Musou Jiru (Bamboo Shoot Soup)

Musou Jiru (Bamboo Shoot Soup) introduction

Musou Jiru (孟宗汁, Bamboo Shoot Soup) is a traditional springtime dish from the Shonai region of Yamagata Prefecture, made with tender bamboo shoots from the Mosochiku bamboo and served in a miso-based broth. The Mosochiku bamboo was introduced to Japan from China via the Satsuma Domain in 1736 and eventually spread across the country. In the Shonai area, the bamboo was brought back by mountain ascetics traveling on merchant ships from Kyoto and planted around local temples and shrines. One particular delicacy, the “Yutagawa Mosou,” is harvested near Yutagawa Onsen in Tsuruoka City. These bamboo shoots are prized for their pale, tender texture and natural sweetness, thanks to the clay-rich red soil that nurtures their growth. The key ingredients of Musou Jiru include freshly harvested bamboo shoots, atsuage (fried tofu; called "abura-age" locally in Shonai), shiitake mushrooms, and pork, all brought together with a flavorful blend of miso and sake lees. Fresh bamboo shoots have little bitterness, requiring no pre-soaking, and allow the natural flavors to shine through. Nutritionally, bamboo shoots are low in calories and rich in fiber, while pork provides high-quality protein, and shiitake mushrooms are an excellent source of vitamin D, making this both a delicious and wholesome dish. A crisp, dry Japanese sake pairs beautifully with this soup, enhancing the sweetness of the bamboo shoots and the richness of the sake lees. Every year, from late April to early June, the Yutagawa Onsen area hosts the "Musou Festival," where visitors can enjoy a variety of bamboo shoot dishes prepared by local inns. Additionally, Musou Jiru is featured at spring festivals, such as the "Sakata Festival" and the "Tsuruoka Tenjin Festival" in May, as a culinary celebration of the season. When visiting Shonai in the spring, don’t miss the chance to experience the seasonal delight of Musou Jiru.

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• NameMusou Jiru (Bamboo Shoot Soup)
• Area Yamagata
• Kind of food Local cuisine

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