Hiyajiru
A timeless delicacy from Yonezawa’s castle town – savor the seasonal blessings of Yamagata’s “Hiyajiru”

About Hiyajiru

Hiyajiru (冷や汁, Hiyajiru) is a traditional dish from Yonezawa City in Yamagata Prefecture, consisting of chilled dashi broth paired with seasonal vegetables. Its origin dates back to the Sengoku period, with theories suggesting it was a meal prepared for the military camp of feudal lord Uesugi Kenshin or influenced by the “one soup and one dish” food culture encouraged by Uesugi Youzan. To this day, this refreshing dish is cherished both at celebratory events and on everyday dining tables, symbolizing the region’s rich traditions and natural bounty.

The primary ingredients of Hiyajiru include mizuna (snow greens), spinach, cabbage, dried scallops, and frozen konjac. Packed with vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, these components make the dish highly nutritious. Mizuna, in particular, is a winter vegetable resilient to the cold, and its cultivation was historically promoted by Uesugi Youzan. Its crisp texture and unique flavor lend a delightful accent to the dish.

Simple to prepare, Hiyajiru boasts a depth of flavor as the essence of its ingredients shines through the chilled dashi. By incorporating seasonal vegetables such as spring cabbage and nanohana, autumn chrysanthemums, and winter snow greens, the dish can be enjoyed year-round with a taste of each season. In the Yonezawa region, it often graces special occasions like weddings and New Year celebrations, making it an indispensable part of traditional festivities.

Pairing Hiyajiru with sake from Yamagata Prefecture elevates the dining experience. Light and fruity ginjo sake complements the dish’s refreshing flavors beautifully, while junmai sake, known for its rice-forward richness, enhances the meal’s overall depth.

When visiting Yamagata, be sure to try Hiyajiru, crafted with fresh local vegetables and traditional techniques. This humble yet deeply flavorful dish offers a window into the region’s history and culture, leaving you with a taste of its heartfelt hospitality.