| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 20 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 324 | 1g | 0g | 72g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 10g | 2g | 6g | 0.4g |
While scrolling through personal recipe archives, an old favorite stood out which inspires a wave of delicate nostalgia mixed with a hint of Eastern intrigue – the Japanese Plum Rice (Sumeshi). This dish, while not traditionally Southern, has found a way to charm its way into the dish rotation for family gatherings and coastal dinners with its unique blend of Asian flavors and comforting simplicity. The Sumeshi highlights the “Southern hospitality” of inviting global cuisine into our kitchens and dining tables.
The Charm of Japanese Plum Rice (Sumeshi)
The Japanese Plum Rice, also known as Sumeshi, is a dish that brings a delightful juxtaposition of savory and sweet flavors, accented by the tartness of the umeboshi plums. The short-grain sushi rice provides a velvety texture that draws forth memories of Sunday dinners and warm biscuits, while the Japanese plums infuse a uniquely Asian flair, similar to the coastal seafood influences in many Southern dishes.
Complementing Dishes and Health Benefits
The Sumeshi pairs well with a wide array of foods, fitting splendidly with both Western and Asian inspired dishes. For a Southern-Asian fusion, serving it along a tangy barbecue chicken would balance the savoriness of the barbecue sauce, reminding one of home, while venturing into new culinary territories. Alternatively, it could be paired with Miso Glazed Eggplant for a wholly Asian experience.
Not only does this recipe delight the palate, but also serves various health benefits. The Japanese plums used in the Sumeshi recipe are a great source of Vitamins C and E, aiding in boosting the immune system and improving skin health. Furthermore, these plums are known for their probiotic nature, promoting gut health and aiding digestion, making it a delightful dish that marries taste and nutrition seamlessly.
While the Japanese Plum Rice may seem far-removed from the classic Southern comfort foods, its ability to blend the avant-garde with familiar homely tastes results in a versatile dish that bears a hint of the exotic while still evoking the warmth of home – an essential trait that inspires love for it in kitchens across the coast and beyond.
What You’ll Need
- 3 cups short-grain sushi rice
- 2 1/2 cups water
- 6 Japanese plums (Umeboshi)
- 1/3 cup rice vinegar
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
Method
Step One
Start by washing the sushi rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes any excess starch and helps to make the rice the proper texture.
Step Two
Next, add the washed rice and the water to a heavy-bottomed pot. Bring the water to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for approximately 20 minutes, or until all the water has been absorbed by the rice.
Step Three
While the rice is cooking, prepare the sushi vinegar mixture. In a small saucepan, combine the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. Warm the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar and salt are completely dissolved.
Step Four
Once the rice is done, transfer it to a large bowl and evenly pour the sushi vinegar mixture over it, while gently folding it into the rice with a rice paddle or a spatula. Be careful not to break or mash the rice grains. Then, allow the rice to cool to room temperature.
Step Five
Meanwhile, remove the pits from the Umeboshi plums and mince them. Once the rice has cooled, gently fold the minced plums into the rice.
Step Six
The Japanese Plum Rice is now ready to be served. Enjoy it as is, or use it to make sushi or onigiri. Remember to wet your hands when handling the rice to prevent it from sticking.
