Japan is a country that deeply values the changing seasons, and this respect is clearly reflected in its culinary traditions. Each month brings with it a new array of seasonal foods, meticulously prepared to highlight their peak flavors. September, a transitional month from the humid summer to the cooler autumn, offers a unique variety of foods that celebrate the harvest season. In this blog, we’ll explore some of the most popular and delicious seasonal foods in Japan during September, providing you with a taste of this beautiful time of year.
The Significance of Seasonal Eating in Japan
Before diving into specific foods, it’s essential to understand why seasonal eating is so significant in Japan. The Japanese philosophy of “shun” refers to the peak season of a particular food when it is at its freshest and most flavorful. This concept goes beyond mere culinary preferences; it’s a way of life that aligns with the natural rhythms of the earth. Eating seasonal foods is believed to be healthier and more environmentally friendly. It supports local farmers and reduces the carbon footprint associated with long-distance food transportation.
September’s Seasonal Bounty
September is a month of abundance in Japan, with many fruits, vegetables, and seafood reaching their peak. The following are some of the most celebrated foods you should try if you find yourself in Japan during this time.
1. Matsutake Mushrooms
Matsutake mushrooms are among the most prized seasonal ingredients in Japan, often referred to as the king of autumn flavors. These aromatic mushrooms have a unique, spicy, and pine-like scent, making them a sought-after delicacy. They grow in the wild, typically under pine trees, and their harvest season begins in September and lasts through November.
Matsutake mushrooms are often enjoyed in simple preparations that highlight their distinct flavor. They can be grilled, used in soups, or incorporated into rice dishes such as matsutake gohan, where they are cooked with rice, soy sauce, and sake.
2. Shinmai (New Rice)
September marks the beginning of the shinmai season, the first harvest of the year’s rice crop. Shinmai is highly valued for its moisture content and sweetness, which make it softer and more flavorful than older rice. This freshly harvested rice is often enjoyed in its simplest form to appreciate its pure taste.
Many Japanese households look forward to the arrival of shinmai, and it’s common to see special rice-centric dishes on the menu during this time. One popular way to enjoy shinmai is in onigiri (rice balls), seasoned lightly to let the natural flavor of the rice shine.
3. Kaki (Persimmons)
Persimmons, known as kaki in Japan, start to come into season in September. There are two main varieties of persimmons: hachiya, which are astringent until fully ripe, and fuyu, which are non-astringent and can be eaten while still firm. Both types are enjoyed in various forms, from fresh slices to dried persimmons (hoshigaki).
Persimmons are not only delicious but also rich in vitamins and antioxidants. They are often used in desserts, salads, and even as a topping for yogurt and cereals.
4. Sanma (Pacific Saury)
Sanma, or Pacific saury, is a quintessential autumn fish in Japan, making its appearance in markets and restaurants from late summer through fall. This slender, silver fish is known for its rich, oily flesh, which is perfect for grilling.
Grilled sanma, served with a squeeze of fresh lemon or a dollop of grated daikon radish, is a popular dish during September. The fish is often enjoyed with a bowl of shinmai rice and a side of seasonal vegetables, creating a perfectly balanced and flavorful meal.
5. Nashi (Asian Pears)
Asian pears, known as nashi, are another fruit that comes into season in September. These large, round pears have a crisp texture and a refreshing, juicy flavor. Unlike Western pears, nashi are typically eaten while still firm, making them a perfect snack for warm September days.
Nashi pears are often enjoyed on their own, but they can also be used in salads, desserts, and even as a natural tenderizer in marinades for meat dishes.
More September Delights
Beyond the already mentioned delicacies, there are several other seasonal foods in Japan during September that are worth exploring. These additional ingredients and dishes further exemplify the Japanese dedication to celebrating each season through their cuisine.
6. Edamame (Green Soybeans)
Edamame, or green soybeans, are harvested in late summer and early autumn. These young soybeans are typically boiled or steamed and lightly salted, making for a nutritious and tasty snack. Edamame are often served as an appetizer in Japanese meals and are particularly popular during the cooler evenings of September.
Edamame can also be incorporated into various dishes such as salads, rice bowls, and stir-fries, adding a fresh and slightly nutty flavor.
7. Kabocha (Japanese Pumpkin)
Kabocha, or Japanese pumpkin, is another seasonal vegetable that reaches its peak in September. This winter squash is known for its sweet, nutty flavor and dense, creamy texture. Kabocha is highly versatile and can be used in soups, stews, tempura, and even desserts.
A popular dish during this time is kabocha nimono, where the pumpkin is simmered in a savory-sweet broth of soy sauce, mirin, and dashi. This preparation highlights the natural sweetness of the kabocha and makes for a comforting and nourishing meal.
8. Mackerel (Saba)
Saba, or mackerel, is a fish that is abundant in September. Known for its rich, oily flesh and distinctive flavor, mackerel is a staple in Japanese cuisine. It is often prepared in a variety of ways, including grilling, broiling, and curing.
One classic dish is saba shioyaki, where the mackerel is salted and grilled, often served with a side of grated daikon radish and a wedge of lemon. The simplicity of this dish allows the natural flavor of the fish to shine, making it a favorite among seafood lovers.
9. Grapes (Budou)
Grapes, or budou, are in season during September in Japan, with various varieties available, including Kyoho and Delaware grapes. These grapes are prized for their large size, juicy flesh, and sweet flavor.
Grapes are often enjoyed fresh as a snack or dessert, but they can also be used in making jellies, jams, and even wine. The seasonal abundance of grapes in September provides a refreshing treat that is both healthy and delicious.
10. Chestnuts (Kuri)
Chestnuts, known as kuri, start to appear in markets in September. These nuts are a popular autumn treat and are used in a variety of traditional dishes. Chestnuts are often roasted and enjoyed as a snack, but they are also used in sweets and savory dishes.
One famous dish is kuri gohan, where chestnuts are cooked with rice, creating a subtly sweet and aromatic dish that celebrates the flavors of the season. Kuri kinton, a sweet chestnut paste, is also a traditional dessert enjoyed during autumn festivals.
Embracing Seasonal Desserts
Japanese cuisine is not complete without its seasonal desserts, and September offers a range of sweets that capture the essence of autumn.
11. Momiji Manju
Momiji manju are maple leaf-shaped cakes filled with sweet red bean paste. These treats are especially popular in the Hiroshima region, where they are often enjoyed during autumn excursions to view the changing leaves. The delicate flavor and charming shape of momiji manju make them a delightful snack for both locals and tourists.
12. Sweet Potato (Satsumaimo)
Satsumaimo, or Japanese sweet potatoes, become a beloved treat in September. These sweet potatoes are often roasted and sold by street vendors, emitting a tempting aroma that fills the air. Roasted satsumaimo, with its caramelized exterior and fluffy, sweet interior, is a quintessential autumn snack in Japan.
Sweet potatoes are also used in various desserts, such as sweet potato cakes, pies, and even ice cream, highlighting their versatility and natural sweetness.
Experiencing Tsukimi Foods
In addition to tsukimi dango, there are other traditional foods associated with the Mid-Autumn Festival. One popular dish is tsukimi udon or soba, where a raw egg is placed on top of the hot noodles, resembling the full moon. This simple yet flavorful dish is enjoyed while appreciating the beauty of the moonlit sky.
To fully immerse yourself in the enchanting flavors of Japan’s autumn season, let ASAHI TRAVEL GROUP be your guide. As a premier Destination Management Company (DMC) in Japan, we specialize in creating unforgettable travel experiences that celebrate the country’s rich culinary heritage. From exclusive tastings of matsutake mushrooms to intimate dining experiences featuring freshly harvested shinmai rice, our expertly crafted tours ensure you savor the best of September’s seasonal bounty. Join us for an extraordinary journey that goes beyond sightseeing, offering a deep, authentic taste of Japan’s vibrant food culture. Book your adventure with ASAHI TRAVEL GROUP today, and discover why Japan in September is a food lover’s paradise.
