Unnan: A Region Known for Spice Crops
Unnan City is a productive growing area for chili peppers, garlic, and sansho pepper. Each of these ingredients has a distinctive aroma or spicy character that can transform the flavor of a dish, making them particularly well suited to the creation of locally inspired spice products.
One especially distinctive variety is “Orochi no Tsume,” a large chili pepper that grows considerably bigger than the familiar Takanotsume chili. Known as one of Unnan’s signature chili varieties, both its fully ripened red peppers and its green peppers harvested before full ripening are used in processed products.
Ume Piri Salsa: A Lively Blend of Japanese Plum and Chili
One of the signature products of Unnan Spice is “Ume Piri Salsa,” a salsa sauce made by combining plums grown in Unnan with Orochi no Tsume chili peppers.
The fruity character of Japanese plum is combined with the lively heat of chili, creating a sauce with a refreshing acidity and a pleasant spicy kick. By bringing together different local agricultural products, Ume Piri Salsa offers a unique flavor that reflects the character of Unnan.
The Savory Flavor of Green Chili and Garlic
Another signature product is “Green Chili & Garlic,” a rich paste made with plenty of green Orochi no Tsume peppers harvested before they fully ripen, together with garlic.
The paste combines the distinctive heat of green chili with the aromatic and savory character of garlic. Just a small amount can add both spiciness and depth of flavor to a dish. It can be used as an accent for pasta, meat dishes, bread, and many other foods.
Add the Flavors of Unnan to Everyday Cooking
The appeal of Unnan Spice is that you do not need to prepare elaborate dishes to enjoy it. Simply adding a small amount can give familiar everyday foods a new character. Seasonings made with chili heat, aromatic garlic, and refreshing plum acidity each highlight the individual qualities of their local ingredients while expanding the possibilities of home cooking.
Born from Unnan’s agriculture and food culture, Unnan Spice offers a new way to experience the region’s local ingredients. When visiting Unnan, try several of these distinctive products and discover the flavorful spices nurtured by the fertile land of the Chugoku Mountains.