Hoba Miso
A traditional Hida dish of miso grilled on dried magnolia leaves

About Hoba Miso

In the Hida region, dried magnolia leaves that fall in autumn have long been collected and used as cooking tools.

The magnolia tree is a large deciduous tree with broad leaves that can be found in mountainous regions throughout Japan. These leaves have natural antibacterial properties, which help preserve food and add a pleasant aroma, enhancing the dish's flavor.
One widely accepted origin story suggests that Hoba Miso started with forestry workers in Hida, who used magnolia leaves as makeshift plates to grill miso while working in the mountains.

Hoba Miso (朴葉味噌) is a simple yet flavorful dish where miso mixed with chopped green onions is grilled on a magnolia leaf. It's commonly enjoyed with rice and also makes the perfect accompaniment to sake.
Today, it has evolved into a hallmark of Hida hospitality, often served with premium Hida beef, mushrooms, and other local delicacies.

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