Introduction

Nanohana is a seasonal vegetable that is available in markets from autumn to spring, and is especially fresh and delicious in early spring. From March onwards, the price drops and it becomes easier to obtain

In this article, we'll introduce you to the best season for rapeseed flowers, how to choose them, their nutritional value, and delicious ways to eat them. Enjoy the taste of spring with dishes using rapeseed flowers

When is rapeseed blossom season and how to choose it?

Rape blossoms are available from autumn to spring, but are especially known as an early spring vegetable. Prices drop from March onwards, making them easier to find. When selecting them, look for ones that are tied together, have fresh cut ends, thin stems, and have not yet opened flowers. The buds bloom in 2-3 days, so it is best to use them up as soon as possible. To maintain freshness, wrap them in wet paper, place them in a plastic bag, and store them in the refrigerator

Nutritional value of rapeseed

Rape blossoms are rich in carotene, and contain vitamins B1, B2, and C, as well as iron and calcium. They are packed with nutrients that are good for your health, so we recommend eating them as much as possible

Delicious ways to eat rape blossoms

There are many delicious ways to enjoy rape blossoms. First, remove the tough stems and boil them, then use them in boiled greens, salads, stir-fries, etc. Recently, they have also become popular as Western-style hors d'oeuvres

In particular, hors d'oeuvres made with rape blossoms are delicious and beautiful to look at. If you soak them in water for a few hours, as shown in the photo, the leaves will stretch out and stay fresh when served

Try these recipes using rape blossoms and enjoy the deliciousness of spring

Spicy rape blossoms

Ingredients (serves 4)

• rape blossoms
• 1 tablespoon beaten mustard
• Salt, light soy sauce, sake

1. Cut off the tough part at the base of the rape blossoms and wash them thoroughly in water
2. Bring plenty of boiling water to a boil in a large pot, add a little salt, and boil the rapeseed flowers in 3 or 4 batches
3. Once cooked, immediately place under running water, squeeze out the water and cut into 2cm lengths
4. Add the melted mustard greens, 2 tablespoons of light soy sauce, and 1 tablespoon of sake to a bowl and mix
5. Squeeze the water out of the rapeseed flowers once more, add them to the prepared bowl, mix roughly and serve on a plate

You can also add mustard to taste and mix it with the rape blossoms for a delicious dish

Rape blossoms marinated in kelp

Ingredients (serves 4)

• rape blossoms
• 2 pieces of kelp (approximately 10cm long)
• Oboro Konbu
• seasoning with sake

1. Wash the rape blossoms, cut off the roots, quickly boil them in hot water, then transfer them to cold water and squeeze out the water
2. Lightly wipe the kelp with a wet cloth and sprinkle with 2 tablespoons of sake to rehydrate
3. Place the rape blossoms between two pieces of kelp, sprinkle lightly with salt, place a weight on top and leave for 2-3 hours to allow the flavors to blend
4. Cut the rape blossoms into bite-sized pieces, arrange them in a bowl, and top with oboro konbu
5. Add light soy sauce to taste and it's done

Try these recipes to enjoy the new deliciousness of rape blossoms: spicy dressing and kombu-jime. Enjoy the elegant flavor of rape blossoms in a new way

summary

Rape blossoms are a delicious vegetable that heralds the arrival of spring and are highly nutritious. Get them when they're in season and use them in a variety of dishes. Be sure to store them carefully to maintain freshness, and enjoy delicious rape blossom dishes

Introducing our special recipes for epi recipes

Olive oil stewed

By making as thin cuts as possible into the Kariruya eggplant, the juices are soaked in a generous amount of flavor and it's delicious.

Olive oil stewed

By making as thin cuts as possible into the Kariruya eggplant, the juices are soaked in a generous amount of flavor and it's delicious.

Olive oil stewed

By making as thin cuts as possible into the Kariruya eggplant, the juices are soaked in a generous amount of flavor and it's delicious.

Olive oil stewed

By making as thin cuts as possible into the Kariruya eggplant, the juices are soaked in a generous amount of flavor and it's delicious.

Olive oil stewed

By making as thin cuts as possible into the Kariruya eggplant, the juices are soaked in a generous amount of flavor and it's delicious.

Olive oil stewed

By making as thin cuts as possible into the Kariruya eggplant, the juices are soaked in a generous amount of flavor and it's delicious.

Olive oil stewed

By making as thin cuts as possible into the Kariruya eggplant, the juices are soaked in a generous amount of flavor and it's delicious.