It can also be topped with mayonnaise or nametake (seasoned enoki mushrooms) to taste.